Open Ground is a membership organization open to all who support what we trust are fundamental principles, reflecting common sense as well as common values:

• Life is good, and made more enjoyable through proactive involvement in community ("And it was good" (Biblical Genesis); "We are the ones we've been waiting for." (Unknown); and "Be the change you want to see." (Ghandi)
• Diversity is essential for health or happiness - oppression of others is self-limiting. We "Listen others into being" (Nell Morton), and recognize our interdependence, "All my relations" (Lakota).
• Creative processes are essential in science, government, self-awareness, community building, spirituality, and problem solving; and are born of reflection on who we best are. "Art is not about thinking something up… it's getting something down." (Julia Cameron)
• • We take life personally. "Never doubt that a small group of dedicated citizens can change the world - indeed, it's the only thing that ever has" (Margaret Mead). "When there's no mensch, be a mensch" (Yiddish proverb).

Our purpose is to address these principles in educational, community-building, and humanitarian activities and services through the provision of a wide range of workshops, seminars, and expositions in cultural, expressive, occupational, and environmental arts. Programs are designed to address social concerns through interaction of participants, organizations with common goals, and the wider community. We have a special interest in serving those who are often not heard.

We are consciously inclusive. As stated in our By-Laws, the officers, directors, committee members, employees, and persons and communities served by Open Ground are selected with preference for diversity in matters of ability/disability, age, ancestry, ethnicity, familial status, gender, gender identity, language, national origin, philosophy or creed, political affiliation, sexual orientation, and all other descriptive categories provided non-discriminatory treatment by law, statute, or ordinance.

Those who come to an event, contribute money or time in support of programs, or pay annual dues, are considered 'members'.  Membership has these benefits:

• Companionship and support in efforts to live consciously
• A forum in which to listen and speak with support from all
• Personal growth, fun, invitation, and opportunity
• An annual membership meeting featuring happy campers, open studios, and good food.
• The right (with other members) to elect a new board member each year, to serve the usual 3-year term
• A periodic newsletter of service updates