What is OPIRG? The Ontario Public Interest Research Group is a campus- based non-profit, volunteer driven organization working on issues of social justice and the environment.
How do I get involved? There are several ways to get involved, why not start by joining our e-mail EVENTS LIST, check out our VOLUNTEER page, attend our EVENTS; and check out material in our RESOURCE CENTRE in MUSC 229. Students and community members can start up or join an existing WORKING GROUP or serve on our BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
What is a working group? Working groups are semi-autonomous groups of students and community members who organize around specific issues. Working Groups receive funding from the OPIRG office, as well as ongoing support and training. Working Groups use the CONSENSUS DECISION MAKING model to ensure equal access to power within groups, and are expected to take an ANTI-OPPRESSION workshop.
How do I start a working group? OPIRG accepts APPLICATIONS for Working Groups in the fall and again at the start of the winter term. APPLICATIONS are reviewed by our Board of Directors who meet with applicants to ask questions about the proposal before deciding which groups will be accepted.
Can I sign out material from the OPIRG Resource Centre? Yes! Full-time McMaster undergrads and paid OPIRG community members are entitled to sign out books, videos, periodicals and files from our lending library. We try to stock items not found in other campus libraries, with a focus on issues relating to OPIRG’s work. We also welcome resource centre purchase suggestions, so if you know of a resource, let us know – it’s your library!
How do I become a member of OPIRG? Full-time McMaster undergraduates are automatically members since they pay a refundable levy of $7.07 from their student fees. Others can join OPIRG as a “Community Member” for a $10 fee. F/T undergrads who wish not to support OPIRG can receive a full refund by coming to the OPIRG office with your student card within three weeks after the “Drop and Add” period.
Will OPIRG support our event? OPIRG McMaster puts aside funding to support other campus and community initiatives. If you think your event is in line with OPIRG McMaster's principles [visit our support page], and fill out the Request for Support application online. Applications are due by the 15th day of each month.
I hear you have a button-maker: can our group use it? Sure, start by visiting out BUTTON-MAKER page, and make a request.
How can I find out more about OPIRG? Visit the OPIRG office in the Student Centre room 229, or check out our web site and our blog or ask our friendly staff at ext. 27289 or e-mail opirg@mcmaster.ca