I have been a member of the AtMP Board of Directors since September of 2006. I live in Minneapolis, where I work as a Clinical Social Worker, providing assessment and therapy to individuals, couples and families. I first heard about AtMP on National Public Radio in 2001. It caught my attention because my partner Stephen and I are very happy with our relationship as it is and have no intention of marrying...

Originally I was hoping to find support and connect with like-minded people, learn more about advocating for the development of policies that better reflect the realities of families today and get information about how to make our relationship legally secure. Discovering an organization that was addressing something so personal to me was quite validating; I visited the AtMP website and joined the listserv right away. Shortly after visiting the website I emailed Dorian Solot, wondering if there was a Minneapolis chapter of AtMP. She said there wasn't, but asked if I would be willing to start one. I have been involved ever since.

AtMP appeals to me because of its inclusive mission. The organization is focused on greater recognition of alternative family structures that already exist, rather than promoting one lifestyle decision over another. I have personally chosen not to marry because that has been the right decision for me. I believe that my relationship deserves the same recognition and to be taken as seriously as those who choose to marry. I appreciate that AtMP advocates for the rights of GLBT couples to be recognized legally, and believes that everybody should have the choice whether to marry. More than that, though, I like AtMP's strong position that marriage should not be required for couples to be recognized. Finally, I appreciate the legislative advocacy that AtMP does regarding issues such as health care, marital status discrimination, marriage incentives and same-sex marriage bans.

My goals as an AtMP board member include greater engagement of members. I am interested in continuing to develop forums for people who share in AtMP's mission to meet and support each other. I am also working on the development of a professional network so we can offer referrals to legal and financial professionals who are invested in our mission. If you are interested in helping, please let me know by calling 718-788-1911.

The board of directors keeps AtMP focused on its mission and accountable to the public. Board committees do important work such as developing policy statements, networking with other organizations, and raising funds. You don't have to be a board member to join a committee! If you are good at virtual team work (a mix of independent efforts, two-way conversations, and group discussion via e-mail and phone) please call 718-788-1911 to join a committee!