Attention SIFE Teams:
Although the Global Outreach Registration Tool (GORT) and Application is no longer a requirement for teams conducting activities abroad, SIFE World Headquarters remains firm on its policy regarding international outreach. Please review the information below carefully. We thank you for your understanding and adherence to the guidelines described below.
Much of SIFE's growth in membership within colleges and universities is directly attributed to the work of members of veteran SIFE teams in recruiting and then mentoring teams at new institutions. SIFE World Headquarters thanks these teams and challenges all members of the network to continue to identify and help recruit potential new members. As SIFE teams serve in this capacity within their home countries, they should be aware of the following guidelines:
1) Teams are encouraged to coordinate their global activities with the staff of their national SIFE organization. Always alert your Country Coordinator or Program Manager of your intended activities prior to moving forward with them.
2) Teams are not authorized to actually extend membership to any other institution. Prospective colleges and universities must abide by any and all guidelines set forth by their country's national SIFE organization. Based on that country's specific eligibility rules, the country leadership will then make a decision as to whether or not to accept that institution into the network.
When attempting to discuss membership opportunities or assist with the organization of a SIFE team at institutions outside its home country, a SIFE team must first receive approval to do so from the staff of that country's SIFE national organization.
Unfortunately, for many legal reasons, we cannot extend membership in the SIFE network to institutions in countries that do not currently have a national SIFE organization in place. It is perfectly appropriate for SIFE teams to conduct educational outreach projects in such countries and to collaborate with college/university students from that country. However, as described under the Trademark Section of the SIFE Team Handbook, they are not authorized to represent themselves as members of the network or use the SIFE trademark.
Furthermore, if partnering with another college/university, they may not in any manner promote SIFE network membership opportunities, distribute official SIFE material or initiate organizational activities at the institution. Any SIFE faculty advisor or student team member who believes they have identified prospective network member institutions in such a country should contact the SIFE World Headquarters International Department at
sifeinternational@sife.org
.
You are encouraged to please review the Membership Guidelines Section of the SIFE Team Handbook for more details on this subject.