CHAPTERS

To start a chapter, you'll need two people committed to serving as leaders or officers — collective action is at the heart of what we do, and it's the most sustainable way to ensure your chapter lasts. Every chapter needs at least one co-lead (co-president, VP, or similar); if you're starting a school chapter, your co-lead must attend the same school as you.

All chapter leaders must be 25 or younger. Leaders under 18 are required to have a chapter advisor before registering — a trusted adult in your community such as a teacher, faculty member, or parent/guardian.

Plan for at least 5 hours per month, covering planning, meetings, events, and other activities. This will vary by season; school chapter leaders, for example, may have several weeks off between semesters.

If you're starting a school or campus-based chapter, check your institution's requirements for student organizations — some schools require a minimum number of members, an advisor, a constitution, or additional approval steps. Note that school requirements may differ from PERIOD.'s.

We have three types of chapters:

• School: Leadership is primarily based in an educational institution, such as a middle school, high school, college or university.
• Community: Leadership is based in a specific town or city. Cannot be associated with a state or entire country.
• Organization: Leadership is based in an existing company or organization.

Yes, you can start a chapter outside the U.S.! We have chapters located around the world. Global chapters have full access to the online tools and resources available to all U.S. based chapters.

Please note, however, that we are unable to ship period products or merch internationally.

It's up to you! PERIOD. chapter leaders are experts in their own communities. Some Chapters host period product drives and donate to local shelters or food banks. Some hold intersectional educational events or menstrual health workshops. Some meet with legislators, testify at hearings, or organize petitions for federal period policy. Whatever form it takes, Chapters work to build community partnerships and boldly advance menstrual health and access.

PERIOD. chapter applications open twice a year — in the summer and in the winter. This summer, applications are open July 1 – August 14, 2026.

1. Fill out the application (allow 10–15 minutes)
2. Schedule an informal interview with our national staff
3. Receive official approval and register your chapter in the global network

Only fully registered chapters are considered active PERIOD. chapters.

Advisors play a vital role in supporting student leaders — offering guidance, continuity, and encouragement while empowering youth to lead. Advisors must be located in the same state as their chapter.

Your role as an advisor

• Support and mentor youth leaders
• Provide guidance and institutional knowledge
• Help ensure continuity year to year
• Serve as a point of connection between the chapter and PERIOD.
  

How to support your chapter

• Answer questions and offer advice when needed
• Attend occasional meetings or check-ins as available
• Help students navigate challenges or transitions
• Connect student leaders to PERIOD. staff and resources

Plan for approximately 1–3 hours per month, depending on your chapter's needs and activity level.

Chapter newsletter: Make sure you and the rest of your Chapter leaders are signed up to receive the monthly Chapter newsletter.
PERIOD.'s general newsletter: Sign up to stay informed of PERIOD's monthly newsletter for organization wide updates!
Follow us on Instagram: Stay connected on Instagram for organizational updates and see what fellow Chapters are up to!
Contact us at Chapters@period.org