Mission Statement

To empower individuals of all ages by providing accessible, inclusive, and educational hockey programs. We aim to foster a love for the game, promote physical fitness, and build a supportive community where beginners can learn, grow, and thrive through the sport of hockey.

Vision Statement

Our vision is to become the leading community-driven organization dedicated to transforming lives through hockey. We envision a future where everyone, regardless of age or skill level, has the opportunity to discover their potential on and off the ice, contributing to a healthier, more connected, and vibrant community.


Bylaws

Article I: Name and Purpose

  1. The name of the organization shall be the [Group name here].

  2. The purpose of the organization is to provide accessible, inclusive, and educational hockey programs for beginners of all ages in London, Ontario.


Article II: Membership

  1. Membership is open to any individual who supports the mission and purposes of the organization.

  2. The organization shall have one class of membership unless otherwise amended. Membership dues, rights, and responsibilities will be determined by the Board of Directors.


Article III: Board of Directors

  1. The Board of Directors shall have the authority to manage the affairs of the organization and make decisions on its behalf.

  2. The Board shall consist of at least five (5) and no more than eleven (11) members, including positions such as President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Directors at large.

  3. Directors shall serve for a term of two (2) years and may be re-elected.

  4. Meetings of the Board shall be held at least quarterly or as deemed necessary.


Article IV: Officers

  1. The officers of the organization shall include a President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer.

  2. The President shall preside at all meetings and represent the organization in the community.

  3. The Vice-President shall assume the duties of the President in their absence.

  4. The Secretary shall keep accurate records of all meetings.

  5. The Treasurer shall manage the finances of the organization, including budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting.


Article V: Meetings

  1. The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the membership shall be held once each year at a time and place determined by the Board.

  2. Special meetings may be called by the President, a majority of the Board of Directors, or upon written request by 10% of the members.


Article VI: Committees

  1. The Board may establish committees as needed to support the organization’s work.

  2. Each committee shall operate under the terms of reference established by the Board.


Article VII: Financial Policies

  1. The fiscal year of the organization shall be from January 1 to December 31.

  2. An annual budget shall be approved by the Board of Directors.

  3. Financial records shall be audited or reviewed annually by an independent party as determined by the Board.


Article VIII: Amendments

  1. These bylaws may be amended when necessary by a two-thirds majority vote of the Board of Directors.

  2. Proposed amendments must be submitted to the Secretary to be sent out with regular Board announcements.


Article IX: Dissolution

  1. Upon the dissolution of the organization, assets shall be distributed for one or more exempt purposes within the meaning of section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, or the corresponding section of any future federal tax code, or shall be distributed to the federal government, or to a state or local government, for a public purpose.


Policies

Financial Policies for the [Group name here]

1. Budgeting and Planning

  • An annual budget shall be prepared and approved by the Board of Directors before the start of each fiscal year.

  • The budget shall project income and expenses for the upcoming year, based on the organization’s goals and planned activities.

  • Any significant deviations from the approved budget must be reviewed and approved by the Board.


2. Banking, Authority, and Cash Management

  • The organization shall maintain its bank accounts at a reputable financial institution approved by the Board.

  • The Treasurer and President shall have authority to sign checks on behalf of the organization. For checks above a certain amount, as determined by the Board, dual signatures shall be required.

  • Cash reserves should be maintained in a level that covers at least 3-6 months of operating expenses.


3. Revenue Recognition and Fundraising

  • All donations and revenue shall be recorded and recognized in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).

  • Fundraising activities must comply with local, provincial, and federal laws.

  • All grants and restricted funds shall be used for their designated purpose, and any stipulations associated with these funds must be closely followed.


4. Expense and Disbursement Policies

  • Expenses should be in alignment with the approved budget and directly support the mission and activities of the organization.

  • Reimbursements for expenses incurred on behalf of the organization must be submitted with proper documentation and approval in accordance with established procedures.


5. Financial Reporting and Transparency

  • The Treasurer shall prepare and present financial reports to the Board of Directors at regular intervals, at least quarterly, detailing income, expenses, and comparison to the budget.

  • An annual financial statement shall be prepared at the end of each fiscal year, audited or reviewed by an independent certified accountant, and made available to the Board, members, and stakeholders.


6. Investment Policy

  • Surplus funds may be invested in low-risk, conservative investment vehicles such as savings accounts, certificates of deposit, or treasury bonds, as approved by the Board.

  • The investment strategy shall prioritize the preservation of capital and liquidity over high returns.


7. Conflict of Interest

  • Financial transactions between the organization and its Board members, officers, or their family members must be conducted in a manner that ensures fairness and transparency and must be approved by the Board excluding the involved party.

  • All potential conflicts of interest shall be disclosed in accordance with the organization's conflict of interest policy.


8. Record Keeping and Retention

  • Financial records, including receipts, invoices, payroll records, and tax filings, shall be maintained accurately and securely.

  • Records shall be retained for a period as required by law and prudent financial management practices.


9. Internal Controls

  • Internal controls shall be established to prevent and detect errors, fraud, and theft. This includes segregation of duties, regular reconciliations, and periodic internal audits.


10. Compliance

  • The organization shall comply with all applicable laws and regulations related to financial reporting, taxation, employment, and charitable activities.

  • The Treasurer or designated financial officer is responsible for ensuring timely filings of tax returns and other required documents with the appropriate government entities.

Potential Names

  1. PuckStart London

  2. London IceBreakers

  3. London Frost Finders

  4. Stickhandlers Society of London