OVERVIEW OF NONPF SIG STRUCTURE
1.0 Special Interest Groups
A Special Interest Group (SIG) is a formal group within NONPF formed for the purposes of:
1. Facilitating communication within the organization on topics of interest to members.
2. Encouraging and supporting the needs of special interest within the organization.
3. Establishing a ready list of identified members with an interest and expertise in a particular area.
4. Providing an additional opportunity for participation within the organization.
5. Identifying innovative and creative activities among members with similar interests.
1.1 Organizational Structure
Each SIG will have a Convener who is elected from the membership of the SIG. The Conveners of all SIGs participate in a SIG Steering Committee under the leadership of the Vice-President/President-elect of NONPF.
1.2 Formation of New SIGs
1. Individual, Program, and Student members of the organization may form and join a SIG to address specific topics of interest that are not currently represented through the standing or special committee structure.
2. A minimum of 10 members is needed to establish and maintain a SIG.
3. A group of 10 or more members can petition the Board of Directors for recognition as a Special Interest Group.
4. A petition for approval of a SIG should include the topic, list of NONPF members who wish to be included, and preliminary goals.
1.3 SIG Activities
All SIG activities need to be clarified with the Board to eliminate duplication with task force and committee activities. Any activities undertaken by the SIG that will require staff support or additional budget should be brought to NONPF Board via the Vice-President/President-elect for approval prior to implementation of the planned activity.
1.2.1 Media, Public Relations, and Activities
The NONPF Office and Board of Directors are responsible for any official public communication, endorsement, or interaction with other organizations. Therefore, any SIG wishing to publish a position statement, publicly endorse an activity outside of the organization, or develop a formal relationship with another organization should bring the action before the Board via the Vice-President/President-Elect for approval prior to implementation.
2.0 SIG Steering Committee
The SIG Steering Committee provides the liaison between the SIGs and the NONPF Board of Directors.
2.1 Organization
1. Each SIG shall appoint a chair among its membership to serve on the SIG Steering Committee.
2. The SIG Steering Committee shall report to the Vice-President/ President-Elect.
2.2 Functions
The functions of the SIG Steering Committee shall be:
a. To provide a forum within the organization for addressing issues in the SIG area of interest.
b. To identify issues related to the SIG interest areas.
c. To serve as a source of expertise in the SIG interest areas for the organization.
d. To provide periodic reports on the activities of the SIGs.
2.3 Frequency of Meetings
The SIG Steering Committee will convene by conference call at least twice a year.
Approved by the NONPF Board of Directors on July 28, 2004.