Anybody Know How to Start Up a MD'ing Club?

[Oakman404]

There is no MD'ing Club around my area. Many people I know that are now into it (Mostly because of me) are asking me to start a club. I don't have a clue as to how. Any input would be appreciated. Thanks so much.

 

[TN Girl]

Why not contact a few existing clubs and ask them for advice? They had to start somewhere, too. Hope it works out for you!

 

[mitto]

Where do you live?

 

[Oakman404]

Where do you live?

In Ithaca NY. It's located in the fingerlakes region in upstate New York.

 

[shawnrmartin]

OK, the basics:
You need a charter. Just a document outlining what the focus of the club is, and what activities will the club engage in.
In this charter work in these items:
How admissions will handled (and dismissals)
Dues amount, and what they can be spent on. (and weather or not a departing member forfeits his dues )
How officers will be elected (and discharged)
How the Charter will be ratified. (what percentage of potential members are needed to ratify the Charter.)
And most importantly; procedures for amending the charter.
You will need to elect a Treasurer at least, the position of Secretary can be filled by a tape recorder.

Then you start wrangling with your buds on what to cut, and what else to include.
When /where to meet
Who else beyond members and prospects can attend meetings.
Who will be in charge of any inventory
Do you need a President? When / How / For how long it he/she elected.
What activities can be utilized for fund raising?
How will the treasury be audited (and how often?)

Remember, you can amend the Charter, and re-ratify it, but it should be kept to a minimum, or soon it will start looking like Washington DC.

 

[Oakman404]

Wow, Shawn, I didn't realize it was so involved! I guess if I'm gonna do this I got my work cut out for me!