Rainbow Amateur Radio Association GLBT Gay Lesbian

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History & Operation

RARA was founded in 1995 by a group of active amateur radio operators from several regions of the United States. Today, the club is international in scope with almost 250 members around the world. RARA is governed by a six-member board of directors who are elected by the membership for one-year terms. The business and administration of the organization are conducted in accordance with established principles of democracy.

Purpose

RARA was founded to meet the needs of the GLBT community. Our purpose, as defined in the RARA Constitution is as follows:

To promote the Amateur Radio Service
To foster friendship and goodwill
To offer benefits, support and a sense of community to all individuals who are supportive of sexual minorities and their lifestyles, and who share a common interest in Amateur Radio.

Members

The membership in RARA is very diverse. We have members who are physicians, artists, pilots, teachers and college professors to name a few. The club has several affiliated chapters:

Sunshine Chapter - Central and South Florida
Finger Lakes Chapter - Rochester and Western New York
Lonestar Chapter - Dallas and surrounding areas
Great Lakes Chapter - Michigan, Ohio and surrounding states

The roster is confidential and distribution outside of the membership is prohibited.

Activities

RARA is definitely a "fun" club. Here are some of our events:

A quarterly newsletter: The Rainbow Net News
Several weekly on-air HF and VOIP nets
An Internet Message Board and an online chat room
Occasional DXpeditions
Operating and achievement awards
Hospitality Suites at major Hamfests
Meetings and banquets several times each year, including the Dayton Hamvention and the Orlando Hamcation

Various members frequently entertain in their homes with dinners, Bar-b-ques, cocktails and other social activities. By joining RARA, you will join a family of good friends who share a common interest in Ham Radio and other technically related hobbies, and who also know how to have a good time.

How To Join

An amateur radio license is not required for membership (however, it IS a prerequisite for Board Members). Our mailing address is:

RARA, P.O. Box 18541, Rochester, NY 14618-0541 (USA)

For more information, you may send your inquiry to the above address.

Or if you're ready to join, complete our online membership application. Membership joining fee for individuals is $20 FOR LIFE. Companion or family memberships joining fees are $25 per household FOR LIFE. Processing of applications may take up to 30 days depending on date of submission. You may also call us at (954) 502-6969 24 hours a day.

RARA does not assess annual dues.
Occasional free-will donations are appreciated.
Thanks!