New Chapter Formation

 Click here for the PDF print version of these Ten Steps to Starting a Chapter.

The following are the Ten Steps to Starting a WIFS Chapter.  Please note, where underlined is the link to the supporting document.  Contact the National Office at (866) 264-9437 or email at office@w-wifs.org for more information.

1.   Establish 20 local contacts that will actively participate in a local chapter. 

  • Send initial email to all contacts in your area. (email template is obtained through the National Office)
  • Based upon the results of the interest forms you collect, establish a kick-off event or exploratory event, location, time, and date. Suggestions for Kick-Off Events.

2.   Notify the WIFS National office once you establish this event. The national office will post the announcement on the website, email it to all WIFS Corporate Partners, and send materials and brochures for the event.

3.   Hold the Kick-Off Event. 

  • Ask all attendees to complete the Chapter Member Survey form and collect on site.
  • Provide a Summary Report to the national office with results of the kick-off.  
  • Schedule the Planning/Steering Committee meeting of at least 12 people.

4.   Hold the initial Planning/Steering Committee meeting for those interested in leadership positions.

  • Use the Chapter Leadership Startup Form.
  • Agree on structure of meetings and identify those in the room interested in leadership positions.
  • Set up your first official board meeting and instruct people to arrive with nominations for board posts.
  • Handout the By-laws template to be updated and approved at first board meeting.

5.   Hold first official board meeting and elect board positions with the Executive Committee and other chairs of committees.

  • Finalize by-laws
  • Elect officers
  • Decide on dues structure
  • Create your Budget
  • Develop committees to meet your goals. Committee Enlistment Form
  • Set dates for chapter meeting and board meeting calendar

6.   Request to become an official WIFS chapter by providing national office:

7.   Set up governance once by-laws are approved.

  • Apply for Federal Employer Identification Number (EID) on line using www.IRS.gov
  • Open checking account
  • Review 501(c)6 Overview for an understanding of non profit status
  • National office will add the local chapter to the website
  • Begin using the Chapter Best Practices Checklist

8.   Promote the local chapter.

  • Identify how you will promote the organization locally
  • Ideas for technology.

9.   Refer to ongoing Chapter Best Practices Checklist
10. Have Fun!