GANAS

Community Water Center’s co-founder, Susana De Anda, developed guiding principles for rural community organizing to support residents engaging in this work: GANAS. The acronym stands for Ganas (motivation to act), Aprender (learn), Negociar (negotiate), Accion (action), and Seguimiento (follow through). Learn more, here: (English / Español).

Create a Community Based Organization

No matter what the water problem is in your community, chances are you are not the only person concerned about your water. Organizing a community group to discuss and address local water issues is the best way to pursue solutions for your community and create lasting change. Learn more, here: (English / Español).

Get Involved in Your Local Water Board 

Understand the various options for getting involved in your local water board and ensuring that your voice is heard during decision-making processes, here: (English / Español). 

Community Water Center launched the Community Water Leaders Network to address systemic exclusion of low-income, rural communities of color in water decision making. The aim is to build a pipeline of strong community leaders and  support their participation in local, regional, and state water policy in order to achieve community-driven water solutions. Join here: Community Water Leaders Network.

Vote or Serve on a California District Board of Directors 

Understand what the requirements are to vote in your district or serve on the board of directors in your district, such as whether you need to own property or simply reside in the district, here: (English / Español).

Take the next step in community advocacy and run for your local water board. Running an election can be confusing and challenging, but see the following document to learn some strategies for success: (English / Español).