Starting a student group is no small feat. Getting a group recognized by the ASUO is an even bigger one. The ASUO gives out more than $15 million in funding to different departments and programs every year, but before groups are able to apply for funding they must fill out an extensive application.

The University of Oregon has no shortage of programs, clubs and student organizations. ASUO recognized organizations include groups like the Blood Drive Association and the Association of Fundraising Professionals. Student political groups such as College Republicans and College Democrats are also recognized by the ASUO.

According to the ASUO website, students interested in becoming recognized by the ASUO should:

• Fill out the application.
• Complete and upload the program by-laws template.
• Hold a minimum of two meetings per month over six academic months.
• Upload at least three detailed meeting minutes including the name of the group, name and student ID number of members present, the date and location and a detailed outline of the discussion.

The Programs Review and Recognition Committee, currently headed by Luis Armenta, reads applications and decides which student groups will be recognized. The application asks a series of questions about group meetings, members, services and more.

Once an application has been filed, the PRRC recognition process, as it appears on the PRRC website, is as follows:

• The PRRC will review the application for completeness and accuracy.
• Program representatives will be contacted for a hearing with committee members for PRRC recommendation.
• If approved, the application will then seek recommendation for University President or designee.
• The application will be reviewed and approved by the ASUO President.
• Approved student organizations will need to schedule an orientation with the ASUO Programs Director.

One advantage to being an ASUO recognized group is meeting space. Groups need meeting spaces and that can get expensive, fast. ASUO recognized groups don’t have to pay for classrooms and meeting spaces through Scheduling and Event Services. Groups recognized by the ASUO can also apply for I-fee funding.

For many groups, getting recognized by the ASUO is a long process. Camp Kesem, which provides summer camps to children who have parents with cancer, has tried to get ASUO recognition since it was started on campus in 2011.

Camp Kesem’s current directors, Haley Wilson and Christie Webb, are optimistic that this year, Camp Kesem will be recognized in order to reach its full potential.

“Camp has grown exponentially since its first year both in volunteers as well as the number of community members that we serve,” said Wilson. “Unfortunately the need for our camp is large, so expansion and support from our university would allow Camp Kesem to grow to its full potential.”

If getting your student group recognized would better serve the UO community, then go on and join the club.

Follow Alexandra Wallachy on Twitter @wall2wallachy