This brief has a twofold motivation. One is to present an organization, Washington Teachers of Teachers of Mathematics (WaToToM) that has become a solid player in the arena of mathematics education in the state of Washington and has aspects that might be of value to people with similar goals in other states. The other is to present a history in grassroots development. WaToToM had its origins 15 years ago as a small gathering whose direction was not clearly defined. From those small roots it has grown not to an enormous organization but to a lively, goal-oriented and highly functional one that has had profound influences on educational policy, curriculum development and teacher preparation.

Introduction.- A brief history of WaToToM.- Excerpts from WaToToM Newsletters with helpful commentaries and illustrative examples.- Lessons learned from 15 years of WaToToM.- Future Directions and guidance for beginning a grassroots organization to develop and nurture mathematics teacher educators, promote progressive educational policies and develop innovative and effective curriculum.