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Strong Women In Heels Membership Manual 24-25

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2 Introduction Strong Women in Heels, Inc. (“SWIH”) is a nonprofit 501c3 organization serving Florida’s Big Bend communities. We aim to empower women of all ages, races, ethnicities, and backgrounds through community service, uplifting social events, educational seminars, and empowerment workshops led by industry influencers. Our goal is to inspire women to set and achieve their goals to be the best they can be. As women, we wear all different types of shoes in our walk of life. Whether it’s a heel, wedge, sandal, running shoe, or barefoot, we stand tall. We are strong, no matter what type of shoes we decide to walk in. The power within us surpasses every obstacle because we are Strong Women in Heels. Our fundamental principles encompass sisterhood, scholarship, and service. Sisterhood: Sisterhood embodies the spirit of solidarity, support, and camaraderie among members of the organization. It represents a bond of friendship and mutual respect, where members uplift and empower one another through shared experiences, understanding, and encouragement. Sisterhood fosters a sense of belonging and community, creating a safe and inclusive space where women can connect, collaborate, and celebrate each other's successes. At SWIH, we believe in offering a diverse range of opportunities for our members. We organize a variety of monthly events that cater to different interests and needs, providing you with opportunities to learn, network, and socialize with other members. From guest speakers to workshops, panel discussions, and social events, there's something for everyone. These events not only foster connections and friendships among members but also allow you to share experiences, exchange ideas, and support one another in your personal and professional endeavors. Additionally, we aim to provide women with access to exclusive professional and personal development resources as well as opportunities for mentorship and career advancement. Members have the chance to participate in mentorship programs, networking events, and workshops tailored to their specific needs and goals. Through these initiatives, the organization aims to empower women to thrive in their careers, achieve their full potential, and make meaningful contributions to their professions and communities. Scholarship: Scholarship encompasses the pursuit of knowledge, learning, and intellectual growth within the organization and our community. It reflects a commitment to academic excellence, lifelong learning, and personal development among members. Scholarship may involve educational initiatives, mentorship programs, and opportunities for skill-building and career advancement. The SWIH Women’s Empowerment Scholarship was established to further our commitment to empowering young women and creating a better future for all. This scholarship, awarded annually, is intended to provide financial aid to its recipients and serve as a beacon of hope and encouragement for women to pursue their educational goals and succeed in their chosen careers. Service: Service represents a dedication to giving back to the community and making a positive impact on the world. It embodies the ethos of compassion, altruism, and social responsibility, where members engage in meaningful acts of service and volunteerism to address pressing social issues and support those in need. Service initiatives may include philanthropic projects, community outreach programs, and advocacy efforts to promote social justice and equality. By embracing service, the organization strives to create positive change and inspire others to contribute to the betterment of society. We believe in giving back to our community, and our members have the chance to get involved with a variety of service initiatives throughout the year. From volunteering at local organizations to fundraising

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3 for causes that support women and girls, there are plenty of opportunities to make a positive impact. Through these service initiatives, members can contribute to meaningful causes, build relationships with fellow members, and make a tangible difference in the lives of others. Collectively, sisterhood, scholarship, and service embody the bedrock of the organization's values and principles, guiding members in both their individual and collective paths toward empowerment, development, and societal contribution. Membership Benefits Joining SWIH will connect you with like-minded women, help you grow personally and professionally, and positively impact your community. As a member, you’ll have access to a range of benefits, including the following highlights: Networking & Professional Development: As a member of Strong Women in Heels, you’ll have the chance to connect with other women who share your interests, gain access to exclusive professional and personal development resources, and participate in mentorship and career advancement opportunities. Monthly Events: We organize various monthly events that provide you with opportunities to learn, network, and socialize with other members. There’s something for everyone, from guest speakers to workshops, panel discussions, and social events. Volunteering and Community Service Initiatives: We believe in giving back to our community, and our members have the chance to get involved with a variety of service initiatives throughout the year. From volunteering at local organizations to fundraising for causes that support women and girls, there are plenty of opportunities to make a positive impact. Member Support: We believe in supporting our members with their goals and times of need: • Prayer, Words of Encouragement & Affirmations - SWIH has a weekly prayer call on Sundays at 6PM. Prayer requests can be given during the call or privately submitted online in advance (with access only by the Chaplain). Additionally, members can request words of encouragement or affirmations. • Bereavement - During the loss of immediate family members (spouse, children, parent, grandparent, and sibling), SWIH offers support with a family meal (serves 4 to 6 people) or plant. A resolution can be provided for the loss of any loved one.

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4 Member Expectations With the honor of entering this network, there are certain expectations each member must uphold to ensure the longevity of the sisterhood. Members are encouraged to participate in all activities as fellowship, sisterhood, and service are the organization’s foundation and core strengths. However, with personal and professional responsibilities, the organization understands that attending all activities might be difficult. As such, in order for a member to remain active, she must participate in three (3) social events, three (3) community outreach events, and one (1) fundraiser by June 1 of each year. Fundraising is vital as it provides financial resources to support our programs, further our mission and goals, and enhance our organization and community. Activities may include working football gameday concessions, selling tickets for public events, donor drives, or fundraising product sales. In the event that a member is unable to participate in or fulfill their one (1) fundraiser participation requirement for the 24/25 membership year, they must pay a $300 financial obligation by June 30, 2025 to remain active and renew their membership. Please note: • Working at least one (1) gameday concession fulfills your fundraiser participation requirement. • If you do not work a gameday concession, you will be asked to sell tickets, sponsorships, etc., at an equivalent value determined by the EBoard or pay the $300 financial obligation in full by June 30, 2025. The organization’s Program Coordinator/Committee will record attendance at each event, and the Administrator will maintain an updated Participation Roster tracking membership attendance. This Participation Roster will be shared monthly with the newsletter. Twice a year, the Membership Coordinator will review attendance and provide the Executive Board (“EBoard”) with a report of members who are not in compliance with (or lacking) attendance. After the review, the Membership Coordinator shall initiate wellness checks and reach out to members with low participation (as identified by attendance). General Body Meetings General Body Membership meetings are essential to keep the connection alive between members while also addressing the business of the organization. SWIH will host four (4) general body meetings annually, and members are encouraged to attend virtually or in person. Membership Dues Each member is required to pay annual dues. The EBoard will set the dues amount for active and supportive members each year. Dues for new, incoming members will include an additional materials/supplies fee. Annual dues are due on June 1 of each year. A late fee will be assessed after June 15. Any dues/late fees not received by June 30 will result in the member’s status as inactive. Members wishing to renew their membership once inactive must wait to re-join until the following membership year.

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5 Membership Tiers In program year 2024-2025, we introduced new membership tiers to better serve our members' needs and interests. Our membership tiers include Active Members and Supportive Members, each offering unique benefits and opportunities for engagement within our community. Active Members: Active Members play a vital role in our organization and enjoy full access to all benefits and privileges. All new members are required to join the organization as active members for their first year, and only upon fulfilling this status can they be considered for supportive member status in subsequent years. The dues for all new members are $120 for the first year and $100 for each subsequent year as long as they remain active members. Active Members receive comprehensive benefits, including: • Attendance at public and private events hosted by the organization. Active Member dues cover membership, administrative fees, and workshop/seminar costs. • Subscription to an informative newsletter, keeping members updated on relevant news, events, and initiatives. • Inclusion in the group chat for ongoing communication and engagement with the organization. • Eligibility to serve in leadership positions and run for office within the organization, empowering members to shape the direction and priorities of our community. Supportive Members: Members are offered this tier if they are unable to complete their participation requirement (3 community events, 3 social events, 1 fundraiser) by June 1 of each year OR if they are unable to renew as active members due to other obligations. To be eligible for Supportive Member status, members must first complete one (1) year as an active member within the organization. Supportive Members contribute to our organization's mission and enjoy engagement opportunities at a reduced dues rate of $60. Supportive Members receive the following benefits: • Invitation to Community Service initiatives and events • Attendance at public events hosted by the organization, providing opportunities for networking and community involvement. Supportive member dues include membership and administrative fees. Supportive members will receive a 50% discount on all public workshop/seminar costs. • Subscription to a newsletter, ensuring they stay informed about our activities and initiatives relative to Supportive Members. • While unable to run for office, Supportive Members play a crucial role in supporting our organization's goals and objectives through their membership. Supportive Members may rejoin as Active Members after completing one year under a Supportive Member status. Rejoining as an Active Member is permitted annually on July 1. To initiate the rejoining process, individuals must express their interest by emailing the Membership Coordinator. These new membership tiers will allow us to better cater to our members' diverse needs and interests while fostering a strong and inclusive community. We encourage new and existing members to participate as Active or Supportive members, as both are integral to our organization's continued success and growth.

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6 Membership Intake Process Application Period The membership intake process will formally begin before May 1 of each year with the release of the SWIH membership application. Before the application's release, individuals interested in membership will be invited to participate in an informational meeting. Attendance is not mandatory to apply. The application period will close before May 15 of the same year. All applications must be electronically submitted, along with a copy of the applicant’s resume and personal statement. A $35 application fee must be paid upon submitting the application. All applications and payments must be electronically submitted. Paper copies of the membership application or payments will not be accepted. Once received, applications will be reviewed by a team of community leaders, key stakeholders, and/or the EBoard. All applicants will receive a letter thanking them for applying for membership. Applicants not selected to move on to the next phase of the process are encouraged to reapply in the future. In the first quarter of each year, the EBoard will determine the number of new members the organization will accept before the membership intake process begins. The number of new members accepted will depend on many factors, such as the organization’s capacity, needs, and desired growth. Based on the organization’s priorities, the EBoard will develop a rubric to score all applications submitted during the membership intake process. Interviews The interview process will begin by May 15th of each year. Interviews will take place in an undisclosed location and last no longer than one hour per candidate. Applicants may be asked to bring a hard copy of their resume and personal statement to the interview. After the interview process, interviewers will score each application using a pre-established rubric. All interviewed candidates will receive a written letter within ten (10) days of their interview noting the outcome of their membership application. Candidates invited to join the organization will have five (5) days to acknowledge their acceptance in writing electronically and submit the $120 membership fee. Fees shall also be submitted electronically. New Member Induction All new members are required to attend the first General Body Membership meeting. New members will be formally introduced to the broader membership and welcomed into the organization during this meeting. Membership expectations and key calendar dates will also be addressed.

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7 Code of Conduct Strong Women in Heels is dedicated to cultivating a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment for all members. This Code of Conduct outlines the standards of behavior expected from members to ensure a positive and respectful community experience. By joining our organization, members agree to adhere to the following principles: 1. Respect and Inclusivity: Members shall treat each other with dignity, courtesy, and respect, regardless of differences in race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, ability, or background. Discriminatory or derogatory language and behavior will not be tolerated. 2. Professionalism: Members shall conduct themselves professionally at all times, both within the organization and in external interactions. This includes adhering to ethical standards, maintaining confidentiality when appropriate, and representing the organization positively in all communications and engagements. 3. Collaboration and Cooperation: Members shall actively collaborate and cooperate with fellow members, fostering teamwork, mutual support, and collective growth. This includes sharing knowledge, resources, and opportunities for the betterment of the entire community. 4. Accountability and Integrity: Members shall take responsibility for their actions and decisions, acting with honesty, transparency, and integrity in all interactions. This includes honoring commitments, fulfilling obligations, and addressing conflicts or concerns in a constructive and respectful manner. 5. Safety and Well-being: Members shall prioritize the safety, well-being, and comfort of all individuals within the organization. Any behavior that jeopardizes the physical or emotional safety of others, including harassment, bullying, or intimidation, will not be tolerated. 6. Compliance with Policies: Members shall adhere to all organizational policies, guidelines, and procedures outlined in the organization's governing documents and official communications. Failure to comply with these policies may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of membership. Reporting Violations: Any member who witnesses or experiences a violation of this Code of Conduct is encouraged to report the incident to the organization's leadership team. Reports will be handled promptly, confidentially, and with the utmost seriousness, and appropriate measures will be taken to address and resolve the issue. By upholding the principles outlined in this Code of Conduct, members contribute to creating a supportive, respectful, and inclusive community where all women can thrive and achieve their fullest potential.

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8 Branded Merchandise Members can purchase SWIH branded apparel (shirts, hats, jackets, etc.) and merchandise from SWIH. Members may purchase items on SWIH’s website or in person at select events. The SWIH logo/brand/mark is owned by SWIH and reserved for official SWIH merchandise produced and sold through the organization. Reproduction of the logo or merchandise is not permitted. For inquiries on the use of the SWIH logo and to provide ideas for future merchandise items, Members should contact the Fundraising Coordinator. Grievance Procedures Members with concerns or grievances about organizational policies, decisions, or conduct may submit a formal grievance to the EBoard for review and resolution. Grievances will be handled confidentially and impartially, with a focus on finding mutually satisfactory solutions and addressing underlying issues. Communication Channels Effective communication keeps members informed about the organization's activities and initiatives and fosters engagement. To facilitate communication, the organization utilizes various channels to reach members and the public: Electronic Newsletter: Active members will receive a monthly newsletter via email. The newsletter contains valuable information about upcoming events, member spotlights, community initiatives, and other relevant updates. It serves as a comprehensive resource for staying connected with the organization's activities and news. Supportive Members will receive a separate newsletter with relative activities and initiatives. GroupMe Mobile Messaging: Active members receive timely reminders and updates via the GroupMe mobile app. These messages are a convenient way to stay informed about upcoming events, meetings, and important announcements. There is also a separate chat to highlight birthdays and celebrations. Out of courtesy, posting, commenting, and liking messages should only occur between 9AM and 9PM. Social Media Channels: Members are encouraged to follow the organization on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on upcoming events, engage with the community, and connect with other members. /StrongWomenInHeels @strongwomeninheels