October 26, 2020

Start A Chapter FAQ

  1. Why open an NJT Chapter?
    Have you ever wanted to make a difference? Make the world a better place?  Our motto is “Take a Suitcase, Change a Life.”  What you’ll find is the life you change just might be your own. In addition,  the type of people who will take time out of their vacations to deliver a suitcase tend to be some of the nicest people you will ever meet.
  2. What are the basic responsibilities of running an NJT Chapter?
    You will take donated medical supplies packed in suitcases and provide them to travelers visiting developing countries. NJT travelers have delivered suitcases to over 82 different countries ranging from Mexico to Mongolia.
  3. What are NJT’s expectations or level of commitment for starting a chapter?
    A passion for wanting to help others and to make the world a better place is the main expectation. Running a chapter is 100% voluntary and not a full time job. Your individual circumstances will determine how much time you put into your chapter. 
  4. What is the process to join NJT as a new chapter?
    Have a conversation with a representative of NJT.  By the end of the conversation we should have answered any questions you may have and you will be able to decide if opening a chapter makes sense for you.
  5. I’m a new chapter, how do I get started?
    One thing to realize is that the startup process is usually very gradual. There are 3 things you need, medical supplies, suitcases, and travelers. There are a variety of ways to get all three of those things and we will be glad to share what has worked for other chapters.
  6. Will I need to recruit volunteers?
    That’s up to you. Some chapters have only a few volunteers, while others have hundreds.
  7. What sort of support does NJT provide?
    All of the forms and systems that are necessary to get going are provided by NJT.  In addition NJT has a global website, a Facebook page with thousands of followers and other social channels. Our network of chapter coordinators and program directors are happy to answer your questions. 
  8. Is it important to have expertise in social media?
    It doesn’t hurt but it isn’t crucial. Many of the chapters use Facebook, Instagram, and/or Twitter to share pictures and stories about their work but this isn’t required. 
  9. What are the costs?
    Costs are minimal. You might want to print up some business cards, or purchase storage bins, but it’s mostly up to you. While we do not accept cash donations, In-kind donations such as printing services and supplies are often made available.
  10. What are my obligations regarding fundraising?
    There is no fundraising at NJT.  We proudly do NOT accept monetary donations.
  11. Do I need a medical background?
    No. Our chapters are run by people with a variety of backgrounds. We have a group of students at a University, a stay at home mom, a lawyer and her family, and a retired couple, among others. We do have chapters run by a doctors and nurses, but it is by no means required.
  12. How much paperwork is involved?
    Our systems are fairly automated, so very little. Prospective travellers, donors, and volunteers fill out a form on Google Sheets, after which you will receive an automated notification email.  All of the information is available to you on Google Docs.  There is paperwork that the traveler carries through customs, but that is generated by our automated systems as well.  Correspondence among chapter heads usually happens via email.
  13. Do I need a warehouse?
    Eventually, you’ll need somewhere to store supplies.  Some chapters have remained small enough to operate out of their homes or businesses, others have grown large enough to need additional donated storage space. You are in control of how many suitcases you send and how many medical supplies you accept. 
  14. I see that NJT has chapters in Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom, is NJT open to opening chapters in other countries?
    Definitely yes.

Sounds like something I might be interested in.  What’s next?
Please fill out the form here and we will be in touch shortly

Canadian Address: 240 Roncesvalles Ave, Toronto, Ontario

US Address: 3731 E. Casselle Ave, Orange, California
email: [email protected] Tel: +1(657) 348-4236