AMOS at STA

AMOS (A Mid-Iowa Organizing Strategy) is distinguished from other community-based organizations in its commitment to the IRON RULE: "Never do for others what they can do for themselves." AMOS believes in the inherent dignity of each person, that the Iron Rule affirms their dignity and violating the Iron Rule fosters dependency and passivity.

Therefore, in its essence AMOS will never be about programs, projects or issues. AMOS strives to identify potential leaders among "average citizens" and train them to participate in "politics" related to their self-interests. In this way AMOS leaders can impact the programs, projects and issues that affect their own families, communities and neighborhoods. Using this approach, AMOS' efforts result in systemic changes that outlive any single accomplishment. AMOS' base of congregations and their leaders sustains the permanence of its work. With the Iron Rule philosophy and its member foundation, AMOS is able to generate real and lasting improvements in Central Iowa.

Organization

AMOS is made up of member institutions. Each member institution or congregation organizes its own leadership team or "core team". AMOS is comprised of two geographic "clusters". Monthly cluster meetings have been established in metropolitan Des Moines for the AMOS member institutions in Dallas/Polk County and in Story County for the Ames member institutions (ACT - Ames Core Team).

A Central Leadership Team comprised of two members from each member institution governs the organization.

AMOS is an Iowa affiliate of the Industrial Areas Foundation (IAF) and is organized as a 501(c) 4 non-profit organization. Contributions to AMOS are not eligible for tax deductions. AMOS does not accept government funding and is funded primarily by the dues from its member congregations and institutions.

Links

• Research Teams
• AMOS on the web
• Some History