Re: Unit Constitutions & bylaws
Amick Robert (amick@SPOT.COLORADO.EDU)
Fri, 10 Jan 1997 20:05:39 -0700
Mark, et al:
We are an almost 50 year troop and 17 year post; actually the troop would
be over 70, but they didn't charter during WWII. A few years ago, it was
decided that a Constitution and Bylaws would be written to provide
continuity and perspective to the organization. Previously, the
traditions and "standing rules" of the organizations were only carried
around in the heads of the folks who had been around a long time, and
fortunately we have a few of them left; So it was decided to codify and
record this information to clarify it and most of all to have it
documented for future folks when some of us more "jurassic era" folks
aren't around. Additionally, it was felt that while much of the
"textbook" structure of the units is available in the standard BSA
publications, it is not always adequately addressed, or difficult to find
and sometimes located in a variety of different or obscure documents.
Being wary of the adage that "those who fail to study history are doomed
to repeat it.." we were motivated to create such a document.
By writing a Constitution and bylaws, which of course parallel the
guidelines provided by BSA, the focus and structure of the organizations
are captured in one "living" document which serves to provide a
continously available reference for now and the future. Additionally, if
we can help folks avoid "reinventing the wheel" when they really don't
need to, so much the better. There is altogether too much "fixing it when
it ain't broke" in the movement and typically, it is found that maybe some
of the "old" ideas and concepts are actually superior to some of the new
ones after all. Conversely, when it is "broke" we don't hesitate to "fix
it."
When changes are desired or needed, the document can be amended easily,
particularly the "standing rules" which address the "day to day"
operations of the unit.
Such a document is of necessity, flexible, rather than being an
impediment; yet it provides significant guidelines through a vision
and mission statement, as to what the organizations are about, how they
work together, how they relate, and what the roles and responsibilities of
the youth and adult members are specifically in this organization.
One major emphasis we are also trying to encourage is strategic planning
which allows "looking down the road" a long way...and saying..."where have
we been?...where are we now? and where do we want to be one, two, five,
or even ten years in the future?" The Vision and Mission statements help
formulate the goals and measurable objectives we set to answer these
questions. Then we can go after the resources we think we need to get
there..And we heavily involve the Scouts and Explorers in these
brainstorming sessions, because they are the "raison d'etre" for our
existence, and certainly should be a part of planning to shape that
future.
Little if any such material is available in standard "textbook"
BSA reference materials, nor should it be, because our document is largely
germane to our needs and style of operation.
>From a legal stance, BSA does not of course require or even strongly
encourage Constitution and Bylaws; however, nearly any successful
organization will document its purpose, vision and mission statements and
then provide operational guidelines. The document has especially been
appreciated by new parents because it provides valuable information as to
what the organizations are about and the relationships and structure as
noted above.
We spent a considerable amount of time and effort writing the document,
reviewing it and amending it before it was finalized. Many folks had
input and suggestions, and therefore it was viewed as being a thoroughly
researched and reviewed work. When there are issues or concerns, it is
always the primary reference to address those items and prevents "best
guess" decisions being made inappropriately by well-meaning but uninformed
individuals.
I too am interested in learning of others who have or have not written
such documents, and their experiences, pro and con/ with or without
such documentation.
Best wishes..
Bob Amick, Explorer Advisor, High Adventure Explorer Post 72, Boulder, CO
Terry Howerton Sakima Group, Inc. SCOUTER Magazine Kansas City |
