This paper aimed to identify how the leaderships of popular organizations in metropolitan region of Vitória value the connection of their militancy and their daily live. Twelve leaders were interviewed - six women and six men - and the data were submitted to content analysis. The data revealed that militancy presents some difficulties, such as little time to themselves and to their family. However, it represents a way for personal realization and growing, when done with pleasure. The data also point to some contradictions between practice and speech. So, the results indicate a challenge for militancy, which comprehends personal changes as much as changes in the objective conditions of the population's life.
popular participation; psycho-social process; social psychology
