A year ago IowaSecularist.org went live with little more going for it than some big ideas and a very small handful of committed members. Today, our community has grown considerably and continues to grow. The vision of that small ground-breaking group is starting to come to fruition! For the Iowa Secularists, 2004 was marked by exciting growth, a renewed commitment to our mission and a more refined organizational focus. Our second year promises to be just as rewarding if not more so. Here’s what we have planned for 2005:

• Make the resources of IS available to more Iowans
  In March we will launch an informational campaign to let people know who we are and what we do. We will also continue to inform our family, friends and neighbors about our group through word-of-mouth.
• Create connections between secular organizations in Iowa
  We will meet with other secular groups in Iowa to offer the resources of the Iowa Secularists to help develop their local organizations. This will create a much needed communication path for our groups and strengthen our effectiveness.
• Lobby the state government on relevant legislation
  We will register a lobbyist and use our Statehouse connections to make our voices heard when the separation of church and state is on the line. We will also inform you when important legislation is pending and let you know how you can take action.
• Be known as an advocate for the secular viewpoint in Iowa
  We will make the public aware of our views and their importance. When appropriate, we will issue letters and editorials to Iowa newspapers. We will also organize service and social events to improve our public exposure.

Success in 2005 will require persistence and participation. The forces that oppose reason are stronger than ever. We need your help to meet our goals. Here are just a few things you can do to help the Iowa Secularists have a great 2005:

• Tell others about our organization and encourage their participation
  We have greater power in numbers and we continue to grow! Do you know someone who might be interested in our group? Invite them to check out our website and encourage their participation.
• Share your thoughts and ideas in our Forum
  Let us know what is on your mind. Our Forum includes participants from many parts of the state. The more we communicate the more influence we will have in Iowa.
• Contribute to the Iowa Secularist Operating Fund
  Contributions to our Operating Fund help keep the Iowa Secularists going. Your contribution, however large or small, helps pay for the website and Forum, stationery for communicating with elected officials and local newspapers, and marketing materials. All human resources are donated by members.

Together we can improve the standing of the religion-free worldview in Iowa. Our growth in 2004 is a testament to the power of reason and 2005 will be an important year. Help us help you protect your freedom of conscience and the Wall of Separation. Get involved with the Iowa Secularists and help us grow in 2005!

–BJS