Cameron Miranda
The American Kennel Club (AKC) has a set of guidelines and policies that govern the operations of its affiliated clubs. These policies outline the requirements that clubs must adhere to in order to maintain their affiliation with the AKC. One important aspect of club management is the ability to adapt and make changes to their bylaws. As of February 23, 2021, with amendments in August 2021, the AKC has provided updated Sample Constitution and Bylaws for Local Clubs and Parent Specialty Clubs, along with a checklist and best practices guide. This indicates that the AKC recognises the need for clubs to have the flexibility to update their bylaws and provides resources to ensure that any changes are made in accordance with AKC standards.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Date of latest Sample Constitution and Bylaws for Local Clubs | February 23, 2021 (amended August 2021) |
| Date of latest Sample Constitution and Bylaws for Parent Specialty Clubs | February 23, 2021 (amended August 2021) |
| Date of latest Sample Constitution and Bylaws Checklist | February 23, 2021 |
| Date of latest Affirmation of Bylaw Review Form | February 23, 2021 |
| Time taken by Club Relations Department to review requests | 4 weeks |
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What You'll Learn
Sample Constitution and Bylaws
This document outlines a sample constitution and bylaws for a club or organization, following the guidelines set by the American Kennel Club (AKC). The AKC grants its member clubs the authority to adopt their own bylaws, which can be amended as needed. It is recommended that clubs review their bylaws periodically to ensure they remain relevant and up-to-date.
Article I: Name and Objectives
Section 1: The name of this club shall be [Club Name].
Section 2: The objectives of this club shall be:
- To encourage and promote the breeding of purebred dogs and to do all possible to bring their natural qualities to perfection.
- To encourage the organization of local clubs in the interest of the breed and to assist members and breeders in every way possible.
- To urge members and breeders to accept the standard of the breed as approved by the American Kennel Club as the only standard of excellence by which the breed shall be judged.
- To do all in its power to protect and advance the interests of the breed and to encourage sportsmanlike competition at dog shows and obedience trials.
Article II: Membership
Section 1: Eligibility. There shall be two types of membership: Regular and Associate. Regular membership shall be open to all persons eighteen years of age and older who are in good standing with the AKC and who subscribe to the purposes of this Club. Associate membership shall be open to spouses of Regular members and to younger members under eighteen years of age.
Section 2: Dues. Membership dues shall be set by the Board of Directors and shall be payable on or before the first day of January of each year.
Section 3: Voting Rights. Each Regular member shall have one vote at any club meeting. Proxies are not allowed.
Article III: Meetings
Section 1: Regular Meetings. Regular club meetings shall be held at times and places designated by the Board of Directors.
Section 2: Special Meetings. Special club meetings may be called by the President or a majority vote of the Board and shall be held at a designated place, date, and time.
Article IV: Board of Directors
Section 1: General Management. The business and affairs of the club shall be managed by its Board.
Section 2: Composition and Terms. The Board shall consist of the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and three other members, all in good standing and elected annually for one-year terms.
Article V: Amendments
These bylaws can be amended at any regular or special club meeting by a two-thirds vote of the members present, provided that the proposed amendments have been sent to members at least two weeks prior.
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Parent Specialty Clubs
The American Kennel Club (AKC) has provided Sample Constitution and Bylaws for Parent Specialty Clubs, which are available online and were last updated in February and August 2021. These documents outline the rules and guidelines that govern the operations of Parent Specialty Clubs affiliated with the AKC.
To become an AKC-accredited Parent Specialty Club, certain requirements must be met. Firstly, the club must identify its primary purpose, which could be related to specific dog breeds, obedience trials, field trials, or agility trials. Additionally, the club must adopt a Constitution and Bylaws document that ensures democratic functioning. This document should meet the standards set by the AKC's Board of Directors and can be reviewed and approved by the AKC upon submission.
To enhance collaboration between Parent Clubs and local Specialty Clubs, the AKC sends a mailing to Parent Clubs when they become the designated representative of a breed. This encourages any clubs recognized by the Parent Club to collaborate and work together. Additionally, the AKC does not recognize regional clubs designated by a Parent Club, instead focusing on local specialty clubs that meet specific requirements outlined in their communications with Parent Club officers and Delegates.
The AKC also reviews and approves club membership changes and event site changes, which may lead to territory expansions for local specialty clubs. These expansions are implemented to meet the minimum household requirements and address issues such as shifting membership locations and event site challenges.
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Checklist and Best Practices
- Before seeking accreditation from the American Kennel Club (AKC), it is important to establish a record of meetings, elections, membership information, and activities. This demonstrates the club's ongoing viability.
- Ensure that the club has a suitable event site in its local area before applying for accreditation.
- If forming a new local specialty club, it is recommended to contact the respective parent club during the early stages of development. Parent clubs can provide valuable assistance and information.
- The club's name should be easily recognizable to fanciers in other parts of the country and should identify a geographic locality based on its membership. Unusual or unfamiliar names should be avoided.
- The club should operate under acceptable Constitution and Bylaws that identify the orderly and democratic conduct of club business.
- The club should have members residing in a local geographic area and be able to hold events in their respective community to promote the sport of purebred dogs.
- It is important to note that the AKC does not encourage the establishment of a new club if there is already an existing club of the same type in the same area. Dissatisfaction with an existing club is not a valid reason to form a similar club.
- For clubs seeking to become accredited, the AKC will review all submitted documentation to determine if the club meets the criteria for accreditation, including notifying the Parent Club and reviewing their commentary.
- The AKC Club Relations Department will review requests for Constitution and Bylaw revisions and provide a response within approximately four weeks.
- To enhance collaboration between Parent Clubs and local Specialty Clubs, the AKC has adopted a policy requiring written notification to Parent Clubs upon receipt of an inquiry from a prospective new local Specialty Club.
- The AKC expands existing club territories upon written request and in-house research, considering factors such as household membership shifts, event site issues, and the proximity of local specialty clubs of the same breed.
- The AKC also reviews and approves format changes in breed standards, as long as no words are added, deleted, or changed, based on a vote of the respective Parent Club's board.
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Bylaw Review Form
The Affirmation of Bylaw Review Form is a crucial document for maintaining compliance and ensuring that club bylaws remain up-to-date and effective. Here is a detailed guide on the key considerations and steps to be undertaken when utilizing this form for a comprehensive bylaw review:
Understanding the Purpose
The Bylaw Review Form is designed to assist clubs in the periodic examination and updating of their bylaws. This process helps identify inconsistencies, outdated provisions, and areas requiring clarification to align with the club's current structure and practices.
Gathering Relevant Documents
Before initiating the review, it is essential to gather all pertinent documents, including the existing bylaws, zoning bylaws, and personnel bylaws. Separating these into distinct categories facilitates a systematic review process and ensures that no aspect is overlooked.
Committee Formation
A dedicated bylaw committee, typically comprising three to five members, is recommended for the review process. This committee should include a mix of club members, residents, and officials to provide diverse perspectives and expertise.
Review and Analysis
The committee's primary objectives are threefold:
- Removing Inconsistencies: Identify and eliminate any contradictions or inconsistencies within the bylaws. Remove references to nonextant committees, boards, or positions, and ensure that all standing committees are appropriately codified, with clear descriptions of their roles and responsibilities.
- Reflecting Current Practices: Modify the bylaws to accurately reflect the club's current framework, procedures, and practices. This includes updating any outdated provisions that may no longer align with the club's operations.
- Proposing New Bylaws: Identify areas where new bylaws can be introduced to provide informative and directive guidance on the club's existing or desired practices, allowances, and prohibitions.
Seeking Approval
Once the committee has completed its review and proposed changes, the next step is to seek approval from the club's governing body. This typically involves presenting the proposed bylaw changes to the board, who will vote on their acceptance. It is important to note that, in some cases, bylaw amendments may require a two-thirds vote of the membership or other super-majority requirements, depending on the club's rules and external regulations.
Submission for Validation
After the club's governing body has approved the changes, the final step is to submit the revised bylaws to the appropriate authority for validation. This authority could be a state attorney general's office or another designated entity, depending on the club's location and legal structure.
It is important to approach the Bylaw Review Form with a meticulous and comprehensive mindset. Regularly reviewing and updating bylaws helps maintain compliance, avoids potential legal issues, and ensures that the club's operations remain aligned with its values and objectives.
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Bylaw Services webpage
The American Kennel Club (AKC) Bylaw Services webpage provides information and resources for clubs seeking to form or amend their bylaws. The webpage offers detailed guidance on the process of establishing a new club, including the requirements for accreditation and the necessary steps for expansion.
For new clubs, the Bylaw Services webpage outlines the importance of demonstrating ongoing viability by maintaining records of meetings, elections, membership information, and activities. It also emphasizes the need for a suitable event site within the local area before applying for accreditation. The webpage provides valuable tips and best practices for effective club bylaws, ensuring that clubs operate under acceptable and democratic principles.
Additionally, the Bylaw Services webpage offers updated sample constitutions and bylaws for both Local Clubs and Parent Specialty Clubs. These samples serve as templates, providing a solid foundation for clubs to build upon. Clubs can refer to the Sample Constitution and Bylaws Checklist, which outlines the required provisions, ensuring that their bylaws align with AKC standards.
The webpage also addresses inquiries and requests for constitution and bylaw revisions. Clubs can send their queries to [email protected], and the Club Relations Department will review and respond within approximately four weeks. This service ensures that clubs receive timely support and guidance throughout the revision process.
The Bylaw Services webpage is a comprehensive resource for clubs seeking to establish themselves within the AKC community. It provides clear instructions, samples, and a dedicated channel for communication, empowering clubs to navigate the process effectively and confidently. With the Bylaw Services webpage as their guide, clubs can focus on fostering a community that promotes the sport of purebred dogs and the well-being of all canines.
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Frequently asked questions
There is no limit to how often a club can change its bylaws, but any changes must be reviewed and approved by the AKC Club Relations Department.
The Club Relations Department will review a request in approximately 4 weeks.
The request should be sent to [email protected].
The AKC provides a Sample Constitution and Bylaws Checklist (with Required Provisions) and Tips and Best Practices for Effective Club Bylaws on its website.
Even minor changes should be submitted to the Club Relations Department for review and approval. The club should provide a brief description of the changes and why they are being made.
