This site seeks to be a clearinghouse for ideas, issues and practices related to doing outreach, so that Quakers in North America can learn from each other and collaborate as way opens. It is not intended to be a forum for debating the merits of quaker ways or theology.

A working definition of OUTREACH:
a) allowing one's life as a Quaker to speak;
b) making the information about our faith and practice available;
c) having a visible legacy.
Thus seekers may be drawn to Quakers, not exhorted, to come into fellowship with us.

Quaker legacy has been effective as outreach in these primary areas:
1) methods, mediation, facilitation and training (eg AVP, Conflict Resolution, Peace Brigades Intl, Couple Enrichment) when a Quaker legacy is identified.
2) Umbrella service organizations (AFSC, CFSC, QUNO, FCNL)
3) Schools, camps and retreats as incubators of community-builders (eg Olney Friends School, Powell House, Camp NeeKauNis (ON), Friends Music Camp, etc)

Henry Cadbury: The Quaker mission was to uncover potential Quakers. The function of the Friend to the non-Friend was to help discover what was already there, not to change or persuade, but to disclose.
(Character of A Quaker, 1959)

Let us discuss doing outreach, disclosing to others a faith tradition in which is inclusive and respectful of diversity.
(updated Sept 2, 2002)