FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Below are some of the questions people ask most often about OFA, how to get connected, and fundraising.
What is OFA?
OFA is a non-partisan progressive grassroots network, fueled by millions of volunteers, that has been fighting for years to move our country forward. OFA does two things: mobilize and organize. We mobilize grassroots supporters to win key issue fights; and we organize at the community level, engaging, training, and empowering a new generation of leaders to strengthen the progressive movement over the long haul.
That’s the short version, but there’s a whole lot more. Head here to start learning more.
How can I get involved in my community?
People in every corner of the country, from every background, and with every level of experience—from former elected officials to people who have never been involved in politics or organizing before—are jumping into the action. OFA already has over 100 official local chapters nationwide that are powered entirely by volunteers—the backbone of this organization—and we’re constantly expanding. Even if there’s not a chapter in your community, you can join this movement and start taking action right now:
1. Find a chapter near you
2. Connect online with volunteers in your area
3. Find events near you
4. Check out other ways to take action now
What is Slack?
Slack is an online third-party platform that allows users to connect and collaborate on projects.
OFA’s Slack workspace enables volunteers, alumni, staff, and supporters at all levels use to find each other and share ideas on the issues they’re passionate about. Users can join issue-specific groups to have conversations about the policies that matter most to them or state and local groups that are more focused on organizing in their own communities.
Due to security concerns, new users are requested to apply to join OFA’s Slack workspace, and admission is not guaranteed. Please make note that requests to join will be reviewed on a rolling basis and may not be approved immediately.
Check it out here.
Does OFA lobby the federal government?
OFA does not hire professional federal lobbyists to advocate on behalf of the policies it supports. OFA is an advocacy organization that trains and mobilizes citizens to speak out for the adoption and implementation of progressive policies.
What is OFA’s relationship with former President Barack Obama?
OFA was started by former Obama aides after his re-election who recognized the need for an enduring grassroots movement dedicated to community organizing, leadership training, and fighting for progress. President Obama’s deep belief in the power of ordinary people to come together to enact change has always been at OFA’s core, but he does not have an official role in the organization.
What are OFA’s financial contribution guidelines and are its finances publicly disclosed?
While not required by law to publicly report its finances, OFA voluntarily makes quarterly disclosures over the course of the year of donations over $250.
Is OFA a Super PAC?
No. OFA is a non-profit social welfare organization as defined in Internal Revenue Code (IRC) section 501(c)(4).
How can I make a press inquiry?
If you are a member of the press and would like to be added to the OFA press list to receive press releases and advisories, or have a specific inquiry, fill out our press inquiries form.
How can I donate?
Online: Visit our main donate page to contribute to OFA online. Or click right here.
Mail: You can contribute via mail by sending your contribution to:
Organizing for Action
P.O. Box 618120
Chicago, IL 60661
Checks can be made payable to “Organizing for Action.” OFA does not accept cash contributions.
(Contributions or gifts to Organizing for Action are not tax deductible. Please include your full name, address, phone number, and email address in the envelope.)
Does OFA accept donations via PayPal or Venmo?
OFA does not currently accept contributions via Venmo, but there are other ways you can give listed in the “How can I donate?” section above. The “online” method will allow you to contribute a donation via PayPal.
How can I become a recurring donor to OFA?
Monthly donors are a core group of supporters—OFA Champions—who sustain this grassroots organization through recurring contributions. Become an OFA Champion today.
Can I modify my recurring donation?
If you are currently a recurring donor and you would like to cancel or change the details of your contribution, you can modify your recurring donation.
Is my contribution tax deductible?
Contributions to OFA are not tax deductible.
How can I unsubscribe from OFA emails?
We’d hate to see you go, but if you’d like to unsubscribe from our email list you can do so by visiting our unsubscribe form and entering your email address. If you receive OFA emails to more than one email address, you will need to fill out the form for each email address you would like to unsubscribe from our list.
I have a technical question that isn’t answered here. What should I do?
If you have a technical question that isn’t answered in this FAQ or on ofa.us, contact us here.