Club Member’s Bill of Rights reflects spirit of clubs
RECREATION RECAP
by Kathy Thayer
Recreation Manager
With over 160 GRF clubs of every interest, there is no reason to sit home. Studies have shown that the socialization offered here in Leisure World has extended residents’ average life span well beyond the national average. If you are looking for something to do any day of the week, check out the “Clubs and Organizations” page under the Community tab on www.lwsb. com. The LW Weekly publishes clubs’ schedules regularly—and is always happy to print out a club list for residents. Recreation Department staff are always ready to provide specific information.
As thriving as the interest in LW clubs continues to be, cultural shifts are threatening the viability of many of them. It seems everyone wants to have fun but the spirit of volunteerism that once was the norm is waning and clubs are struggling to get members to serve as officers or help out at meetings. Several clubs are at risk of having their reservations cancelled if members won’t step up and serve as officers. By policy, a club must have three officers in order to reserve space. Often, their duties are minimal, but exhausted presidents are threatening to resign if members won’t pitch in.
On occasion, Recreation is asked to resolve club disputes. Staff can counsel members and is always willing to listen to both sides but cannot get involved unless a member lodges a formal complaint after attempting to settle the matter with club leadership and failing to come to a resolution. Clubs are also at liberty to remove a member who is disruptive and we recommend a clause asserting this right be included in their bylaws.
Recently, a resident suggested a Club Member’s Bill of Rights. With a little editing, it’s included here as it does reflect the spirit of what helps keep clubs vital, honest and enjoyable for all of their members: 1. Right to Financial Transparency: Every member has the right to know: How much money the club holds, where the money is kept, who has authority over the account(s),whether the club is incorporated, a 501(c)3, or informally structured.
2. Right to Know How Funds Are Spent: Every member has the right to clear, periodic disclosure of: major expenses (events, speakers, food, supplies), administrative costs, reimbursements or stipends, or any payments that benefit officers or individuals. They may not use member funds to promote administrative positions without member approval. Financials are to be made available to any club member upon request.
3. Right to Know Who Sets the Club’s Positions: Members have the right to know whether: A stated position reflects a vote of the membership, reflects a survey or formal consensus, or it is the opinion of the leadership. The club may not present itself as “the voice of residents” unless authorized.
4. Right to Independent Thought: Members have the right: To disagree with leadership without intimidation, to ask questions without being shamed or silenced, to withhold support for candidates, policies or initiatives.
5. Right to Democratic Process: If a club claims to represent members on: HOA policy, board elections, budget issues, governance matters, then members have the right to: advance notice of endorsements or positions, a fair process for discussion, a recorded vote or clear opt-out.
6. Right to Leadership Accountability: Members have the right to know: How leaders are selected or elected, how long terms last, how leaders can be replaced. This information is to be part of the club by-laws which are to be made available upon request to any member. A copy of the by-laws becomes a permanent part of the GRF club file.
Club membership and reservations continue to grow. With a little help from club members, this fulfilling part of LW life can continue to flourish. Recreation hopes readers become part of the solution.
Staff likes to hear from residents and welcomes respectful input and inquiries on all things Recreation. To share feedback, email kathyt@lwsb.com.
