Membership Bylaws

MEMBERSHIP ELIGIBILITY

Membership in the Business Women of Fayette & Coweta is a valued privilege. Candidates for membership shall meet the requirements set forth in the Bylaws.

Membership is eligible to women in business within Fayette and/or Coweta counties, both profit and non-profit, as owners and/or leaders who have demonstrated good character, integrity, and leadership; who have a good reputation in their business, profession, and community; and who are willing to serve in their community. In addition, any woman in business wishing to join the BWFC not meeting any of the requirements set forth above, may be granted special dispensation by the Executive Board.

Residents of Fayette or Coweta counties may also be eligible for membership if the business is not within the boundaries of these counties.

Membership Fees & Dues

All membership fees and dues shall be determined periodically by the Executive Board of Directors based on predicted expenses and pragmatic economic principles. Membership dues are payable April 1st of each calendar year. Invoices will be sent via email to each member in March under the supervision of the Treasurer. Invoices are payable online via debit or credit card.

In the event that a member does not pay their annual dues within the 30-day grace period from the renewal day, the member will no longer be deemed in good standing with the BWFC. Subsequently, the member shall be removed from the membership roster and will lose access to membership benefits and privileges until such time that their membership is reactivated via submission of a new member application.

Only members in good standing shall be eligible to vote and participate in any BWFC related activities (including serving in leadership positions).

Membership Code of Conduct

The Code of Conduct is a means of guiding all members in making ethical decisions. The Code of Conduct statements listed below are general in nature and not expected to cover all situations that may arise:

  • Members will serve as goodwill ambassadors for the Business Women of Fayette & Coweta;
  • Members will be fair and respectful towards each other, visitors, vendors, and cause representatives, demonstrating integrity, responsibility, kindness, and sincerity;
  • Members will strive for excellence in their professions by maintaining and enhancing their business knowledge and skills, and by encouraging the professional development of other members;
  • Members will not allow their personal, or political beliefs and convictions to interfere with the representation of the Business Women of Fayette & Coweta mission;
  • Members will not use their personal or professional power, Executive Board position, or membership standing to advance any personal and/or professional interests that may conflict with the mission of the BWFC; and
  • Members will maintain compliance with Business Women of Fayette & Coweta Bylaws when attending BWFC meetings or events, or when representing the BWFC

Business Meetings

Business meetings, also referred to as BWFC meetings, will occur bi-monthly in February, April, June, August, October, and December.

The December meeting is the designated Annual General Meeting (“AGM”). The AGM agenda will include the induction of the incoming Executive Board, the presentation of the Woman of the Year award, as well as a celebration of year-end. The incoming Executive Board will be given an opportunity to speak at the AGM and may share the annual calendar and goals for the following year with the BWFC members. The first meeting of the calendar year (February) will include a review of the annual calendar and goals with the BWFC members.

Unless otherwise specified, the AGM and the BWFC meetings are held in the evenings on the fourth Tuesday of the designated month.

Membership Quorum

For membership meetings in which a vote is to be taken, including the Annual General Meeting, a quorum is twenty percent (20%) of the members in good standing. Visitors and other meeting attendees are not eligible to cast a vote.

WHO WE ARE

The Business Women of Fayette and Coweta (BWFC) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We provide invaluable support for women in business through our empowerment initiatives. This includes networking and active participation in community outreach programs. Through this work, we help our members achieve their personal and professional goals.

Membership

The BWFC provides women who live or work in Fayette or Coweta counties an opportunity for professional and personal development. Visit the Member Benefits section for a full list of the benefits our members enjoy.