MUFON, or the Mutual UFO Network, was founded on May 31, 1969, shortly after the publication of the University of Colorado "Condon Report", as a vehicle to promote the investigation of UFO phenomena. A grass roots organization, it operates as a loose federation of individuals, avoiding strict centralized control in order to encourage initiative and leadership at the local and regional level. State section directors assist field investigators, radio operators, and amateur astronomy groups. In addition, dozens of U.S. scientists and technicians act as consultants on a wide range of specialty subjects, and it is this expertise and experience, at the grass roots level, that sets MUFON apart from other amateur clubs or UFO hobby groups. Every year since 1970, MUFON has held an annual symposium, open to the public, as a means of sharing information.