What is an

APCE Network?

What does an APCE Network look like?

 A Network could look like the picture at the top of the page – those people are part of the current Eastern Region of APCE.

or…

A Network could look like the Retired Educators Connection.

or…

A Network could look like YOU and other people you share an interest, aspect of ministry, denomination, location, or any other affinity with that wish to gather to enrich, connect, empower and sustain one another!

APCE Networks are affinity groups that strengthen your ministry and Christ’s Church!

What kinds of affinity groups can be considered as Networks?
  • Groups organized around ages and stages served
  • Groups of people who serve in similar sized congregations
  • Groups of people who serve in various geographic regions of the country
  • Groups of people who are at significant points in their careers
  • Groups of people who are volunteers in Christian formation ministries
  • Groups who are serving in the same denomination
  • Groups with common roles or passions, e.g., clergy couples; associate pastors whose primary portfolio is faith formation; neurodiverse-serving ministries; crafters; book groups; ???
  • Networks arise organically from within the APCE membership and are not created “top-down” by APCE leadership! People may join as many Networks as their interests and calendars allow.
What is required of a Network?
  • Share APCE’s mission, vision and values
  • Relate to at least one of APCE’s guiding words: Connect, Enrich, Empower, Sustain
  • Submit an application through the Connect Mission Team to become an APCE Network, via the application form available NOW!
  • Designate a liaison to the Connect Mission Team; the liaison must be a current member of APCE (the liaison does not serve on the Connect Mission Team)
  • After the application is reviewed and approved, the Network-designated liaison meets with a Connect Mission Team member twice a year to continue Network status
  • Provide an annual report to the Connect Mission Team detailing activities, membership, officers (if applicable), challenges and joys
  • Particular Networks may emerge and dissolve as needed
How will APCE support Networks, and how will funding work for Networks?
  • Each Network will have an assigned Connect Mission Team member through whom they will be kept current about what is happening with APCE, and opportunities that might benefit their Networks
  • Funding opportunities as noted above
  • Maintenance of Network member lists, which will enable updated email lists via APCE’s master list, and will also allow APCE to reach out to Networks with relevant opportunities
  • APCE will endeavor to provide a space at the APCE Annual Event for Networks to be visible and to give attendees an opportunity to affiliate with a Network if they so choose
  • Sharing of Network-sponsored events and participation opportunities, given that relevant information is shared with APCE (responsibility for sharing with APCE is the Network’s)
  • Grants will be available through the Connect Mission team by application.  Not all Networks will involve activities needing funds.