HOW TO CREATE A NEW CLUB
Starting a new club with the Pacific Northwest Four Wheel Drive Association (PNW4WDA) marks the beginning of an exciting adventure among new friends while participating in our mission to keep our public lands available for off-road recreation. As part of the PNW4WDA, you're joining a community that values camaraderie, environmental respect, and the thrill of exploring the great outdoors. This step not only opens up new trails for adventure but also integrates you into a tradition of responsible off-roading in the Pacific Northwest. We're thrilled to welcome you and can't wait to see the paths you'll forge and the connections you'll make in our dynamic community. Welcome aboard – your journey with us is just beginning!
1
Club Naming
Ensure your club has a designated name.
2
Legal Incorporation
Register the club's name with the State. This step secures legal ownership and facilitates future legal obligations. Additionally, it opens the possibility of obtaining IRS tax-exempt status, should you choose to pursue it.
3
Bylaws Formation
Draft the club's bylaws. While many opt to adapt the bylaws of an existing club or utilize the Pacific Northwest (PNW) by-laws as a template, it is advisable to customize these to suit your club’s unique needs. The bylaws may vary in length.
4
Membership Roster
Compile a list of club members, which can range from 2 to 100 individuals.
5
Leadership and Representation
Appoint the club's officers, including a President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer, which are crucial roles. Additionally, appoint two delegates. The leadership team may consist of as few as two or as many as six individuals.
6
Submission for Review
Submit your Club’s application for review either at a Region meeting in your area or by mailing it to a Region or PNW4WDA officer.
7
Approval Process
Upon review, if the application meets all requirements (which it typically should), at least two club members must attend a Region meeting (see clubs page to find out which region you are apart of) to be officially voted in as a new club.
8
PNW4WDA Membership
Once approved, contact membership (membership@pnw4wda.org) to register your club and obtain login credentials to create an account in the membership portal. This includes listing family members per your roster, with a membership fee of $50 per family.