New Structure

There is a greater focus now than ever within KY9/12, as well as a strategic vision of what we all want to accomplish. Not surprisingly, it revolves around the same things that started this movement two years ago. It is a common idea based on principles and values, an understanding of the importance of education and an informed electorate, an empowerment to act on your own, and a support group and network of like-minded patriots.

As much as things remain the same, this is a new day; we are organized now and carry a renewed sense of enduring purpose. Because of this we determined that reorganizing as a social welfare organization under section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code would best fit the organization. While our purchases may not be tax-exempt and donations made to us may not be tax-deductible, it is still a not-for-profit status that carries a lot less regulations making it perfect for social movements like ours. And we know if people are going to donate to the group, it will not be out of desire for an IRS deduction but because they believe in the mission and want to help in what we are doing. We will remain non-partisan and a-political under this status, but it does still give us the liberty to advocate for issues that the group deems appropriate.

By signing official articles of incorporation, we were taking the next step together. As members, we had always felt a solemn responsibility for what we were doing, but now we will also have defined accountability. On the other side, though, we will be limiting our liabilities and create a new umbrella organization that was capable of bigger and better things. We will have new freedoms to raise needed funds instead of going from event-to-event just trying to cover our costs.

The purpose and spirit of the people involved has not changed though, and you all have been and will continue to be the driving force. This remains a truly grassroots movement rooted in nine principles and twelve values focused on rediscovering who we are and teaching others the heritage of what makes this nation great.

We were not changing to a top-down organization as KY9/12 would always exist to support the bottom-up grassroots needs. Our goal is to create a structure that combines the best of both worlds. We would encourage personal responsibility and an organic grassroots nature to allow for the freedom needed to grow and develop. We would also provide the protection and organization that could help development and provide focus. We would not control or dictate to the local groups, but would maintain a subservient role to them. We had seen that with the right arrangement an idea could come from an individual in Owensboro, be expanded upon by others in Lexington, be communicated through a network to everyone in Kentucky, and then be circulated nationwide to 9/12 groups in every state. We do not want this to change.

Thank You,
Kentucky 9/12 Board

Eric, Lydia, Lisa, Jim, Nikki, Jeff, Lisa, Jim, Suzanne, Justen, & Anne