Networking

Why Network?

Many prepper/survivalists maintain that secrecy and security are more important than networking and organizing. Live Free USA has been in existence as a high profile advocate and teaching organization for survival and preparedness for over 45-years. Over these years we have seen hundreds of survival preparedness organizations come and go. A group that limits its goals to preparing for some future disaster and limits its vision to just “surviving” always deteriorates and dissolves over a few years. Only those groups that interact with their communities and likeminded groups have been successful over the long haul. A successful group is about growing, building, advocating, teaching and making a difference no matter what the future brings. Networking is a key factor in personal, family and group survival.

Networking can be categorized into four levels:

Personal and Family Networks are built through discussion of on-going hazards (e.g. economic decline, climate change, crime, lost freedoms, shortages, etc.) and potential disasters (e.g. financial collapse, civil unrest, storms, floods, droughts, epidemics, etc.) with coworkers, neighbors, family members and friends. Such discussions must lead to suggested actions (plans, purchases, stocking up, learning) and further cooperative activities to help each other be better prepared and move towards sustainable living (gardens, alternate energy, trade and barter, etc.). This should lead to a formal or informal network or group that strengthens everyone capabilities. The group should always be open to helping others and be involved in the community.

Community Networks are formed through involvement of existing organizations in preparedness and self-reliance activities. This may be a network of dedicated preparedness groups, but more often should include community groups, church groups, veteran’s organizations, fraternal organizations and sports (e.g. hunting, shooting, etc.) groups. Such networks will have greater resources and a vested interest in bringing preparedness and sustainable living to the community. They can host seminars, workshops and even full scale preparedness fairs.

Regional and National Networking is critical to the long-term survival of independent and self-reliant families. Without such networks a culture of centralized control and dependency will prevail. Although the internet can help facilitate the development of such networks, they should be built on “boots on the ground”, face-to-face” contact with adjoining and linked groups of all kinds. Being represented at preparedness expos, seminars, and meetings . Is critical to this phase of network building. Live Free USA also actively links up chapters and affiliates in geographically adjoining areas. For help in contacting other groups e-mail: lfinow@aol.com

Virtual Networks are the most popular and easy way to network with other preparedness and self-reliance practitioners. While these systems boast hundreds or thousands of members they are not “real” networks. They are however very great tools and portals to developing real connections and real networks. For a variety of reasons, depending on any internet system for sustaining disaster preparedness organization would be a mistake, but it is a great starting point to facilitate networking. One of the best networks to use is: AmericanPreppersNetwork.com These folks can get you networking with national a regional preppers and groups as well as keep you informed about meetings and expos around the country

Live Free USA established an effective national network in the late 1970, before there was an internet. It can be done! Live free usa is dedicated to building the preparedness and sustainable living movement. You can always contact us for help in organizing and networking.