We are a small group of women (30) who have been meeting together for the last seven years. We are currently a chapter of a larger organization. The majority of our members are on fixed incomes and watch there money very closely. They feel that having to pay dues to our group and the parent group also, is beyond there means. The parent group has raised there membership fee twice in the last couple of years, we have not. We want to withdraw from the parent group and form our own guild. Can anybody out there tell us the steps we need to take to get this done. Our only income is the dues that our members pay, so we do not have a lot of money.

Check for your state. Most states have a charter of sorts that you can use to create your by-laws and such. Or just create your own rules as to what you want it to be and give it a name.

What state are you in?

I would first write a letter to the parent group to inform them that the entire membership of your group wishes to discontinue their association with the parent group AND the exact reason why. See what response that you get.

Your group of women have the ability to start a new group of quilters. Come up with the name and continue on.

If you have a group, then you should put together a reason for meeting and a list of by-laws, guidelines or rules etc., that are followed.

Another option is together as a group create a quilt. Then raffle or auction the quilt off in the community. The proceeds could then pay for the additional dues or fees for the entire chapter to be paid. This would allow you to maintain your association with them.

Good luck with your local chapter of quilters. Please keep us updated as to how your group decides to proceed.

Pam M

That's what I would suggest too.

there may be some information at the site for
The National Quilting Association

I do want to thank everybody for your answers. We have tried to get feed back from the parent group and it seams that all they are intested in is the membership fees. Forming a guild is not the main problem, what I am questioning is the legal aspect, such as filing with state and IRS. This is what we are concerened with mostly.