National Philoptochos Bylaws

Article I: Name and Purpose

1.1 The name of this organization shall be the National Philoptochos Society, herein referred to as "the Society."

1.2 The purpose of the Society is to engage in charitable activities and philanthropic endeavors by the teachings of the Greek Orthodox faith, both domestically and internationally.

1.3 The Society aims to provide assistance to those in need, promote social welfare, and uphold the values of compassion, empathy, and solidarity within the community.

Article II: Governance

2.1 The governance of the Society shall be vested in a Board of Directors, consisting of elected officers and appointed representatives from local chapters.

2.2 The Board of Directors shall have the authority to establish policies, oversee the implementation of programs and initiatives, and ensure compliance with the bylaws and applicable regulations.

2.3 The Board of Directors shall meet at least quarterly to review the progress of the Society, address any issues or concerns, and make strategic decisions for the organization.

Article III: Membership

3.1 Membership in the Society shall be open to individuals who support its mission and goals, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, or socioeconomic status.

3.2 Members shall have the right to participate in the activities and decision-making processes of the Society, including voting in elections and holding office, subject to eligibility criteria outlined in the bylaws.

3.3 Membership dues and obligations shall be determined by the Board of Directors and may vary based on individual circumstances and chapter affiliation.

Article IV: Officers and Duties

4.1 The officers of the Society shall consist of a President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer, who shall be elected by the membership.

4.2 The President shall preside over meetings, represent the Society in external affairs, and provide overall leadership and direction.

4.3 The Vice President shall assist the President and assume their duties in their absence, as well as oversee specific programs or initiatives as assigned by the Board of Directors.

4.4 The Secretary shall maintain accurate records of meetings, correspondence, and membership, and ensure compliance with legal requirements.

4.5 The Treasurer shall manage the financial affairs of the Society, maintain proper accounting records, and prepare financial reports for review by the Board of Directors.

Article V: Meetings and Events

5.1 Regular meetings of the Society shall be held monthly, with additional meetings called as needed by the President or upon request of a majority of the Board of Directors.

5.2 Notice of meetings shall be provided to all members in writing or electronically at least two weeks in advance, specifying the date, time, location, and agenda.

5.3 Special events and fundraisers may be organized by the Society to support its charitable activities, subject to approval by the Board of Directors and compliance with relevant regulations.

Article VI: Financial Management

6.1 The fiscal year of the Society shall begin on January 1st and end on December 31st of each calendar year.

6.2 The Treasurer shall prepare an annual budget for approval by the Board of Directors, outlining anticipated revenues, expenses, and allocations for charitable purposes.

6.3 All funds of the Society shall be deposited in a designated bank account and disbursed only upon authorization by the Board of Directors or as otherwise provided for in the bylaws.

6.4 Financial records shall be subject to periodic review or audit by an independent accountant or audit committee appointed by the Board of Directors.

Article VII: Amendments

7.1 These bylaws may be amended by a two-thirds majority vote of the membership present at a regular or special meeting, provided that written notice of the proposed amendments has been given to all members at least thirty days in advance.

7.2 Proposed amendments shall be submitted in writing to the Secretary, who shall distribute copies to all members and include them on the agenda for the next meeting.

7.3 Amendments shall take effect immediately upon adoption, unless otherwise specified, and shall be incorporated into the official bylaws of the Society.

Article VIII: Dissolution

8.1 In the event of dissolution or liquidation of the Society, any remaining assets shall be distributed to one or more charitable organizations exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, as determined by the Board of Directors.

8.2 No part of the net earnings or assets of the Society shall inure to the benefit of any private individual or member, except as reasonable compensation for services rendered or expenses incurred on behalf of the Society.

Article IX: Adoption

9.1 These bylaws shall be adopted upon approval by a majority vote of the membership present at a meeting duly convened for that purpose.

9.2 Upon adoption, these bylaws shall supersede and replace any previous versions and shall serve as the governing document of the Society until amended or repealed by the provisions herein.

These bylaws shall take effect immediately upon adaptation and shall govern the affairs of the Society.