In Star Trek, a “mind meld” is a kind of telepathic touch that enables the rapid sharing of knowledge and experience. Unfortunately for (at least most of) us, we are neither telepathic nor within touching distance of each other, so we have created a MELD Network* to provide a mechanism to better share tools, methods, practices, and accomplishments across the state with each other.  

The “League Mind MELD” column is a way to share even more information to all our members across the state. This column will run each month and will include the responses we receive to the questions posed at the end of the previous month’s column.

August's MELD Moment
Moving forward, the MELD Pods will be chatting about the value of MELD participation, as well as all things 'voter service' in preparation for the General Election on November 5.

What are some of the valuable aspects of MELD? These pods are an opportunity for League members to learn about what other Leagues are doing. Pods share insights ranging from how Leagues engage with the public and younger voters through in-person outreach like tabling or virtual outreach with social media, to presenting civics in schools, to League mechanics like new member orientations, leadership models. MELD Pods provide a time to delve a bit deeper into serious subjects, to hone our skills, and deepen our knowledge of the League—past, present, and future. Pods are a source to share resources, 'how-tos', templates, and guidance, but they are also a place for brainstorming and gaining new perspectives on a variety of situations.

How Leagues participate in MELD Pods varies, some Leagues have one pod representative, while others rotate attendance amongst a few members. All pod members are encouraged to report back to their home League to share what is learned and to get feedback from their own membership. We look forward to your participation in one of our pods!

The League Mind MELD
Last month's question about land acknowledgements garnered a lot of interest! The responses were very similar from both League members and people from our Native communities. The words in an acknowledgement can feel rote, empty, and self-serving. However, we are urged to make the statements stronger with actual commitments and actions—which we are, or are preparing, to do. Great observations, thank you to those who took the time to respond!

August's Questions:

1. Why will you vote in November?
2. As a League member, what makes you most proud?

Please contact Nancy Halvorson to respond, or if you have any questions.

* In the context of the League, MELD actually has zero connection to Star Trek; it is an acronym for Membership, Engagement, Leadership, and Development. MELD pods meet each month to serve as platforms for sharing successes, addressing challenges, and exchanging ideas among local Leagues. Are you interested in learning more about MELD? Talk to your Local League Leadership about becoming involved in MELD. Are you interested in learning more about MELD? Talk to your Local League Leadership about becoming involved in MELD.