Thank you for participating in the election of new members to the SPP
 Board of Directors!


 There are two seats available to be filled, and six outstanding
 candidates! You are being asked to select two of those six candidates
 to join the SPP board.


 All of the candidates have all answered questions regarding their
 candidacy and their potential contributions to the board. Their
 responses
 <a
 class="ml-1"
 target="_blank"
 rel="noopener noreferrer"
 href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hf3ijwhqUeHWJfswGAIzpMRM33cB_ON1Jca6umb26dw/edit?usp=sharing"
 >
 can be found here.
 </a>


 Voting opens November 10th and closes on midnight November 24th.
 Election results will be announced on November 25th.


 If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to
 contact <a href="https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/133528312/">Christy S</a>.

Vote for our board - form

# SexPositive Portland (SPP)

### *Our mission is to change the world by promoting healthy sexuality through community and education.*

## Come, learn, play, and grow with us!  

We are a member/volunteer organization. Our members plan and host events centered around understanding and exploring all aspects of human sexuality, consent, relationship styles, kink, gender, and orientation. We are a diverse and welcoming community.

## What is Sex Positivity?

Sex positivity is a social movement and philosophy which regards all consensual expressions of sexuality as healthy, encourages sexual pleasure and experimentation, places an emphasis on informed consent and advocates sex education and risk-aware sex. Sex-positivity makes no moral distinctions among types of sexual expression, orientation or identification, regarding these choices as matters of personal preference.

## What Does Our Group Do?

SexPositive Portland is a real community of open-minded, fun, and awake people. We provide a chance to explore, learn, and grow in a safe, welcoming, and consensual environment. 

Our real world events include classes, discussion groups, workshops, socials, parties, festivals, and more. They range from member hosted events (in homes, parks, restaurants, etc.), outings together where we might go watch and signature events (facilitated events like our snuggles, couple/triads massages, and parties), that are created by SexPositive Portland and led by its core volunteers.

We value healthy sexuality that is created through autonomy, boundary setting, enthusiastic consent, and pleasure. We are creating a community based on direct communication, social justice, connection, fun, and support. We value accessible education focused on experiences and growth, and replacing unhelpful patterns of behavior through a diversity of new ideas.

## About Applying

[Learn the details of applying here](/join)

## How Do I Participate at Events?

At events you are expected to be respectful of the boundaries of others and of the event, to take care of yourself, and honor your boundaries and agreements. Beyond that, anything else is up to you. You will never be expected to do anything you don't want to, or to interact with anyone you don’t wish to. But we do expect you to contribute as an active participant through positive social interaction. Sex positivity is about authentic, respectful, open communication, and being honest about your desires.

To keep people where they want to be (not exposed to things they aren't ready for or don't desire) we've developed a level system and you will notice that all of our events will tell you what level that event is, that is, what is the maximum level of contact or sexuality that will be happening.

In a nutshell:

- Level 1 is Social/Educational (workshops, classes, outings, discussion groups) 
- Level 2 is Sensual (snuggle parties, group massage, sensation play: touch that is nurturing and affectionate) 
- Level 3 is Sexy without an agenda. Learning how to integrate and create connection
- Level 4 is Deeper Community

Detailed descriptions of the levels [can be found here](/resources/levels-explained).

Anyone can attend Level 1 events  so please feel free to bring a friend or loved one. However, if you wish to attend Level 2 or higher events you must attend an Orientation, Awesome Boundaries, STARS, a Social and pay your annual dues.

We have an established system for vetting people and helping them work up the level system. But many people are happy staying at Level 1 or 2 or 3.

People tell us our level system is the thing they like the most about our group. 

__For more information:__

* Visit our public Facebook Page [https://www.facebook.com/sexpositiveportland](https://www.facebook.com/sexpositiveportland/)

[Join SexPositive Portland](/join)


# Care And Confidentiality Commitment

Care includes: safer sex knowledge and practice, hygiene, substantial sobriety, disclosing relationship agreements, discussing “meaning,” RSVP practices and more.

Confidentiality includes: privacy, photo policy, non-disclosure, and more.

To keep our group safe and harmonious, please confirm the following statements:
- I’m over 21 years of age.
- I know how to do the safer sex talk and will use it when appropriate.
- I will ask others about their STI status when appropriate and will take care of myself.
- I will come to events clean and substantially free of odors, both natural and enhanced (some people are allergic and/or intolerant of essential oils, perfumes, and colognes)
- I will arrive and remain substantially sober for the purposes of being able to 1) give affirmative consent, 2) be present and connected, and 3) not be annoying to others
- I will disclose my relationship agreements to fellow members and allow them to decide how to proceed.
- I will share what the “meaning” of an interaction would be for me if it is of significance to me and will ask you for yours (if this makes no sense, see Safer Sex Talk).
- I will clearly communicate my boundaries and will ask for and respect others' boundaries.
- I take responsibility for my own experience and will not “tolerate” experiences I don’t’ like. I will seek help from a care counselor if needed, will share concerns about other members/volunteers/ leaders with a member of the Membership Committee, and will follow the Steps to Resolving Conflicts as outline in the document of the same name, found on the Pages section of our Meetup page.
- I’ll take care of fellow members by offering assistance when they seem stuck, lost, lonely, when I see them violating boundaries or allowing their boundaries to be violated.
- I will not divulge the identity of other attendees or share their experience without their express permission. Not to another person, not on Facebook, not on their Meetup wall.
- I will not take photos at events without permission from BOTH leadership and the individuals being photographed.

# SPP Code of Conduct

SexPositive Portland (SPP) is a community of individuals actively creating a culture of care, confidentiality, and consent. To foster a loving and drama-free which allows learning and personal growth, the following is the code of conduct in the community. We grant and retract membership privileges based on a member’s ability to conduct themselves well within our community today and moving forward.

## Communication

* **Direct communication** is of highest value in SPP. All communications are voluntary and consensual (meaning free of coercion, harassment, or pressure).

    * As much as possible, members will talk about and listen through issues in a constructive and caring manner.

    * Members will avoid using blaming language or language that includes a diagnosis of someone else. We strive to talk from our own observations of what happened, how that affected us, and to say how we wish to be treated in the future.

* **Trolling** is defined as contacting another member (phone, social media, Meetup messages, others) without having had prior consent to do so explicitly from that member. Trolling is not allowed. 

* **Gossip** Gossip (repeating hearsay or build coalitions to gain support against other members) is not allowed or tolerated. 

    * Members will not share someone else’s story unless they have the explicit and informed consent to share it.

    * We will ONLY publicly point out what another member said or did with that other member’s consent and ONLY in order to discuss a pertinent issue. 

* **Conflict Resolution **

    * Members will express concerns by directly speaking with the other member, the host/ facilitator at the event or giving information to the Membership Care & Concerns Committee (MC3) via the [Incident Report](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScPDLfkV0GAk942cKzPUu3gEyl52Dr7E_oUwf4UPlFTQ1z0nw/viewform).

    * Member-in-conflict/concern is to take action themselves in the manner stated above. They are not to have another person serve as a mediator, go-betweens or advocates in lieu of the stated process. 

    * Member-in-conflict can have an ally to offer assistance and help in the MC3 process if it has been clearly defined and agreed to. 

* **Social Media** SPP social media forums, such as the public, private SPP and SPW Facebook group and the Meetup event group discussions are not an arena to air grievances or concerns about a specific person or to complain about an event, SPP, or the community at large. 

    * ALL such posts can be removed by the Administrator or moderator. 

    * The Administrator or Moderators can close the discussion on a thread if it does not meet these standards. 

* **RSVP** to attend an event is a commitment.

    *  If a member cannot make an event, they must change their RSVP more than two hours prior to the start of the event.

    *  If less than two hours, members will leave a message or notify the event host on the event page as well as changing the RSVP. 

    * More than three no-shows can lead to not being taken off the waitlist, being removed from an event with a waitlist, or being asked to prepay for all events. 

    * More than five no-show can lead to revoking membership in SPP. 

## Care

* **Personal hygiene** Members will come to events clean and substantially free of odors, both natural and enhanced (some people are allergic and/or intolerant of essential oils, perfumes, and colognes.)

* **Sobriety** Members will arrive and remain substantially sober at events to give affirmative consent, be present, connected, and not be annoying to others.

* **Safer Sex Discussion ** Members will use a safer sex dicussion such a STARS, when appropriate, prior to any sexual or strongly sensual engagement with others. This includes, but not limited to,

    * Honestly discussing STI status, including last tested and results. 

    * Communication and respecting boundaries without judgment or coercion prior to any engagement and during the engagement if they change. 

    * Ethically disclosing any relationship agreements with others. 

    * Discussing intentions and expectations pertaining to engaging with others in a sensual/sexual context. 

    * Members take responsibility for their own decisions and experiences at events and will seek support from the event host/facilitators or other members as needed. 

* **Community**

    * Members take care of fellow members by offering assistance directly or notifying the event host when someone seems stuck, lost, confused, lonely, see a boundary violation or in trauma.

    * Members will take responsibility for their own experiences and will speak up rather than tolerate or endure experiences they do not like.

    * Members will seek help from a care counselor if needed.

* **Conduct Outside of SPP or Conduct from the Past**:

    * Issues that were problematic elsewhere or in the past manifesting in the present can lead to revoked membership.

    * A member exhibits a pattern of distressing multiple members outside our community in ways that negatively affect members within our community.

    * If a conflict is to exist outside of the SPP container, it will be determined by the MC3 if it is egregious, involves people within the SPP container and can be detrimental to the community as a whole.

## Confidentiality

**Non-Disclosure** We protect the privacy of our members.  Not everyone is out and open about their exploration of sexuality, their orientation or their relationship practices in their personal or professional lives.  

* Members will not divulge the identity of other members.

* Members will not share the experiences or stories of other members within or outside of SPP without their express consent.

* Members will not share Facebook posts from within the SPP secret group outside of that group without express consent from the original poster

* Members will not tag anyone on social media without their consent. 


**Image Policy**

* Members will not take photos or videos at events without permission from BOTH leadership or event host/facilitator AND the individuals being photographed.

* Members will not share photos or videos from within the SPP secret Facebook group outside of that group without express consent from BOTH the original poster AND everyone in the photograph.

* Members may not tag anyone on social media  or outing anyone without their explicit verbal consent.


# Concerns and Complaints

## Resolving Member Complaints and Concerns

__Steps to resolving member complaints swiftly and compassionately__

SexPositive Portland realizes that there may be times when one member purposely or more likely, unintentionally does not follow our Member Best Practices. We have a dedicated team of volunteers, the Membership Concerns and Conflict Committee (MC3)  who are here to support you and help one navigate this. 

Please read the Member Communication Agreement and agree to follow the recommendations of not participating in gossip, hearsay, or coalition building against the person as this only inflames sentiments and makes it harder to get to the bottom of things.

If this is a __minor__ issue: 
Talk to the person! We are always afraid to talk to people! Practice your new communication skills. Use 'I' statements and not 'you' statements. Share your hurt without accusations. Did this work? If YES, you have potentially created a new friend!! If NO then go to the next step of filling out a incident form and cease all communication with the person you are reporting. 

Is this a __major__ issue? Fill out a incident form and a member of the Membership Concern and Complaint Committee (MC3) will be contacting you both.Please allow up to 7 days. *If it needs immediate attention then directly message MC3 Leadership and the Executive Director. You can email at SPPConcerns@gmail.com*

### Step 1

A __CONFLICT__ or Boundary Violation: Directly communication with the other person(s) when issues arise that need to be resolved.
Be clear and let the person know that what they have done which is not acceptable to you and that they should not do it again. 
As much as possible, we agree to talk about and listen through issues in a constructive and caring manner.
We will avoid using blaming language or language that includes a diagnosis of someone else. We strive to talk from our own observations of what happened, how that affected us, and to say how we wish to be treated in the future.
If you feel comfortable that they get it and that they will be more aware and respectful of your boundaries in the future, then no more action in needed.
If they don’t seem to get it or you do not feel safe directly communicating, then go to the 
next step. 

A __CONCERN__: Proceed to Step 2

### Step 2

[Fill out this incident form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScPDLfkV0GAk942cKzPUu3gEyl52Dr7E_oUwf4UPlFTQ1z0nw/viewform "Member Incident Report"). 
Cease all communication with the person you are reporting. Both parties will be asked not to attend events past Level One while report is being reviewed.



### Step 3

You will be contacted by one of our members of the MC3. Please give us up to 7 days. We are an all volunteer committee and sometimes it takes us time. 

Please have all available documentation and witness statements available for review, that includes text streams, emails, voicemails, or any other communication you have.

### Step 4

__Concerns__ Concerns often do not require intervention. Someone from the MC3 will be in contact with the person filing the complaint to let them know it has been received. Sometimes Concerns will wait for our every other month meetings to discuss. They are kept in a file for documentation. 

__Conflicts__ A member of the MC3 will be assigned to both parties. 
If the incident was fairly minor, often, it is enough that we talk to the person and give them coaching and training for how to be better with boundaries. 
However, for stronger claims, it may be necessary that we have both parties in the room in order to clear things up. In that case, both parties must be in attendance with their MC3 representative, unless the evidence is overwhelming and it is agreed that it would be detrimental to the claimant to be there.If one party is unable to be present at a mediation, for whatever reason, they should send a letter outlining their position; and it will be taken under consideration. However, we strongly desire that members be present unless it would be grievously injurious to them (i.e., more than uncomfortable or inconvenient).

Members will be advised of the MC3 decisions and agree to abide by them or leave the group.

We know that perfect solutions are hard to come by, so we agree to be as forgiving and understanding as possible, both with the people involved and the people assisting in any conflict resolution.

__We take claims very seriously. All forms and concerns will be filed for future reference.__

The MC3 meets every other month. Depending on the severity of the concern or conflict, our response times may vary. *Any immmediate or serious need should be directed to the MC3, Leadership, and the Executive Director/CEO.*

# Who's Who at SPP

## Board Members

| Name  (term end Dec.)           |      |      |
| ---------- | ---------- | ---------- | ---------- |
| [James Wind](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/115359142/)  (2019) | [Susan Cohn](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/34979732/)  (2019) | [Cliff Rees](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/8549743/)  (2020) | [Kirsa Moonwhisper](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/232464399/) (2020) |
| ![James](//images.ctfassets.net/z60c05cc1iui/VTWMaGMf6KCkYge2kMUYs/8487a0596b89d6696540a83ed251e62e/James.jpeg) | ![Susan](//images.ctfassets.net/z60c05cc1iui/25VFsNfUVKGs2A0QYaIY0O/59a95525612c197d087d69c60070797b/Susan.jpeg) | ![Cliff](//images.ctfassets.net/z60c05cc1iui/43JpRLEfjaq6OSsA00EoSc/f367445b40d93bce928e856bf0a35465/Cliff.jpeg) | ![Kirsa](//images.ctfassets.net/z60c05cc1iui/2RBlK4MC8MSeciKMo6s0Mc/a06cd773a18c90bfa3080c945c065ada/Kirsa.jpg) |
| [Lance Hitchings](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/13739043/) (2021) | [Yaz Amirsoleymani](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/84289742/)  (2021) | [John Sickler](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/176098262/) (SPW n/a) |
| ![Lance](//images.ctfassets.net/z60c05cc1iui/2pFEPcIFrOYU0sMm0w6oWc/e8d66444bfe9c76107ccf4fe4703fdbf/Lance.jpeg) | ![Yaz](//images.ctfassets.net/z60c05cc1iui/3SFjwTvEw8202kKo6GUwYo/16cf95c731b74a804b19f3138a125dda/Yaz.jpeg) | ![John](//images.ctfassets.net/z60c05cc1iui/4g8ZWpz8Dm2sugy64WwWc8/c4176cee6ec873dfe9c4c3986ed87786/John.jpeg) |

Board meeting notes and responsibilities are detailed on the [SPP Board page](/board)

# Leadership 

## The Directors
* Evelin Dacker, MD -- Executive Director - email at [evelinmd@gmail.com](mail:evelinmd@gmail.com)

  ![Evelin](//images.ctfassets.net/z60c05cc1iui/5QdbCLfjgW2iWYoSU8sayk/57447591a6ace1926ed561353d4a06ae/Evelin.jpeg)
* Amy Young-Leith -- Membership Director - [contact through Meetup](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/8892248/)
![amy](//images.ctfassets.net/z60c05cc1iui/duGgLaKzp3Qys6AtbApVw/2b879fbd238fac87b93bfee3d5428f4e/amy.jpeg)
* Davina Bookbinder -- Programming Director - [contact through Meetup](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/210136977/)
![davina](//images.ctfassets.net/z60c05cc1iui/4CLavq4bAcT5HMngCoze95/61370af69dcee512416f7724c0cc03c6/davina.jpg)

## Membership Team
* SPP Membership - General questions (Amy)
  * [contact through Meetup](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/189929146/)
  * Or email [sppmembership@gmail.com](mail:sppmembership@gmail.com)
* Leveling 1-2 - Specific questions regarding leveling up to L2 (Adam, Moxley) 
  * [contact through Meetup](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/189929146/) 
* SPP Sponsorship (Pamela) - Specific questions for leveling sponsorships.
  * [contact through Meetup](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/248727576/)
  * Or email [sppsponsor@gmail.com](mail:sppsponsor@gmail.com)

## Membership Concerns & Care Committee (MC3)

SPP Concerns: [sppconcerns@gmail.com](mail:sppconcerns@gmail.com)

## Volunteering

SPP Volunteering: [spvolunteerguru@gmail.com](mail:spvolunteerguru@gmail.com)

## Ambassadors

SPP Ambassadors: [contact via Meetup](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/270031341/)

## Events

So you would like to suggest an event idea? If you are an presentor who is not a member of SPP and would like to teach or present to us, please submit requests to our lovely Programming Director, Davina Bookbinder, [davinabookbinder@gmail.com](mail:davinabookbinder@gmail.com).

# End of Event Responsibilities

1. [Review money and finances](/resources/event-accounting)
2. On the event in Meetup, update "Went" and “No Show” for each RSVP member
3. Clean up space
4. If there are any supply needs, send requests to the  [Programming Director](mailto:Davinabookbinder@gmail.com)
5. Complete the [Host Completion Form](https://forms.gle/pFKkZ8HBdHozJvL17) !
6. 3-4 days after event, send a reminder about completing the survey:
  1. Go to your event
  2. Open "Organizer Tools" on the right
  3. Chose "Contact Attendees" and send a message with a link.


# Event Accounting

## Collecting Money for the Event

At this time only PayPal at [SexPositivePDX@gmail.com](mailto:SexPositivePDX@gmail.com) or cash at event is accepted.
If you want to have prepayment at your event, please clear this by [Programming Director](/contacts) before creating the draft.
Events open to the public will be directed to pay through our website. Please discuss this with [Programming Director](/contacts) prior to creating the event.

## Complete the Event Finance Form

Printed copies can be found in the money box at SPP Center.

* [Print copy](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1khaCRjlElUXhSBPR3gskn1sMj88wPVy9gCDeiuFYH5M/edit?usp=sharing). 
* [Digital Version](https://forms.gle/skM1NP7tfJriKkrCA)

Please remember to send expense receipts in an envelope with the money and form or
email photos of receipts to [Jeff](mailto:http://jlcrowl@gmail.com).

If you need to be reimbursed, notify our Treasurer, [Cliff](mailto:crees1080@gmail.com).

## What to Do With the Money

1. Money should be dropped off at the center in an envelope with form and receipts, as soon after the event as possible. 
2. Money could also be sent via PayPal to [SexPositivePDX@gmail.com](mailto:SexPositivePDX@gmail.com). 
  1. Write the name and date of the event in Memos. 
  2. Chose for **Friends and Family! **Do not choose "services". Otherwise PayPal takes a percentage.


* [How to get an event posted on the SPP Calendar](/resources/post-event-to-spp-calendar)
* [Timeline for events](/resources/timeline-for-events)
* [How to get volunteers](/resources/obtaining-volunteers)
* [End of Event Responsibilities](/resources/end-of-event-responsibilities)
* [Event financials](/resources/event-accounting)


# Events

* [Calendar - See the full calendar pages all at once](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/events/calendar/)
* [Upcoming Events](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/events/)
* [Public Events](https://calendar.google.com/calendar/embed?src=ta7c6f73itiin20rhagcggu6vs%40group.calendar.google.com&ctz=America%2FLos_Angeles "Sex Positive Portland Public Events")
* [Past Events](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/events/past/)

# How to get an event posted on the SPP Calendar

### 1. Join the SPP Slack Workspace

Join SPP Slack by going to this link: [Join SPP Slack Group](https://join.slack.com/t/spportland/shared_invite/enQtNjA2MDkzNDI1OTIyLTMzNWIzODZmNDJlZWNmY2I2ZTFmMGJjMDA4YjQyZGE2NjE4NWZkOWI3YThjNGJjNDQwN2M2NDUyNjc2OTI5Y2U)

Add yourself to the following Slack channels: `#events-calendar` and `#events-noticeboard`.

### 2. Receive the Event Organizer Role

Ask [Programming Director](mailto:davinabookbinder@gmail.com) or [Executive Director](mailto:evelinmd@gmail.com) to make you a Meetup Event Organizer, if you are not already. 

### 3. Find a Date for Event 

Find a date on the [SPP Calendar](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/events/calendar/) and in [Drafts](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/events/drafts/), to make sure that the date you want does not have an event at the location or time that you desire. 

Different events can occur at the same time, but if they draw from the same group of people, then it may not be approved.  

### 4. Create a Draft Event

In Meetup, start a new SPP event with the following details:

1. Title: 80 character limit
  1. Label the event according to type (Workshop, Discussion, Outing, Member Interest Group (MIG))
  2. Title of event
  3. Level of event
  4. If nonmembers are included, must be labeled "Public" or “Open”
2. Description of event: 50,000 character limit
  1. If there is a sliding scale it goes at the top of the event description
  2. What the event is about
  3. What to expect at the event
  4. Timeline that is expected
  5. Any restrictions on the space (accessibility, allergy concerns) 
  6. Restrictions on who can attend (qualifications, classes you need to have taken already, if you need a partner)
  7. If it's an leveling-up event: include standard language about sponsors
  8. If there will be wait-listing before people can be added - mention this and why
  9. If there is a minimum attendance for the event (cancellation policy)
3. Optional Settings
  1. Repeat Event: Do NOT use
  2. Ask Member A Question: To use if you want to know something specific about a member such as level or sponsor
  3. Attendee Limit:
      1. Can use to create a **Waitlist**.
          1. Set the attendee limit to the host number only.
          2. Everyone who RSVP yes, will be placed on the waitlist until you take them off. 
      2. Use to limit attendee numbers. 
          3. Events at the Center can comfortably hold 30. 
          4. Adjust for 5-10% no show rates
  4. Allow Guests: If it is approved to have *non-members* attend the event.
  5. RSVP start and end time: Do not use
  6. Event Fee: Method to chose is **Cash**
4. Event Fee: See the Event Fees table below
5. Event Policies
  * Outside Presenters- To be determined by Programming Director
  * No SPP classes or workshops costing more than $50
  * SPW events may not follow this cost format
6. Volunteer Credits. See information about Volunteer Credits below.
7. **SAVE THE EVENT INTO DRAFTS. Do not make it live. **
  * If you accidently hit PUBLISH, then 
    1. Make a copy, update the date & time
    2. Put the copy into drafts. 
    3. Delete the published event

### Event Fees

| Event Type | Fee |
| ---------- | --- |
| Membership Interest Groups (MIG) | free - $10 |
| Cuddles | $10 - $15 sliding scale |
| Discussion Groups (book, relationship) | $5-10 |
| Kink Core Classes | $10 |
| Kink Events | $15 |
| Parties-Private to members | $20-25 |
| Special Classes (Sexual Health, Poly, Jealousy) | $10 60 min class, $15 90 min class, $20 120 min class |
| Workshops (anything >2.5hrs) | $15-50 |

### Volunteer Credits

Event Volunteer Credits are $10

In order to make SPP accessible to everyone, acceptance of Volunteer Credits are STRONGLY ENCOURAGED. We are a community, not a source of income.  Copying a previous event can be done. Please make sure the date and time is updated.


# How to Level Up

Here is how you can make the most of your SexPositive Portland (SPP) experience:

In SPP, there’s a level for everyone! You may find that Level 1 and Level 2 events fill your cup quite nicely, while others find that Level 3 is their bliss! Here is an easy guide to understanding the leveling up process. Complete discriptions of the levels are described in [Levels 1-4 Explained](/resources/levels-explained).

# Non-Leveled

Once you have been accepted into membership, you can attend any Level 1 event. Until you've paid membership dues, you will not have a level. Your current level appears as a title next to your name on your SPP Meetup profile. Non-leveled members do not have a title.

# Level 1

You be be designated Level 1 once have paid your membership dues. You will have a "L1" title next to your name on your SPP Meetup profile (https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/profile/). It can take up to a week for the "L1" title to appear.

# Level 2

At Level 2 (L2), you can attend all of our amazing touch-positive events such as Massage-a-Trois, the Tantra Series, and Cuddle events.

To get to L2, you must have paid your yearly dues and completed the following classes and socials:

- Awesome Boundaries
- A Social (with the word "Social" in the title. Socials are defined as "inclusive social event of >15 people. Subgroup gatherings do not count.). 
- Orientation
- STARS
- Suggested: one other event designated L1. This can be an educational class or a discussion group.

The "SPP Membership" team will level you up within a week after you have attended these events.

If you have done these things and still don’t see an L2 by your name within a week after meeting the above requirements, reach out to the [Membership Retention Lead through the member name of "SPP Membership" on Meetup](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/189929146/) to let them know that you are ready.

# Level 3

Once you have actively attended Level 2 events, you may feel that you are ready and interested in exploring Level 3 (L3) events.

To get to L3, you must take the following steps: 

- You must attend at least two L3 or progressive L2/3 events with a sponsor. Sponsors are event specific and should be different for each event. [Use the Sponsor RSVP form.](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1PV5SaBRwOKn5FCVAglPW2FjmB72dpEom5SdGAWAjZ-g/viewform?edit_requested=true#start=invite "Sponsor RSVP form")
- Be current on your dues.
- Be able to give a STARS talk to your sponsor
- Have volunteered at or hosted an event.

Any L3 or L4 person can agree to sponsor you, provided they are not sexually active with you and do not intend to become so in the near future. Ask anyone you feel comfortable with, and don’t worry if you get a few rejections. The sponsor should know you well and feel comfortable recommending or not recommending you (with direct communication to you) for advancement.

- Your Sponsor cannot be a lover.
- Your Sponsor cannot be a Host of event.
- Your Sponsor cannot not have other Sponsees for said event.
- Your Sponsor should be different for each event.

Further details about the sponsor process can be found in [Sponsors: Who, What, Why and How](/resources/sponsors).

Once approved by the Membership Sponsor Lead, sign up for an L3 or a progressive L2-L3 event with your sponsor and notify the host of the event that you are attending with your sponsor. 

When the sponsor believes that you are ready, they will send a message to the Membership Sponsor Lead through the member name of "SPP Membership" proposing Level 3 status. The Membership Committee will either grant the status or make other recommendations.

It’s important to understand that L3 events are not suitable for everyone. Unclear personal boundaries, poor hygiene, lack of respect for others, unhealed trauma, and other personal issues that may affect other members negatively are all reasons to stick with L1/L2 events. The Membership Team has the responsibility to make level determinations. 

If you have attended several L3 events, as well as more lower level events, you may feel that you are ready and interested in exploring L4 events.

# Level 4
To get to L4, you must take the following steps: 
- Be current on your dues
- Have volunteered at or hosted multiple events.
- Attend events regularly, especially lower level events where you act as a supporter and encourager of newer members. 
- Have sponsored one or more people (suggested but not necessary).
- Be proficient at having the safer sex talk (STARS).
- Ask for it by contacting [SPP Membership](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/189929146/). The Membership Committee will either grant the status or make other recommendations.

# Maintaining L3 and L4 status:

- Be current on your dues.
- Volunteer at or host an event at any level at least once per year.
- Attend events at your level within your initial six months and once per year thereafter.
- Volunteer at or host at least one event at your level within the initial six months and once per year thereafter.


# SP members from other chapters:
- They will be given a temporary designation of L2 if they were L2 or higher.
- They need to attend a social to get to know members of our community. 
- They need to attend one core class (Awesome Boundaries, Orientation or Leveling UP) in SPP before moving to L3 if they were previously L3 or L4. 
- The process to L4 remains the same. Leveling up isn’t about past experience outside of SPP. The major factor is how any petitioning member is known in and viewed by the SPP community.
- However, they can be hosted to L3 and L4 events by a L3 or L4 member of SPP, regardless of their designation, if they have achieved L3 or L4, respectively, in another chapter.

# Leveling Up:

This process depends on you; it will move as quickly as you are motivated for it to move. For some, with openness and past experiences moving between levels may take a short time. A sponsor may assist in this process. Some individuals may take longer or want to stop at a level for a while, enjoy themselves, and build extra trust in their community before moving to another level.

For further explanation of the SPP levels please see the [Levels 1-4 Explained](/resources/levels-explained).


# Incident Report

Download the [incident report form](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Irf2bIpWXNp2Sl-h34RFuE65bMDBSPoPl9P7OKLDtv4/edit) and fill it out.  Submit it via Meetup to SPPConcerns.

---

__Here are the questions you'll find on the form__

Your Name: 
Email:
Date of Incident:
Member you are making complaint about:

- Boundary crossing related to touch or any type of sexual contact
- Boundary crossing related to communication
- Social Media
    - Trolling-communication with an unknown party that continues after boundaries are articulated
    - Continued verbal communication once boundaries have been articulated
    - Continued electronic communication once boundaries have been articulated
- Confidentiality violation (they shared information about you or outed you or a fellow member)
- Use of abusive, harassing or demeaning language about you or other members
- Spreading rumors
- Bad Hygiene
- Intoxication or drug use
- Leveling system violations

__Answering the following questions may help in filing a report__

How were your boundaries crossed?

Did you feel physically unsafe?

Did you feel emotionally unsafe?

Did you know your boundaries before they were crossed (many people only figure this out afterwards)?

Did you clearly articulate your boundaries before and/or after they were crossed?

Were you able to let the person know what they did (direct communication)? If not, why?

If you did, did you feel heard?

If you didn’t feel heard, why?

If you didn’t, could you now? (In writing, in person, with a third party present)

If not, why? How can we help you?

How would you approach this situation in the future?

Have you learned something from this?


__When you have completed the form please send it via a message on Meetup to SPPconcerns__


## Apply To SPP

__*Please understand the following before starting the application*__

We are a private group. That means only members can see your profile.

PLEASE FILL OUT ALL QUESTIONS FULLY AND COMPLETELY. Short answers mean that you have not read this and will be immediately denied.

The main things we seek in our members are:

* Understanding of sex-positivity. We are not a dating or hook-up group. We are a community.

* Related experience or learning (books, workshops, friendship circles). Total newbies will be considered, but you'll need to bring a lot of the next item.

* Enthusiasm and willingness to be a part of a community by volunteering or coming out to events regularly.

* We are not a hook-up group, a dating site or a place for swingers to play.

* We look for emotional maturity, social awareness, good communication styles and a willingness to grow.

* You must live within 60 miles of Portland or visit often.

* If you have a common name, please add your last name or an initial. We prefer real names, not aliases.

* You must be over 21.

* Couples must apply separately. Please reference each other in your individual applications.

* You must have a recognizable photo of your face, without sunglasses or a mask. The photo must show only you, without anyone else.

When you fill out your profile, know that that is what other members will see and how they'll decide if they want to be friends and/or play with you

Men, we love you and need you, but please understand, we get a lot more applications from single men than their female counterparts so, please be understanding if we bring an extra level of scrutiny.

Note: membership is managed by Meetup.com. The link below will take you to Meetup.com to signup to SPP. If you don't have a Meetup account, you will be instructed to create one.

[Take me to the application form!](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/?action=join)


# Leadership 

## The Directors
* Evelin Dacker, MD -- Executive Director [email evelinmd@gmail.com](mail:evelinmd@gmail.com)

  ![Evelin](//images.ctfassets.net/z60c05cc1iui/5QdbCLfjgW2iWYoSU8sayk/57447591a6ace1926ed561353d4a06ae/Evelin.jpeg)
* Amy Young-Leith -- Membership Director [contact through Meetup](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/8892248/)
![amy](//images.ctfassets.net/z60c05cc1iui/duGgLaKzp3Qys6AtbApVw/2b879fbd238fac87b93bfee3d5428f4e/amy.jpeg)
* Davina Bookbinder -- Programming Director [contact through Meetup](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/210136977/)
![davina](//images.ctfassets.net/z60c05cc1iui/4CLavq4bAcT5HMngCoze95/61370af69dcee512416f7724c0cc03c6/davina.jpg)
  

## SPP Board

[SPP Board Page](/board)

## Membership Team
* SPP Membership - General questions (Amy)
  * [contact through Meetup](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/189929146/)
  * [sppmembership@gmail.com](mail:sppmembership@gmail.com)
* Leveling 1-2 - Specific questions regarding leveling up to L2 (Adam, Moxley) 
  * [contact through Meetup](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/189929146/) 
* SPP Sponsorship (Pamela) - Specific questions for leveling sponsorships.
  * [contact through Meetup](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/248727576/)
  * [sppsponsor@gmail.com](mail:sppsponsor@gmail.com)

## Membership Concerns & Care Committee (MC3)

SPP Concerns: [sppconcerns@gmail.com](mail:sppconcerns@gmail.com)

## Volunteering

SPP Volunteering: [spvolunteerguru@gmail.com](mail:spvolunteerguru@gmail.com)

## Ambassadors

SPP Ambassadors: [via Meetup](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/270031341/)

## Events

So you would like to suggest an event idea? If you are an presentor who is not a member of SPP and would like to teach or present to us, please submit requests to our lovely Programming Director, Davina Bookbinder, [davinabookbinder@gmail.com](mail:davinabookbinder@gmail.com).

# Leveling

* About Leveling
  * [Levels 1-4 Explained](/resources/levels-explained)
  * [How to Level Up](/resources/how-to-level-up)
  * [Leveling Up Checklist](/resources/leveling-up-checklist)
  * [Positively Kinky Leveling System](/resources/positively-kinky-leveling)
* Leveling up to L3
  * [Sponsors: Who, What, Why and How](/resources/sponsors)
  * [Leveling to L3: Let us know your sponsor](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1PV5SaBRwOKn5FCVAglPW2FjmB72dpEom5SdGAWAjZ-g/viewform?edit_requested=true#start=invite)
  * [L3 Sponsors: Give feedback about a sponsee](/resources/sponsor-feedback)


# Leveling Up Checklist

The requirements for leveling up are explained in "Levels 1-4 Explained."  But let’s be honest... nothing beats a good old fashioned checklist when you’re working to plan and navigate your path. Do not fear the requirements; fellow members and leadership are here to help you navigate the process and achieve your goals.

Download a [printable check list here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Sc91sQFPVt3lhW49JzSc5BjwVguuM3ngeyxQRit_xno/edit)!


## L1
*Social/Educational L1 events are open to members and non-members alike.*

To be considered L1:
- Show up to an open public or L1 event
- Pay dues

## L2
*Sensual events*

To move to L2 you must complete:
- Be current on your dues
- Awesome Boundaries class
- One Social (any inclusive event >15 people called “Social”)
- Orientation
- STARS class
- Recommend: One other event designated L1. This can be an educational class or a discussion group.

## L3 
*Sexy events!*

To move to L3 you must complete:
- Be current on your dues
- Attend at least two L3 events with a sponsor. (See calendar for which L3 events allow L2s with sponsors.)
- Be able to give a STARS talk to your sponsor.
- Positive Feedback from Sponsor is required.
(You MUST [complete the sponsor form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1PV5SaBRwOKn5FCVAglPW2FjmB72dpEom5SdGAWAjZ-g/viewform?edit_requested=true#start=invite "Sponsor form") and let SPP Sponsor know via Meetup messaging PRIOR to attending each event who your sponsor is.)

## L4
*Sexual*

To move to L4 you must complete:
- Be current on your dues
- Have volunteered at or hosted multiple events
- Attend events regularly, especially lower level events where you act as a supporter and encourager of newer members
- Have sponsored one or more people (suggested but not necessary)
- Be good at STARS talk
- Ask for it by contacting CEO [Evelin Dacker](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/188600726/) or [SPP Membership](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/189929146/). The Membership Committee will either grant the status or make other recommendations

## L3 & L4 Maintenance

- Be current on your dues
- Volunteer at or host an event at any level at least once per year
- Attend events at your level within your initial six months and once per year thereafter
- Volunteer at or host at least one event at your level within the initial six months and once per year thereafter.

# Levels 1-4 Explained

SexPositive Portland events are coded Levels 1 through 4.

The posted level for an event indicates the maximum level of activity that may take place at that event. This is to ensure that you never attend an event with activities that exceed your comfort zone. Also, know that you will not be allowed to attend events above the level you have been approved for (to learn how to move from one level to the next, see [How To Level Up](/resources/how-to-level-up).

Rest assured, you will NEVER be expected to do anything that is not a “Hell Yes!” for you, no matter what level event you attend, no matter what anyone else is doing, and no matter what you may have done previously with any particular person. No means no, and all activity must be fully consensual.

## Level 1 - Social/Educational

You will start at L1 and can attend any events that are designated L1. We encourage you to attend many L1 events in the beginning in order to get a feel for the group, meet people you like and who like you, create trust, and build new relationships with your fellow members. Events are open to all members and non-members alike. Feel free to bring friends, family and co-workers. Come to as many L1 events as you can to make friends and learn about our organization.

L1 events include workshops, classes, wine or coffee socials, plays, outings to shows, etc. A greeting hug is the most physical contact you can have at this event.

## Level 2 - Sensual

This level is all about getting touch needs met in a platonic and playful context. Sadly, the vast majority of people never receive the amount of nurturing and affectionate touch that is needed to keep them happy and healthy, and/or touch that is free of a sexuality agenda. 

L2 events often include snuggle parties, experiential workshops, and massage trades. You cannot bring friends who are not L2 or above members. To be at this level you must have attended a Social, and have completed Orientation, Awesome Boundaries, and STARS classes. After these core classes are completed and your dues are paid, as an L2, you should be able to recognize and understand your own comfort level, show effective demonstration of your boundaries, and have a knowledge of your wants, needs and desires. You should be starting to use and further developing your sexual safety talk (STARS).

*Exception: the event host or facilitator has the authority to approve a guest under certain circumstances.*

After you've attended your orientation, you have 60 days to pay your annual dues. Payment of dues are required for becoming L2.

## Level 3 - Sexy!

At L3, you will be playing in sexual energy and getting really excited - but not engaging in penetrative sex or intentional orgasms. This level presents great opportunities to practice consent and communication; to recognize, respect and express boundaries; to explore things you are curious about in a safe environment; and to delve deeply into what moves you. Feel we're leaving this a bit vague? Well, we are.

Level 3 events are very special events where deep connection and incredible fun is possible. Therefore, they are a privilege which we reserve for members who have paid their dues and are active in the community. The Event Host and/or Leadership (volunteers who take their job of keeping members safe and keeping the group awesome) have the responsibility and final decision on whether a member can attend an event, and may refuse inclusion in activities, even IF the member has the proper designation next to their name. This is seldom the case, but we reserve the right to do this.

During the posted hours for an event, members must agree to not engage in any activity that exceeds the stated level of the event. The event host and/or facilitator acts as monitor to assure this, but your participation is needed.

Please be aware that if you attend member-hosted events or events that are cross-posted (e.g., posted on more than one Meetup group board or on Facebook), SPP cannot ensure the quality of your experience or the caliber of other attendees. For instance, if you go to a public place or private party where some of our members are meeting, do not expect that the same Care, Consent, Confidentiality, or Level system will apply.

Finally, please note that it's your responsibility to pay attention to levels and to not attend anything that would be too much of a stretch for you or your relationships.

## Level 4 - Deeper Community
This level is for members who are deeply embedded into our SPP community and is granted on a case by case basis. For more information about events at this level please attend an Orientation or contact [Leadership](/contacts).


### Now that you understand our Level system - go have fun!

## Membership
* [Join SPP](/join)
* Edit [your profile](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/profile/)
* [Pay your dues](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/pay_dues/) – If your card doesn’t charge, make sure your card is still active! Meetup won’t tell you if it isn’t.

## Events

* [Calendar - See the full calendar pages all at once](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/events/calendar/)
* [Upcoming Events](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/events/)
* [Past Events](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/events/past/)

## Public Facebook Page

https://www.facebook.com/sexpositiveportland/


# Member Best Practices

This page is obsolete. See [/resources/code-of-conduct](Code of Conduct) instead.

# Member Communication Agreement

Because we are in community and are actively creating a culture of care, confidentiality and consent, when disagreements arise we deal with them swiftly, open heartedly and maturely. To foster a loving and drama-free environment, we agree to the following:

* All communications are voluntary and consensual (meaning free of coercion, harassment, or pressure).
* We will directly communicate with members that we need to resolve issues.
* We will seek assistance to help us directly communicate with others if needed. We will do this by contacting [SPP Concerns](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/249010430/).
* We will not talk negatively about each other, participate in gossip, repeat hearsay, or build coalitions to gain support against other members.
* We will strive to remain open to constructive criticism, thanking people who bring us direct feedback.
* SPP social media forums, such as the private SPP Facebook group and the Meetup event group discussions are not an arena to air grievances or concerns about a specific person. *ALL such posts will be removed by the Administrator or moderator. Any person who posts such items will be directed to submit their concerns to the MCCC via [SPP Concerns](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/249010430/).*
* As much as possible, we agree to talk about and listen through issues in a constructive and caring manner.
* We will avoid using blaming language or language that includes a diagnosis of someone else. We strive to talk from our own observations of what happened, how that affected us, and to say how we wish to be treated in the future.
* Other than speaking briefly to another member to help clarify our own thoughts and feelings or speaking to the facilitator or host of the event where the conflict or concern happened, we will not share our concerns about other members, including Leadership and Board members, outside of the MCCC.
* Concerns that cannot be well-addressed directly by the parties involved can be directed to the MCCC via [SPP Concerns](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/249010430/). 
* If neccesary, please complete the [Member Incident Report](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScPDLfkV0GAk942cKzPUu3gEyl52Dr7E_oUwf4UPlFTQ1z0nw/viewform). 
* If one party is unable to be present at a mediation, for whatever reason, they should send a letter outlining their position; and it will be taken under consideration. However, we strongly desire that members be present unless it would be grievously injurious to them (i.e., more than uncomfortable or inconvenient). 
* All forms and concerns will be filed for future reference.
* Members will be advised of the Leadership decisions and agree to abide by them or leave the group. 
* We know that perfect solutions are hard to come by, so we agree to be as forgiving and understanding as possible, both with the people involved and the people assisting in any conflict resolution. 

# Tools

* Edit [your profile](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/profile/)
* [Pay your dues](https://www.sexpositiveportland.org/dues)

## Public Facebook Page

https://www.facebook.com/sexpositiveportland/


# New Member FAQs

## I have applied but haven't been accepted yet...why not?
We like to have fun without reservation, so we take membership very seriously! Keeping this community growing and connecting positively takes work. Membership approval depends on your openness in answering the questions, whether you are a good fit with our community, whether you included an actual photo of yourself, and membership balance (gender, orientation, experiences, skills you can lend to the group, etc.) If you are waiting more than a week, please consider learning more about the group by reviewing this site (what we're about), messaging with more detail in your answers to the questions, adding a photo of yourself, highlighting your assets/skills/experiences/orientation-fluidity, and/or joining with a female friend.

## I'm in! Where do I start?

Read the following:

* [Care & Confidentiality Commitment](/resources/care-and-confidentiality-commitment)
* [Code of Conduct](/resources/code-of-conduct)
* [Levels Explained](/resources/levels-explained)
* [Volunteering](/resources/volunteering)

Basically all the information that members learn about SPP is in [Resources](/resources).

Look at the [Calendar](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/events/calendar/) and RSVP to as many Level 1 events as you can/would like to attend - especially Orientation, Awesome Boundaries, STARS, and one of our Socials (only RSVP if you are able to attend).

Attend as many Level 1 events as possible (unRSVP as soon as you realize you can't attend an event). Attending events gets you into the community, making friends/connections and learning about sex positivity!

Attend Orientation as soon as you can to learn the nitty gritty of SPP! (P.S. - this is necessary to level up to Level 2, along with paying your [dues](https://www.sexpositiveportland.org/dues)).

## I've attended some events, why am I not leveling up?
Be sure to check [How to Level Up](/resources/how-to-level-up) to see if you are attending the required events to level up and don't forget to pay your [dues](https://www.sexpositiveportland.org/dues). You can always message [SPP Membership](/contacts) for more information.

## I don't understand all this level stuff. Can anyone help me?
Of course! Our [Leadership Team](/contacts) is here to help you navigate the levels and feel safely welcome in the group as you experience the community and grow. Go to a Social or Orientation! Ask an event facilitator or Ambassador! Leadership wear badges at events so feel free to ask any one of them to help you out! Only contact designated leadership (Event Hosts, Ambassadors, Board Members) or members you have met in person. We do not allow trolling of our members.

## Can I bring non-members to events?
You can bring non-members to Level 1 events, public events, and outings. Level 2 and above events are for paid level-appropriate members only. Friends who have been active in the sex positive community (educators, therapists, known-kinksters/BDSM/community members, etc.) might be able to attend depending on the event and on a case-by-case basis (depending on event-type, venue size, etc.). Contact the event host or a leader to address specific situations.

## I've been a member of other sex positive communities before, do I need to attend every event on the [Leveling Up Checklist](/resources/leveling-up-checklist), or can I fast track?

The levelling system is not only there to educate you in the ways of sex-positivity. It is also in place in order to create a safe container for all of our members. By holding to the leveling system, we ensure that you get to know our community and vice versa. We want to make sure you feel well integrated with our community and that the community feels comfortable with you. So even if you are an expert in all things sex-positive, if the community does not know you, it would be inappropriate for you to attend higher levels events. There are rare cases where someone is well known in our community though has not been officially part of SPP. These exceptionally rare cases are handled with great care by our [Leadership Team](/contacts). While some exceptions are made, the general rule is everyone goes through the system the same way to create an equal, fair community.

## My partner has been attending events as my +1, why is s/he not leveling up?

We track attendance by RSVPs. If your partner is not RSVP'd themselves, they may not get credit for attending. Individual memberships are the best way to ensure you get credit for every event you attend and level up at the pace that is healthy/safe for you. If your partner or friend has been attending events as a +1 please encourage them to apply and officially join SPP. Once they do so, they need to communicate to [SPP Membership](/contacts) which classes they have attended so they can get proper credit for leveling.

## How do I submit events, suggestions, or complaints?

Events - Anyone with Event Organizer privileges can draft an event for approval. Please read the [Event Organizer section of the website](/resources/event-organizer) to learn how to post events. In addition, you can always suggest an event to our [Events Coordinator](/contacts)!

Suggestions for the group - policies, subgroups, etc. should be sent to the [Leadership Team](/contacts) and directed to the most appropriate group. For example, if your suggestion pertains to events, send them to the Events Coordinator. Suggestions for an existing event should be submitted to the Event Host.

Complaints should be brought to the attention of the event host if they are about the event itself or behavior at an event (or to someone in Leadership, like an Ambassador, if the host is part of the complaint). At the beginning of each event the host(s) should introduce themselves and identify members of leadership present, so you know who to go to with questions, attendance/membership issues, leveling up information, or any other/issues or concerns that may arise during an event. Also, members of Leadership wear badges so they are easy to identify at events. Please, for your own safety and the health of our community, do not brush safety or boundary concerns aside. Bring them up to leadership right away. For more details please see our [Resolving Member Complaints section](/resources/resolving-member-complaints).

## What is "trolling?"

When you contact someone out of the blue without first meeting them in person this is called trolling. We don’t allow trolling. We are not OKCupid or Tinder. We expect our members to respect each other and our policies, and our members thank us again and again for upholding them. 

If you message someone by mistake (they aren’t the person you had a 10-minute conversation with at an event — the wrong “Jenny” if you will) just apologize and move on. If you keep the conversation going without them knowing you and they let us know, we become concerned that you may not understand the policies and could continue to, knowingly or unknowingly, disrespect our members. Please review the guidelines to better understand this and other policies.

The only exception to this policy is if you have pertinent questions for Leadership. You may contact Leadership through Meetup. Please note that they will have special designations next to their Level status, for example: 'L4, Ambassador' or 'L4, Board Member.' Also, if someone is a designated [sponsor](/resources/sponsors) and you want them to sponsor you for an event you may contact them through Meetup as well.

# Obtaining Volunteers

1. If you need 1 or 2 typical volunteers (set up, check in, clean up) and are hosting an event that's never had volunteers before (unlike our core classes/socials or regular events) please post the request in the #events-volunteer channel with the date & title of your event.
2. If you need volunteers for other duties at your event please contact the Volunteer Lead directly either through Slack or [Meetup](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/members/250804144/profile/?returnPage=1)  or [SPVolunteerGuru@gmail.com](mailto:SPVolunteerGuru@gmail.com)

## Sign-Up Genius (SUG)

1. Make sure that you have a log-in to SUG, if not, reach out to Volunteer Lead as shown above. 
2. When the notification for SUG comes out in the beginning of the month, it is your responsibility to go in and make sure that the number of volunteers you need is correct. 
3. At least 3 days prior to your event, check SUG to see who your volunteer is. 
4. The Volunteer Coordinator is NOT responsible for obtaining or informing you of your volunteers. 

## What to do if your event does not have Volunteers: 

1. Place an ask on the discussion for that specific event. 
2. Place an ask on the Private FaceBook group. 
3. Ask people who are attending 
4. Ask your SPP friends.


# Positively Sexy!!!

![positively-sexy-party-poster](https://moxicon-public.s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/media/positively-sexy-party-poster.jpg)

Join us in celebrating our ten year anniversary with the sexiest party of the year.

Sensual performances, Portland's sexiest DJ's, and theme rooms for experiencing a taste of what SexPositive Portland has to offer will make for a tantalizing evening.

Get a room and create your own after-party with old and new friends.

Enjoy our Naked Sushi Buffet and enjoy your dinner from one of our two gorgeous platters - you choose between a man or a woman, or choose both!

DJ Manoj and DJ Sappho will close out the evening with booty-shaking cuts.

[Click here to purchase tickets on Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/positively-sexy10-year-anniversary-party-of-spp-at-the-jupiter-hotel-tickets-63361413694)

# Positively Kinky (PK) Leveling Up - a subgroup of SPP


There is no longer a separate leveling system for the Positively Kinky subgroup. Instead one who completes the requirements will simply receive a __"K"__ designation next to their Level designation. 


__There will be classes open to any SPP L2 member which will be social / educational with no kink play of any sort. Restricted events will be open only to those with a "K" designation.__

## "K" Requirements:

- Complete Kink 101
- Complete Boundaries and Negotiation for BDSM
- Complete Safety in BDSM
- Be approved by Kink Events Leader and Membership Committee Leader

# RSVP Agreement

Event coordinators plan on accommodating those who RSVP “Yes”, so please remember that your RSVP counts!

Out of respect for the lovely hosts, volunteers, and attendees of events: if you must cancel your attendance to an event, please change your RSVP on the event's page on Meetup immediately. Avoid canceling within two hours of any event.

In case of emergency that occurs within two hours of the event please call, text, or message the event host in addition to changing your RSVP.

If you make a habit of failing to show up for events without notice, or of canceling very late, you may be un-RSVP'd from waitlisted events or dropped from the group.

We appreciate your cooperation in this matter.

Thank you!

# Member Resources

## Member Account

* Not a member yet? [Click here to apply](/join)
* [Edit your profile](https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/profile/)
* [Pay your dues](https://www.sexpositiveportland.org/dues) – As of end of November 2019 we no longer process dues via Meetup. Please follow this link to learn how to pay your dues. 

## Information and Tools

* [New Member FAQs](/resources/new-member-faqs)
* [Code of Conduct](/resources/code-of-conduct)
* [Leveling Information](/resources/leveling)
* [Leveling Sponsor Resources](/resources/sponsors)
* [Recommended Reading List](/resources/reading-list)
* [STARS Info and Resources](/stars)
* [Volunteering](/resources/volunteering)
* [Member Concerns and Complaints](/resources/concerns-and-complaints)
* [The SPP Board](/board)
* [Leadership](/leadership)
* [Event Accounting for Coordinators](/resources/event-accounting)


## Board Members

The board members are listed in [Who's Who](/about/whos-who).

## Meeting Notes

* [2019 Q4 Meeting Summary](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1OJ_pUHlVbXw6Zh6WSL-IMmSksb6O4PuUhePy5a0RQG0/edit?usp=sharing)
* [2019 Q3 Meeting Summary](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1s136fD6UzcJR2kvP5oZCSEQXXoO_ycQblNFq1GrN-yc/edit?usp=sharing)
* [2019 Q2 Meeting Summary](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1TX4ol_2nBAfAkt7DcVe_M_gug5Uz2c2asZ6M67MGFzQ/edit?usp=sharing)
* [2018 Q2 Meeting Minutes](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1sQfHpNaTKjK0DZSb6kWiUKF5wSYlHBXP6-YTzYYOXV8/edit?usp=sharing)
* [2018 Q1 Meeting Minutes](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1d15xuh5WhBB7Co8RWral0eqBMJHyt57AZ-8E6JjzpGE/edit?usp=sharing)


### [Board Responsibilities](https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vRvAssOUQe8GEa10h6NCi9ozkxkdIKMF0-NOqLvUvbmJSsrBjV7IHJM4VAGIizFVBpuHlOs05Yt4X2a/pub "Board Responsibilities")


SEX POSITIVE GLOSSARY OF TERMS 
Tanya Jarvik, M.A., David Tovey, M.D, SPP Community

[A](#A) B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R [S](#S) T U V W X Y Z

### A
- __Ableism__: Discrimination in favor of able-bodied people.
- __Ace/Asexual__: An individual who does not experience sexual attraction to anyone, and has little or no interest in, or desire for, sexual activity. Asexuality can be considered as a lack of sexual orientation. 
- __AFAB__: Assigned female at birth. Biological sex rather than gender.
- Agender: An individual who has no gender identity, or sometimes a person with a non-binary gender identity.
- __Alloromantic__: An individual who experiences romantic attraction; someone who is not aromantic.
- __Allosexual__: An individual who experiences sexual attraction; someone who is not asexual.
- __AMAB__: Assigned male at birth.
- __Aro/Aromantic__: An individual who does not experience romantic attraction to anyone, and has little or no interest in, or desire for, romantic relationships. Aromanticism can be considered as a lack of romantic orientation. 
- __BDSM__: This acronym stands for a group of erotic activities including bondage and discipline, domination and submission, and sadism and masochism. There are distinct subcultures under this umbrella term.
- __Cisgender__ (abbreviated cis): A term used to describe people whose gender identity matches the sex they were assigned at birth. 
- __Compersion__: The feeling of joy experienced when a loved one takes joy in another relationship, or the feeling of love experienced when witnessing a loved one loving another person; contrasted with jealousy.
- __Couple privilege__: The societal advantages conferred on a pair bonded lovers, such as being invited to dinner parties with other couples, never being alone on holidays, etc.
- __Consent__: When one person voluntarily agrees to the proposal or desires of another. Consent is freely given, reversible, informed, and specific. 
- __Demisexual__: An individual who may experience sexual attraction after a close emotional connection is formed. Demisexuality is on the “gray-sexuality” spectrum between asexuality and sexuality.
- __Dental dam__: Medical supply used as a safer sex barrier during cunnilingus.
- __Dom/sub (D/s)__: In Kink or BDSM, these terms refer to individuals who are more dominant or submissive. While “Top/bottom” are similar concepts, people who identify as Doms or subs are embracing psychological roles and playing with power dynamics. 
- __Ecosexual__: A person who imagines the Earth as their lover. Someone who finds nature romantic, sensual and sexy.
- __Edgeplay__: In BDSM, this term is used for activities that may result in short- or long-term health consequences or are considered dangerous within the kink community. Examples include erotic asphyxiation, knife play, and fire play. When individuals are aware of the health risks and choose to engage despite potential bodily harm, these activities would be considered RACK (Risk-Aware Consensual Kink). 
- __Enby__: A person who does not subscribe to the notion of binary (female or male) binary. Enby is the pronunciation of NB for non-binary. Non-binary people may identify as both female and male, neither female nor male, somewhere on a spectrum from feminine to masculine, or outside such a spectrum altogether. 
- __Fluid bonding__: Engaging in sexual activities without the use of condoms or barriers. Usually applies to insertive vaginal or anal sex; usually does not apply to kissing, even though kissing technically involves sharing body fluids. It is a controversial term, in that it is often associated with hierarchical relationships. 
- __Genderfluid__: A gender identity that varies over time, either randomly or in response to different circumstances. 
- __Genderqueer__: Describes individuals who do not subscribe to conventional gender distinctions; they may identify as neither male nor female, or as a combination of both. 
- __Gray ace__: Someone on the spectrum between asexuality and sexuality. Sometimes shortened to grace.
- __Harm reduction__: A range of public health policies designed to reduce the harmful consequences of behaviors such as recreational drug use or engaging in high-risk sexual activities. 
- __Heteronormativity__: The belief that people fall into distinct and complementary genders, based on biological sex, and that men and women have natural roles in life. In this view, sexual and marital relations should be between members of opposite sexes.
- __Hierarchical polyamory__: The practice of having multiple lovers, with one lover identified as primary, and others as secondary. Primary partners typically have higher status and enjoy privileges not given to secondary partners. For example, primary partners may be fluid bonded only with each other, reserve holidays for only each other, have ‘veto power’ over secondary relationships, etc. 
- __Intersectional__: The intersection of multiple forms of discrimination. Intersectionality describes overlapping or intersecting social identities and related systems of oppression, domination, or discrimination.
- __Intersex__: A general term for any one of several conditions in which a person is born with reproductive or sexual anatomy that doesn’t seem to fit typical definitions of female or male. 
- __Kinky__: Involving or given to unusual sexual behavior. Kink and BDSM are often used interchangeably to describe these behaviors, although the former term encompasses a wider array of preferences and practices. 
- __Monogamish__: This term was first coined by the columnist Dan Savage, and has since caught on in the media. It applies to committed couples who have an agreement that they can pursue sexual or romantic interactions with others, usually within carefully prescribed limits. 
- __Nesting partner (NP)__: In various forms of ethical non-monogamy, this refers to a partner with whom one shares housing. Often a nesting partner is also considered a “primary” partner.
- __Non-monogamy__: Refers to several different types of interpersonal relationships in which some or all participants have multiple marital, sexual, or romantic partners. See also “polyamory”, “relationship anarchy”, “swinging”. Ethical non-monogamy or consensual non-monogamy (CNM) differs from cheating or infidelity in that everyone involved has freely and explicitly agreed to this open form of relating.
- __Pansexual__: Someone who experiences sexual attraction to individuals of any sex, gender, or gender identity. Unlike the term “bisexual”, which suggests that there are only two genders (male and female), the term “pansexual” locates sexual orientation outside the gender binary. 
- __Polyamory__: A relationship structure in which individuals may have more than one intimate partner, with the knowledge and consent of all partners involved. It can be described as consensual, ethical, or responsible non-monogamy. 
- __Primary__: A polyamorous person’s most favored partner. See: hierarchical polyamory.
- __Relationship Anarchy (RA)__: The practice of forming relationships that are not bound by rules except those mutually agreed upon by the people involved. 
- <a id="S">S</a>
- __Sapiosexual__: Someone attracted to highly intelligent people. This is a controversial term; some see it as “ableist”, since intelligence is a highly subjective quality. 
- __Secondary__: A polyamorous person’s non-primary partner. See: hierarchical polyamory.
- __Sex worker__: The preferred term for someone who provides erotic and/or sexual services in exchange for money. 
- __Skoliosexual__: Someone attracted to transgender or non-binary/genderqueer people.
- __Solo poly__: A term used to describe polyamorous people who don’t pair bond.
- __STARS__: An acronym that stands for STI status, Turn-ons, Avoids, Relationship intentions/expectations, and Safer sex etiquette. Having a “STARS talk” with potential sexual partners is a way to obtain informed consent before engaging in specific activities.
- __STI__: Acronym for “sexually transmitted infection”. Replaces the outdated “STD” (sexually transmitted disease).
- __Swinging__: A non-monogamous behavior in which couples engage sexually with others as a recreational or social activity. The swinger community sometimes refers to this practice as “The Lifestyle”.
- __Switch__: In Kink or BDSM, a person who is comfortable taking on the role of Top or bottom, Dom or sub.
- __Top/Bottom__: In Kink or BDSM, these terms are used to distinguish the person leading the action (the Top) and the person receiving the action (the bottom). See also “Dom/sub”.
- __Transgender__: An adjective used to describe people whose gender identity, expression, or behavior is different from what would be expected given the sex they were assigned at birth. Not all transgender people are transsexuals – in other words, there are people who identify as transgender who have no interest in hormone treatment or other medical procedures. 
- __Vanilla__: A term used by those in the BDSM community to describe non-kinky people or non-kinky sexual activities.
- __Veto power__: In hierarchical polyamory, the practice of allowing one’s primary partner to veto (refuse to grant permission, or take back their previously granted permission to engage in) one’s relationship with a potential or existing secondary partner.

# STARS Safer Sex Talk Worksheet

[Download a Word version of this document](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vEgAjYtcxRVHGvY-CDorF5htER_O86wJm345W2u07Fw/edit "STARS worksheet") with attractive formatting

Visit [www.maketimeforthetalk.com](https://www.maketimeforthetalk.com "www.maketimeforthetalk.com") for even more information.

# Sexually Transmitted Infections
The last time I was tested for STIs was:

I was tested for the following and my results were (please note if tested at different times):


|            |            |            |            |            |
| ---------- | ---------- | ---------- | ---------- | ---------- |
| GC/Chlamydia Genital       | Positive       | Negative       |    Not tested    |
| GC/Chlamydia Throat       | Positive       | Negative       | Not tested       |
| GC/Chlamydia Anal       | Positive       | Negative       | Not tested       |
| HSV 1 blood test       | Positive       | Negative       | I have this       | Anti-viral       |
| HSV 2 blood test       | Positive       | Negative       | I have this       | Anti-viral       |
| HIV 1/2       | Positive       | Negative       | I have this       | PrEP       |
| Syphilis       | Positive       | Negative       |         |
| Hepatitis B       | Positive       | Negative       | Immunized       |
| Hepatitis C       | Positive       | Negative       | Immunized       |
| HPV with my Pap Test*       | Positive       | Negative       | Immunized       |

**The pap test is done without HPV testing below the age of 30 in people with cervixes. The HPV test can also be done on anal tissue for people who have receptive sex. There is no test available for men who only have insertive sex  at this time.*


I get tested every:

- I am only sexually active with one person
- I have not been sexually active since my last test
- Get tested before every new partner
- 3 months
- 6 months
- Yearly

My risk factors include:
- I am sexually active with men who have sex with other men.
- I have multiple sexual partners
- I use needles for drugs
- Sex Work (for money or drugs)
- Time incarcerated or with incarcerated partner
- I am under 25 years old
- I don’t use barriers for penetration (oral, genital, anal)
- I have (had) a partner with Herpes type 2
- I have (had) a partner with HIV

*__How about you?__*


# Turn-Ons

My erogenous zones are:

I like to be caressed lightly/firmer here:

A sexual fantasy I’d like to explore is:

I like my vulva/penis referred to as:

I like it when my partner does this to me:

I enjoy doing this to my partner:

Some things I would like to explore are:

My ideal sexual life would be:

My best sexual experience was:

I usually engage/enjoy/prefer in this type of sexual activity the most: Insertive or Receptive / Oral, Genital, Anal

# Avoids
A big turn-off is when someone does:

Right now I am not interested in:

Something that happened that I didn’t like was:

Ejaculation fluid preferences:

My choices about sex and menstruation (blood) are:

My worst sexual experience was:
or
I have certain triggers they are:

I do not like to be touched like:

__Other Things to Consider:__
- Feelings about pornography, sex toy and props:
- Desire for “Vanilla” or “Kink” sex and what that means for you.
- Use of alcohol, marijuana, other recreational drug use and sex.
- Frequency, pacing and duration of sexual encounters. Talking/Noise during sex.
- Receptive/Insertive/Top/Bottom preferences. Don’t make assumptions based on perceived gender.

# Relationship Intentions/Expectations 
*Who am I and what I desire with you*

My sexual orientation is:

My gender orientation is and my preferred gender pronouns are:

I am Monogamous/Polyamorous/Something else all together

I am Partnered/Single

If partnered, is it an open relationship?
My partner(s) is/are -gender-:
My agreements with my partner(s) is/are:

I am looking for a relationship/a hook-up/something else WITH YOU:

After “encounter” desires:
Communication- form (text, email, calls), how often
Social Media presence

Tonight I would like to:

# Safer Sex Etiquette

For safer sex I use barriers with: Oral/ Penetrative, Toys

I do not use barriers for:

My barriers include: condoms, dental dams, gloves.

I use anti-viral medications/would like my partners to use prophylactic anti-viral meds

Do you want children?

What is your ideal method of birth control?

What are your ideas/thoughts if an unintended pregnancy were to occur?

# STARS: Make Time For The Talk

### What is STARS?
STARS is an easy-to-remember acronym that helps to begin a conversation leading to consensual great sex. 

#### *STARS stands for STI Status, Turn-On’s, Avoids, Relationship Intentions and STI Etiquette.*

STARS was created by our CEO, Evelin Dacker, MD. By using STARS, you create a safe space for talking about subjects we often keep to ourselves, so… Make Time For The Talk!

Think of it as a way to check in with yourself about your needs, desires, boundaries, and any other aspects of your sexuality that are important for you and your partner to understand. 

STARS is such a big part of SPP culture that learning it is required for moving through [our leveling system](/members/leveling).

## STARS Resources

- [Dr. Evelin Dacker's TEDx Talk on STARS](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=06Z6mKMGq4M "Evelin Dacker, MD STARS TEDx Talk")
- [STARS Home on the Web: Make Time For The Talk](http://maketimeforthetalk.com/ "STARS: Make Time For The Talk")
- [STARS Worksheet, Long Version](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vEgAjYtcxRVHGvY-CDorF5htER_O86wJm345W2u07Fw "STARS Long Worksheet")
- [STARS Worksheet, Shorter Version](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ownG1Hx6Ykk2-GbZ21b6le5VOWf0qYXeAH7-o2oHpTY/edit "STARS Short Worksheet")
- [STI Testing Recommendations](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1V_C0mKvo5CZ9w9xur3sCS1z1XWhXsgtnkpmpTNrFRwM/ "STI Testing Recommendations")
- [Portland Area Sex Positive Therapists/Educators/Counselors/Providers](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1fqajq5k6WV3s8T6xpp80asDqoh83IFbnnzElvecyOyM/ "Portland Area Sex Positive Therapists/Educators/Counselors/Providers")

- [SIECUS](http://siecus.org/ "SIECUS") - Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States
- [AASECT](http://www.aasect.org/ "AASECT") - American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists
- [Go Ask Alice](http://www.goaskalice.columbia.edu/ "Go Ask Alice") - Columbia University’s Health Education Program
- [World Professional Association for Transgender Health](http://www.wpath.org/ "WPATH") - This organization was formerly known as HBIGDA.
- [International Professional Surrogates Association](http://www.surrogatepartners.org/ "surrogatepartners.org")
- [Lifestyles Organization](http://www.lifestyles.org/ "lifestyles.org")
- [Metropolitan Community Church](http://www.mccportland.com/ "mccportland.com")
- [Miss Vera’s Cross-Dressing Academy](http://www.missvera.com/ "missvera.com")
- [Oregon Bears](https://www.oregonbears.org "oregonbears.org")
- [Parents & Friends of Lesbians & Gays (PFLAG)](http://www.pflagpdx.org/ "pflagpdx.org")
- [Planned Parenthood Federation of America](http://www.ppfa.org/ "ppfa.org")
- [Radical Faeries (Portland Chapter)](https://www.facebook.com/groups/46915460987/ "Radical Faeries")
- [SexualHealth.com](http://www.sexualhealth.com/ "sexualhealth.com")
- [Society for Human Sexuality](http://www.sexuality.org/ "sexuality.org")
- [Society for the Scientific Study of Sexuality](http://www.sexscience.org/ "sexscience.org")
- [The Kama Sutra Temple](http://www.tantra.org/ "tantra.org")
- [The Kinsey Institute](http://www.kinseyinstitute.org/ "kinseyinstitute.org")
- [World Association for Sexology](http://www.worldsexology.org/ "worldsexology.org")
- [The Kink Aware Professionals Directory](https://ncsfreedom.org/resources/kink-aware-professionals-directory/kap-directory-homepage.html "Kink Aware Professionals") - Therapists, Counselors
- [Center for Sex and Culture](http://www.sexandculture.org/ "sexandculture.org"), San Francisco, CA - Provides sex-positive classes, workshops, social gatherings, and hands-on, practical skills-building events. Mission statement, upcoming events, background
- [The Center for Sex Positive Culture](http://thecspc.org/ "thecspc.org"), Seattle - They do the annual, Seattle Erotic Arts Festival (SEAF)


*If you know of other organizations that should be on here, please let us know. Thank you.*


## Gabriella's Reading Recommendations:

- Anapol, Taj, revised (1997), *Polyamory: The New Love Without Limits*. IntiNet Resource Center.
- Barratt, Barnaby B., (2004), *Sexual Health and Erotic Freedom*. Xlibris Corporation
- Bornstein, Kate, (1995) *Gender Outlaw: On Men, Women, and the Rest of Us*. Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group.
- Bram, Christopher, (2012) *Eminent Outlaws: The Gay Writers Who Changed America*. Grand Central Publishing.
- Bronski, Michael, (2012) *A Queer History of the United States*. Beacon Press.
- Chia, Mantak and Douglas Abrams, (2009) *The Multi Orgasmic Man*. Harper and Collins.
- Deida, David, (2004), *The Way of the Superior Man, A Spiritual Guide to Mastering the Challenges of Women, Work and Sexual Desire*. Sounds True Inc.
- Deida, David, (2005), *Finding God Through Sex*. Sounds Good Inc.
- Eastman, Dossie, and Janet Hardy, *The New Topping Book*. Kindle editions, 2011
- Eastman, Dossie, and Janet Hardy, *The New Bottoming Book*. Kindle editions, 2011
- DeMello, Anthony, (1995), *The Way to Love*. Image Books/Doubleday (This is the most important book)
- Easton, Dossie and Janet W. Hardy, (2009) 2nd ed, *The Ethical Slut: A Practical Guide to Polyamory, Open Relationships, and Other Adventures*. Celestial Arts.
- Eisler, Riane, (1989), *The Chalice and the Blade: Our History, Our Future*. Harper & Row.
- Eisler, Riane, (1996), *Sacred Pleasure: Sex, Myth, and the Politics of the Body*. Harper San Francisco.
- Garrison, Omar, (1964), *Tantra: The Yoga of Sex*. The Julian Press, Inc.
- Harrington, Lee and Molina Williams, (2012) *Playing Well with Others: Your Field Guide to Discovering, Exploring and Navigating the Kink, Leather and BDSM Communities*
- Joannides, Paul, (2005), *Guide to Getting It On*. Goofy Foot Press.
- Kent, Tami Lynn, (2011), *Wild Feminine: Finding Power, Spirit & Joy in the Female Body*. Atria Books.
- Kingma, Daphne Rose, (1998), *The Future of Love*. Broadway Books.
- Odier, Daniel, (1997), *Tantric Quest: An Encounter with Absolute Love*. Inner Vision.
- Odier, Daniel, (1999), *Desire: the Tantric Path to Reawakening*. Inner Traditions.
- Osho, (2001), *Love, Freedom and Aloneness: The Koan of Relationships*. St. Martin’s Griffin Publishing.
- Osho, (2005), *Tantra: The Way of Acceptance*. Ixos Press.
- Pearce, Joseph Chilton, (2002), *The Biology of Transcendence: A Blueprint for the Human Spirit*. Park Street Press.
- Perel, Esther, (2007), *Mating in Captivity: Unlocking Erotic Intelligence*. HarperCollins.
- Ramsdale, David and Gentry, Cynthia, (2004), *Red Hot Tantra*. Fair Winds Press.
- Richardson, Diana, (1999), *The Heart of Tantric Sex: A Unique Guide to Love and Sexual Fulfillment*. O Books.
- Ryan, Christopher and Jethá, Cacilda, (2010), *Sex at Dawn: How We Mate, Why We Stray, and What It Means for Modern Relationships*. Harper.
- Saraswati, Swami Satyananda, (1984), *Kundalini Tantra*. Yoga Publications Trust.
- Saraswati, Sunyata and Avinasha, Bodhi, (1995), *Jewel in the Lotus: The Tantric Path to Higher Consciousness*. Ipsalu Publishing.
- Schaeffer, Brenda, (1987), *Is It Love or Is It Addiction? *Hazelden Information and Educational Services.
- Schnarch, David, (2009), *Passionate Marriage: Keeping Love & Intimacy Alive in Committed Relationships*. Norton.
- Siegel, Stanley, (2011), *Your Brain on Sex: How Smarter Sex Can Change Your Life*. Sourcebooks Casablanca.
- Taormino, Tristan, (2008), *Opening Up: A Guide to Creating and Sustaining Open Relationships*. Cleis
- Wolf, Naomi, (2013), *Vagina: Revised and Updated*. Ecco.


## Recommended Sex-Positive Articles

- Ferrer, Jorge N. "[Spirituality and Intimate Relationships](https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=0ahUKEwifop6d9NPbAhVrylQKHYVHDeoQFggsMAA&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ciis.edu%2FDocuments%2Fspirituality%2520and%2520intimate%2520relationships.pdf&usg=AOvVaw39UzaieDOBSFYgxzb5L4A1)."
- Isaacs, Nora. "[Tantra Rising](https://www.yogajournal.com/yoga-101/tantra-rising)."


# Sponsor Feedback

[Sponsor Feedback Form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdv3-GlS4lYGjMIy4iGkseP491_BXeNIS1r3aBinWB8TT79-Q/viewform "Sponsor feedback")

This is the form that sponsors use to give feedback on their sponsees.


# Sponsor Form

[Let us know your sponsor!](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1PV5SaBRwOKn5FCVAglPW2FjmB72dpEom5SdGAWAjZ-g/viewform?edit_requested=true#start=invite "Sponsor form")


# Sponsors: Who, What, Why and How

## General Questions

__Quick links:__

[Let us know your sponsor!](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1PV5SaBRwOKn5FCVAglPW2FjmB72dpEom5SdGAWAjZ-g/viewform?edit_requested=true#start=invite "Sponsor form")
(the L2 completes this prior to the event to indicate who will be their sponsor)

[Sponsor Feedback](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdv3-GlS4lYGjMIy4iGkseP491_BXeNIS1r3aBinWB8TT79-Q/viewform "Sponsor feedback")
(the L3 or L4 sponsor completes this after the event to submit information to the Sponsor Lead)

__What’s the point of sponsorship?__

Sponsor relationships help us get to know each other and build community. Leveling up isn’t just about understanding boundaries and consent, it is also about connecting to the SPP community. Sponsorship help connect newer and long-term members and provides an opportunity to build the culture and community of SPP.

__How does the sponsorship process work?__

- Any L2 member wishing to level up to L3 begins by RSVPing to an L2/L3 event and is initially placed on the waitlist.
- The L2 member searches for a sponsor, then fills out the sponsor RSVP form. The event hosts clears the recorded sponsor-sponsee team off the waitlist.
- After the event, the sponsor fills out the Sponsor Feedback form for their L2 sponsee.
- After attending at least two sponsored events, the Membership Team reviews sponsor feedback and evaluates if the L2 member is ready to move to L3.

## Sponsee Questions

__How do I get a sponsor?__

It is your responsibility to find a sponsor for an upcoming L2-L3 event. You can visit the Sponsor RSVP form and look through the list of already approved sponsors. Maybe one of them will be at your event, if so, send them a message and see if they are available to sponsor you.

Also, think about some of the L3 or L4 people you met at L1 and L2 events. See if one of them is going to your event and available to sponsor you. Even if they are not yet on the sponsor list, they can usually get approved as a new sponsor and added to the list prior to the event.

__I found a sponsor, do I need to do anything else?__

Yes. You need to let Sponsor Lead know about your sponsor by out the Sponsor RSVP form at least one day prior to the event. Simply posting on the event page is not enough. If we don’t hear from you, we can’t pass the information on to the host and the host will be un-RSVPed you from the event. Even if the host didn’t RSVP you, bypassing the Sponsor RSVP form you will not get sponsor feedback credit for the event.

__I can’t find a sponsor. Can I go anyway?__

No, not if you are at L2 going to an L3 event. If the event you want to attend is a progressive L2-L3 event, you can attend and stay for the L2 portion. If you have trouble finding a sponsor, feel free to reach out to SPP Sponsor on Meetup and we will try to help.

__My sponsor cancelled. Can you help me find a new one?__

First, visit the Sponsor RSVP form and take a look at the approved sponsors on the dropdown menu. You may be able to find a new sponsor on that list. If that doesn’t work, see if there are any L3 or L4 people you know who could become a new sponsor.
If you’re still without a sponsor, send a message to the event host and/or SPP Sponsor on Meetup. We’ll do our best to help. Keep in mind, though, that we are a volunteer run group and can’t always get to things as quickly as we would like.

__I’ve been sex-positive forever, can I skip the sponsor thing?__

The leveling process is the same for everyone, regardless of their level of experience. Our leveling system also allows newcomers to get to know the community better, whether the newcomer is also new to sex positivity or totally sexperienced. Leveling up isn’t just about understanding boundaries and consent, it is also about connecting to the SPP community. By the time someone is leveling up to L3, they should have met new people at L1 and L2 events who they’ll be happy to see at L3 events and beyond.

If you find yourself at an L1 or L2 event wishing you were already leveled up, take the opportunity to welcome folks new to sex positivity and enjoy the opportunity to be role model for them.

__Why am I still not leveled up yet?__

Attending two L3 events with a sponsor is the minimum requirement for someone to level up, but in general we encourage people to attend more than two sponsored events. Leveling up isn’t just about understanding boundaries and consent, it is also about connecting to the SPP community. Sometimes we want someone to attend more events with a sponsor because they are struggling with expressing and honoring boundaries and consent, but more often we just want folks to get more connected with the wider SPP community before moving to L3.

In addition, you may not have received credit for all of the events you attended with a sponsor. Did you fill out the Sponsor RSVP form before your L3 events? If not, you may have attended the event but didn’t get credit for it. Also, we may not have received feedback from one of more of your sponsors. Feel free to check in with SPP Sponsor on Meetup and we’ll take a look.

## Sponsor Questions

__What is a sponsor and what do they do?__

Sponsors are committee assistants. They attend events representing the Membership Committee to vet members, act as ambassadors, and help promote SPP.

Sponsors communicate with Sponsor Lead about the fit of members wishing to leveling up from L2 to L3. They attend L2/L3 events with an L2 sponsee, are available to offer support and answer their sponsee’s questions. After an event they provide feedback to the Membership Sponsor Lead.

__How do I become a sponsor?__

Any L3/L4 in good standing can become a sponsor once approved by Sponsor Lead. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please communicate with Sponsor Lead (message SPP Sponsor on Meetup).

__Can I sponsor my lover or partner?__

No, you cannot. Sexual involvement between sponsor and "sponsee" is not acceptable.

__But, what if things get juicy...?__

So you’re sponsoring this person at this event and it turns out you’re totally into each other... You know we said “no sexual involvement between sponsor and sponsee” but, well...

We’re all about sex positivity and celebrate new mutual connections! Here’s what you can do: if you and your sponsee suddenly each have the hots for one another, just ask another sponsor at the event to take over your sponsor responsibilities! Then you can end your sponsor-sponsee relationship right there and pursue whatever way of connecting feels right to both of you.

__Can I sponsor two or more people at an event?__

No, each sponsor can only have one sponsee per event.

__I’m hosting an event, can I also sponsor someone?__

No, event hosts cannot be sponsors at their own events.

__Can I sponsor the same L2 person for all of their events?__

We want members to experience a range of connections so we ask sponsors to only be someone’s sponsor for a specific event, then let someone else become their sponsor for the next event. That way we get different perspectives and more people get to know each other.

__If I become a sponsor, how often do I have to sponsor people?__

You can say “no” to any sponsoring request. If you don’t feel comfortable sponsoring someone or just don’t feel up to it, don’t sponsor them. Approval just means that you *can* act as a sponsor, it doesn’t obligate you agree to sponsoring requests.

__I’m a new sponsor, now what do I do?__

Before an event, have your sponsee fill out the Sponsor RSVP form. Your name should be on the sponsor list now, if it isn’t, send us a message at SPP Sponsor on Meetup and we’ll fix it.

Either you or your sponsee also need to let the event host know about the sponsorship.

If possible, make arrangements to meet up and chat with your sponsee during the social time before the event.

During the event, ask yourself the following questions about your sponsee:

- Do they understand the broader context of sex-positivity and are on board with acceptance, non-judgment, care, confidentiality and consent (would they be a good SPP citizen?)
- Are they good with their own boundaries?
- Are they good with other’s boundaries?
- Have they made connections in the group so they’ll have people who are happy to see them at an L3 event?
- Are there people who would want to interact with them at that level? (We want to make sure people don’t come and feel isolated, nor sitting on the sidelines looking lonely, as that makes the rest of us feel we need to take care of them.)
- How do they integrate into the group? Watch how they handle interaction. (If you bring them to an L3 and you see that they are totally dependent on you for their sensual/social interaction, they’re not ready to be moved up.)
- Would you take pride knowing that this person is at an L3 event because of your efforts?

Check in with your sponsee after the event and talk to them about any questions of concerns they have and share feedback you have for them.

Finally, submit your sponsor feedback to Membership Sponsor Lead via the [Sponsor Feedback form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdv3-GlS4lYGjMIy4iGkseP491_BXeNIS1r3aBinWB8TT79-Q/viewform).

__Where do I submit my sponsor feedback?__

You can submit sponsor feedback via the [Sponsor Feedback form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdv3-GlS4lYGjMIy4iGkseP491_BXeNIS1r3aBinWB8TT79-Q/viewform). If you’re having trouble with the form or have any questions for us, you can also message Sponsor Lead at SPP Sponsor on Meetup. 

## Timeline: Events are created in the Calendar 3 months ahead of time

Every month the Calendar Team (CT) meets to work on the events held into drafts. 

The meeting is listed in the Calendar so that you know when to get it into drafts.

1. **3 months ahead** - events left  in drafts will  be reviewed by CT at the monthly meeting.
  1.  If your event is 3 months away, you can expect a response from the Calendar Team within a week of the Calendar Team’s meeting.
2. **2 months ahead**- leave event in drafts and* *
  1. *notify CT through #events-calendar channel if the Calendar Team has already met this month.* Someone will be in contact within 1 week of notification. 
  2. Notify the Volunteer Lead about any Volunteer assistance you need. 
3. **For the upcoming month **- leave in drafts and *notify CT through the Slack channel #events-calendar*. Your event is not guaranteed to be placed. Someone will be in touch with you within 48 hours. 
  1. You  are responsible for obtaining your own volunteers if SUG has already been created.
4. **Less than a month away **- *Notify CT at #events-calendar*. The chances of your event being made live are greatly reduced. 
  1. You  are responsible for obtaining your own volunteers 


# Volunteer Credits

## Earning Credits

Volunteer Credits are earned in two manners:

  1. By signing up for a shift on SignUp Genius
  2. By volunteering as a lead or highly active member of a team.

Volunteer Credits are worth $10

When you use SignUp Genius, then you either:

  1. Get into the event that you volunteered for free (if your volunteering does not get in the way of experiencing the event). OR
  2. Pay for the event and earn a volunteer credit OR
  3. If volunteering means that you did not get to enjoy the event because you were busy helping, you earn a volunteer credit. 

In other words: No double dipping- one cannot attend the event fully AND earn a volunteer credit.

You must complete the entirety of your shift to earn the credit.

## Volunteer Cards

Volunteer cards are  found at the Center in the money box or printed out [here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Gbuqc2LZfwBNtA6To4EMGEgVMuFL8M0wERzic-VA18s/edit).

If you are on a team, then your volunteer card will be mailed or given to you. The amount of credits you earn is determined by your position. Ask your team lead for this information. We ask that you do not accumulate more than 8 credits at any one time. Of course this is on the honor system, and we cannot regulate that.

## Using Credits

On the Volunteer Card, there are boxes containing "V" and boxes containing "EC".
The "V" stands for *Volunteer Credit*. When signed, it represents one earned credit. The event organizer is to initial this area after you complete your shift.  The "EC" stands for *Event Credit*. Once used, this gets marked off.

We want people to use your credits! Or give them away for someone else to use!

Other than SPP Core Classes, Signature Events, and Socials, the event organizer has the right to determine if there is a limit to the volunteer credits accepted. 

Special events, such as Polytopia or a presenter who is brought in, may not accept volunteer credits.


# Volunteering

Volunteering is at the heart of SPP. Helping to make events accessible to as many members as possible is too.

There are two types of volunteer roles:

1. Event volunteer shifts
2. Everything else

If you are interested in volunteering an event shift, please email the Event Volunteer Coordinator at [spvolunteerguru@gmail.com](email:spvolunteerguru@gmail.com).

For interest in any other volunteer opportunities, please see the [Volunteer Needs Bulletin Board](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1RTN6Zrs1GSHdjexs3SZQulpoQ0FxoMvCEcE5o9RV8G0/edit?usp=sharing), then notify SPP leadship of your volunteer interest using the [Volunteer Interest Form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1TYEOTsC1CFJzqqvLzS3IBhhvP1OCHzsSGXvaaEbTfqc/edit)

## Volunteer Credits

Volunteers earn credits that can be used towards event fees. More information can be found in [Volunteer Credits](/resources/volunteering/credits).


# SPP - SexPositive Portland

### *Our mission is to change the world by promoting healthy sexuality through community and education.*

## Come, learn, play, and grow with us!  

We are a member/volunteer organization. Our members plan and host events centered around understanding and exploring all aspects of human sexuality, consent, relationship styles, kink, gender, and orientation. We are a diverse and welcoming community.

## What is Sex Positivity?

Sex positivity is a social movement and philosophy which regards all consensual expressions of sexuality as healthy, encourages sexual pleasure and experimentation, places an emphasis on informed consent and advocates sex education and risk-aware sex. Sex-positivity makes no moral distinctions among types of sexual expression, orientation or identification, regarding these choices as matters of personal preference.

## What Does Our Group Do?

SexPositive Portland is a real community of open-minded, fun, and awake people. We provide a chance to explore, learn, and grow in a safe, welcoming, and consensual environment. 

Our real world events include classes, discussion groups, workshops, socials, parties, festivals, and more. They range from member hosted events (in homes, parks, restaurants, etc.), outings together where we might go watch and signature events (facilitated events like our snuggles, couple/triads massages, and parties), that are created by SexPositive Portland and led by its core volunteers.

Our Mission is to change the world by promoting healthy sexuality through community and education.

We value healthy sexuality that is created through autonomy, boundary setting, enthusiastic consent, and pleasure. We are creating a community based on direct communication, social justice, connection, fun, and support. We value accessible education focused on experiences and growth, and replacing unhelpful patterns of behavior through a diversity of new ideas.

## About Applying
We are a secret group. That means only members can see your profile.

__PLEASE FILL OUT ALL QUESTIONS FULLY AND COMPLETELY.__ Short answers mean that you have not read this and will be immediately denied.  
The main things we seek in our members are:

- Understanding of sex-positivity. We are not a dating  or sex group. We are a community. 
- Related experience or learning (books, workshops, friendship circles). Total newbies will be considered, but you'll need to bring a lot of the next item.
- Enthusiasm and willingness to be a part of a community by volunteering or coming out to events regularly.
- We are not a hook-up group, a dating site or a place for swingers to play.  
- We look for emotional maturity, social awareness, good communication styles and a willingness to grow. 
- You must live within 60 miles of Portland or visit often.  
- Diversity and equity are very important to our community. Knowing who is in our group gives us a better idea of how we are doing and how we can improve. Please share some of your identities with us (gender, race, sexual orientation, etc) to create a vibrant community. 
- If you have a common name, please add an initial or last name. We prefer real names, not aliases.  
- You must be over 21 
- Couples must apply separately. Please reference each other.
- You must have a recognizable photo of your face without anyone else in it.

When you fill out your profile, know that that is what other members will see and how they'll decide if they want to be friends and/or play with you.

Men, we love you and need you, but please understand, we get a lot more applications from single men than their female counterparts so, please be understanding if we bring an extra level of scrutiny.



## How Do I Participate at Events?

At events you are expected to be respectful of the boundaries of others and of the event, to take care of yourself, and honor your boundaries and agreements. Beyond that, anything else is up to you. You will never be expected to do anything you don't want to, or to interact with anyone you don’t wish to. But we do expect you to contribute as an active participant through positive social interaction. Sex positivity is about authentic, respectful, open communication, and being honest about your desires.

Anyone can attend Level 1 events  so please feel free to bring a friend or loved one. However, if you wish to attend Level 2 or higher events you must attend an Orientation, Awesome Boundaries, a Social and pay your annual dues. 
To keep people where they want to be (not exposed to things they aren't ready for or don't desire) we've developed a level system and you will notice that all of our events will tell you what level that event is, that is, what is the maximum level of contact or sexuality that will be happening.


In a nutshell:

- Level 1 is Social/Educational (workshops, classes, outings, discussion groups) 
- Level 2 is Sensual (snuggle parties, group massage, sensation play: touch that is nurturing and affectionate) 
- Level 3 is Sexy without an agenda. Learning how to integrate and create connection
- Level 4 is Deeper Community

We have an established system for vetting people and helping them work up the level system. But many people are happy staying at Level 1 or 2 or 3.

People tell us our level system is the thing they like the most about our group. 

__For more information:__
Our website: [https://www.sexpositiveportland.org](https://www.sexpositiveportland.org)
Or visit our public Facebook Page: [https://www.facebook.com/sexpositiveportland](https://www.facebook.com/sexpositiveportland/)


[Sounds good to me. How do I become a member?](/join)

SexPositive Portland is a real community of open-minded, fun, and awake people. We provide a chance to explore, learn, and grow in a safe, welcoming, and consensual environment.

We offer sex education for adults, touch positive events, dances and discussion groups. 




We are a private group through Meetup. This means that no one outside of the Sex Positive Portland Meetup member group can see your profile or know that you are a member.

Who We Are

Our mission is to change the world by promoting healthy sexuality through community and education. We value healthy sexuality that is created through autonomy, boundary setting, enthusiastic consent, and pleasure. We are creating a community based on direct communication, social justice, connection, fun, and support. We value accessible education focused on experiences and growth, and replacing unhelpful patterns of behavior through a diversity of new ideas.

We are a member/volunteer organization. Our members plan and host events centered around understanding and exploring all aspects of human sexuality, consent, relationship styles, kink, gender, and orientation. We are a diverse and welcoming community

Our Mission and Values

Our real world events include classes, discussion groups, workshops, socials, parties, festivals, and more. They range from member hosted events (in homes, parks, restaurants, etc.), outings together where we might go watch and signature events (facilitated events like our snuggles, couple/triads massages, and parties), that are created by SexPositive Portland and led by its core volunteers.



If you are not yet a member of SPP, you can still come to some of our events to meet us, check us out, and learn a few things. Head over to our <a href="/events"> public events</a> page!

Events

Sex positivity is a social movement and philosophy which regards all consensual expressions of sexuality as healthy, encourages sexual pleasure and experimentation, places an emphasis on informed consent and advocates sex education and risk-aware sex. Sex-positivity makes no moral distinctions among types of sexual expression, orientation or identification, regarding these choices as matters of personal preference.

What is Sex Positivity?

Membership tools

- <a href="https://www.meetup.com/sexpositivepdx/profile">Edit your profile</a>
- <a href="https://www.sexpositiveportland.org/dues">Pay your dues</a>

Information
- <a href="/resources/volunteering">Volunteering</a>
- <a href="/resources/concerns-and-complaints">Member Concerns and Complaints</a>
- <a href="/stars">STARS Info and Resources</a>
- <a href="/resources/agreements">Agreements</a>
- <a href="/resources/leveling">Leveling information</a>
- <a href="/resources/sponsors">Leveling Sponsor Resources</a>

Select a section:

Member Best Practices