Purpose Statement: Facilitate networking, education, and local community engagement through a variety of events, activities, and access to resources.
Framework:
- The chapter is an independent body chartered by SFPE to operate in a geographical area. Must meet minimum requirements to maintain charter. These groups will have minimal structure and draw resources and assistance from SFPE.
- Legal & Financial Aspects
- Must have current state incorporation and by-laws within the U.S. or equivalent outside the U.S.
- All Chapters within the U.S. are required to obtain a federal tax-exempt determination letter, either on an individual basis, or on a Society Chapter Group basis. Those having an individual tax-exempt status are required to send to the SFPE Headquarters a copy of the Internal Revenue Service tax-exempt determination letter.
- The relationship between SFPE and chapter will be set forth in the charter.
- Funding is the responsibility of the chapter, which generally collect dues as well as activity fees.
- Minimum Requirements for Charter:
- Maintain – and show proof of: current incorporation and state registration within the U.S. or equivalent outside the U.S.
- Align mission and bylaws with SFPE mission, Constitution and Bylaws
- Have a Leadership Team
- Keep SFPE informed of any officer changes: Officers change report
- Support SFPE Position Statements and other Public Policy positions; adopt no conflicting positions
- Maintain the dual membership requirement as defined by SFPE (either 10% of paid chapter members hold SFPE Professional Member Grade, or higher; OR 20% are SFPE members).
- Share membership list and contact information (to verify above)
- Complete SFPE Chapter annual report
- Earn a 75% satisfaction rating by members (conducted annually by SFPE on behalf of the chapter; this is a target to assure meeting members’ needs)
For questions on how to start an incorporated chapter, please contact Eva Przygodzki, Chapter Engagement Manager.