Bylaws of Elevate Forward Foundation of Community Support (EFFCS)

Article I – Name and Purpose

Section 1. Name

The name of this organization shall be Elevate Forward Foundation of Community Support (EFFCS), hereinafter referred to as "EFFCS." (Effects)

Section 2. Purpose

EFFCS (Effects) is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes, including but not limited to financial empowerment, workforce development, mental health support, and community reintegration for individuals transitioning out of homelessness.

Article II – Board of Directors

Section 1. General Powers

The Board of Directors (the "Board") shall oversee the affairs of the Foundation, set policy, and ensure that the organization meets its mission.

Section 2. Composition of the Board

The Board shall consist of the following voting members:

1. President / Executive Director – Holds a 50% voting power and, in case of a tie, the President’s vote shall increase to 51% to break the tie.

2. Vice President of Operations / Director of Operations

3. Vice President of Finance / Director of Finance

4. Secretary

5. Director of Fundraising

6. Director of Programming

7. Director of Human Resources

8. 3-6 Community Board Members – Non-director, voting members specializing in specific areas of programming related to the Foundation.

Section 3. Quorum

A quorum for conducting business shall consist of the President, Vice President of Operations, Vice President of Finance, and Secretary (the "Executive Committee"). Additional voting members may be present but are not required for quorum.

Section 4. Duties of Board Members

1. President / Executive Director

   • Provides leadership to the Board.

   • Maintains a 50% vote on the Board; in the event of a tie, the President’s vote increases to 51%.

   • Oversees strategic direction and governance of the Foundation.

   • The President/Executive Director has no term limit.

2. Vice President of Operations / Director of Operations

   • Manages day-to-day operations and programs.

   • Ensures implementation of policies set by the Board.

3. Vice President of Finance / Director of Finance

   • Oversees financial management and reporting.

   • Develops financial policies and ensures compliance with regulatory requirements.

4. Secretary

   • Maintains minutes and records of all Board meetings.

   • Oversees legal documentation and compliance.

5. Director of Fundraising

   • Develops and implements fundraising strategies.

   • Establishes relationships with donors and community partners.

6. Director of Programming

   • Oversees program development and implementation.

   • Ensures alignment of programs with the Foundation’s mission.

7. Director of Human Resources
   
   

   • Manages recruitment, training, and HR policies.

   • Ensures compliance with labor laws and ethical standards.

8. Community Board Members (3-6 Members)

   • Provide expertise in specific program areas.

   • Support decision-making and policy development.

Article III – Meetings

Section 1. Regular Meetings

The Board shall hold at least four (4) regular meetings annually.

Section 2. Special Meetings

Special meetings may be called by the President or by a majority of the Board members with at least seven (7) days’ notice.

Section 3. Voting

• Each Board member shall have one (1) vote, except the President who holds a 50% vote.

• In the event of a tie, the President’s vote increases to 51% to break the tie.

• Votes may be conducted in person, virtually, or by electronic ballot as determined by the Board.

Article IV – Committees

Section 1. Executive Committee

Composed of the President, VP of Operations, VP of Finance, and Secretary. This committee has the authority to act on behalf of the Board in urgent matters between meetings.

Section 2. Standing Committees

The Board may establish standing committees to oversee specific areas, including but not limited to:

1. Finance Committee

2. Fundraising & Development Committee

3. Program Evaluation Committee

4. Community Engagement Committee

Article V – Terms and Elections

Section 1. Term Limits

• The Executive Committee and Board members have no term limits but must commit to no less than two (2) years of service.

• The President/Executive Director has no term limit.

Section 2. Elections

• Elections for Board positions shall be held annually at the last regular meeting of the fiscal year.

• A Nominating Committee shall present a slate of candidates for Board approval.

Article VI – Conflict of Interest Policy

All Board members must disclose any conflicts of interest and recuse themselves from voting on matters in which they have a personal or financial interest.

Article VII – Amendments

These bylaws may be amended by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the Board at any regular or special meeting, provided that proposed changes are circulated to the Board at least fourteen (14) days in advance.

Article VIII – Dissolution

Upon dissolution, the assets of the Foundation shall be distributed to a nonprofit organization with a similar mission, as determined by the Board.

Adopted on: [Date]
Signed by: [President Name], President
Attested by: [Secretary Name], Secretary