Utah Water Resources Council papers, 1980-1981

Page 107

- 18 - meeting with the superintendent of police, who, under pressure, ordered a crackdown on narcotics traffic in that community. These are some victories, the outward signs of institutionally-based citizens' organizations, organizations which re-arrange the relationship between families and churches on the one hand, and the major money and power institutions on the other. They recognize that power tends to come in two forms: organized people and organized money. But what are the elements of such an organization, and what goes into the process of building one? Elements of an Organization of Institutions The type of citizens' organization described in this paper is rooted in institutions--in parishes, congregations, synagogues, social groups like the Lions Club or the VFW, religious orders of men and women, and perhaps a local merchants association. These organizations recognize that, in our country, one of the largest reservoirs of untapped power is the institution of the parish and congregation. Religious institutions form the center of the organization. They have the people, the values, and the money. Without church people, moderates and conservatives as well as liberals, citizens' organizations tend to be controlled by activists. Without church values, citizens' groups can get sucked into movements or relationships which can actually weaken family life or church life. And without the money, a solid dues base that builds from year to year, organizations spend most of their time raising money. The citizens' organization of this type respects and builds on the traditions and patterns of the community. It is a systematic