How we operate

The priorities of Justice United are set by its member institutions. While most organizations begin with an issue or a plan to try to get members to support a particular issue, the member institutions of Justice United hold hundreds of individual meetings and small group conversations that will surface leaders and create an agenda of issues that come from the families in this community. Local families in local congregations working with local public officials and civic leaders take on some of the area’s most difficult challenges. Public conversations with decision makers are based on well researched solutions to deeply felt problems. It is through these conversations and through our actions together we reknit the frayed social fabric in our communities.  

Justice United is governed by a County wide leadership Caucus composed of two or three representatives from each member institution, depending on the member's size. As the main decision-making body, it meets periodically and determines which issues the organization will work on. An elected Strategy Team of up to 15 people helps shape action and guide the organization. Research Action Teams, lead by local leaders, undertake the day-to-day issue work. A interfaith, multi-racial group of member Clergy ensures that the work of the organization is theologically sound.

Justice United is deeply committed to developing the public life skills of its members and conducts introductory leadership sessions for new members three or four times a year. More advanced training is offered several times a year by the Industrial Areas Foundation, a national resource for training in the effective use of power for the common good.