Many organizations are not charities at all. They exist to serve their own members: a hometown association, a university alumni club, a sports or hobby club, a chamber of commerce or a professional association. These groups often start informally, but as they collect dues, hold events, sign venue contracts and open bank accounts, they need a proper legal structure to protect their members and leaders.
Organizations we help
- Hometown, family-name and regional associations
- Alumni associations and student groups
- Social, cultural, sports and hobby clubs
- Chambers of commerce, business and trade associations
- Professional associations
- Civic and community organizations
What we do
- Choosing the right form. Incorporating as a New York not-for-profit corporation, and identifying the right federal tax status. Social clubs, business leagues and civic organizations each fall under different sections of the tax code, with different rules on dues, donations and activities.
- Bylaws. Membership eligibility, dues, officer elections, terms of office, meetings, discipline and removal. Clear rules are the best protection against leadership disputes.
- Protecting volunteers. Incorporation and good governance help shield officers and members from personal liability for the organization’s obligations.
- Events and operations. Venue and vendor contracts, insurance, sponsorships and banking resolutions.
- Converting an existing group. Formalizing an organization that has operated informally for years, including transferring its funds and property to the new corporation.
- Disputes. Advising on contested elections, control of funds and bank accounts, and conflicts between factions.
Our approach
We understand the role these organizations play in our communities, and we know that most are run by volunteers. We keep documents clear and practical, explain obligations in English or Chinese, and help leaders focus on their members instead of paperwork.