Attendees at the Neighborhood Team Convention in Columbia predict a victory for President Obama in 2012

They came from both sides of Missouri early last Saturday morning, driving east and west down the I-70 corridor to meet in Columbia. Never mind that it was a Mizzou game day with its notorious traffic jams and parking lots overflowing with tailgating Tiger fans. These were not ordinary weekend travelers- they were dedicated OFA-Missouri volunteers heading for Missouri’s first Neighborhood Team Convention of the 2012 campaign.

Seasoned team members and leaders joined with newer volunteers and the OFA-Missouri staff for a full day of learning and sharing critical skills necessary to fine-tune their communication, messaging and organizing skills. After a few friendly team competitions, several group collaborations, and many detailed “how-tos”, team members finished the day energized, empowered and excited about the work ahead.

Clayton team leader, Susie and core team member, Sandy share the ups and downs of team building

The common thread that unites these volunteers is each knows the urgency of re-electing President Obama. They all have a call to action that comes from the heart, a personal story that mirrors that of the Americans who are struggling with the decline in opportunities that has followed the economic crisis. They organize not only for themselves, but also for their families, their friends and their neighbors. They organize for you.

Join the campaign. Volunteer with a team in your community.