Working Groups often form the foundation for network activities. Networks can provide a structure through which members can communicate, exchange information, learn from each others’ experiences, and inform each other of plans and intentions. But they also themselves can serve as vehicles for joint action that initiate and conduct campaigns or projects. In most cases, such campaigns are marked by what might be called cross-organizational team leadership organized through Working Groups. Campaigns typically focus on such areas as media and communications, public policy, public education, public action campaigns, and research and monitoring of trends and developments.
A Working Group is generally convened by at least two member organizations on the basis of a community of interest around a particular sector or issue. Working Groups are responsible for planning and implementing strategies in their sectors. They communicate with the membership as a whole, and they confer with the Steering Committee about their activities on a regular basis.