WMFRA Bylaws

Article I – Name

The name of this organization shall be the West Michigan Fancy Rat Association (WMFRA).

Article II – Purpose

The purpose of WMFRA is to:

  • Promote the responsible care and welfare of fancy rats.

  • Provide educational opportunities for rat owners, breeders, and enthusiasts.

  • Encourage ethical breeding and exhibition practices.

  • Organize shows, exhibitions, meetings, and community events.

  • Foster a welcoming and supportive community for individuals interested in fancy rats.

Article III – Membership

Section 1. Eligibility

Membership shall be open to any individual who supports the mission and objectives of WMFRA and agrees to abide by its rules and policies.

Section 2. Classes of Membership

The Association may establish membership categories, including but not limited to:

  • Individual Membership

  • Family Membership

  • Junior Membership

  • Supporting Membership

Section 3. Good Standing

Members shall remain in good standing by complying with the organization's Code of Conduct and paying any applicable dues.

Section 4. Termination

Membership may be suspended or revoked by a majority vote of the Board of Directors for conduct detrimental to the Association or violations of established policies.

Article IV – Officers

Section 1. Officers

The officers of WMFRA shall consist of:

  • President

  • Vice President

  • Secretary

  • Treasurer

Additional officer positions may be established by the Board as needed.

Section 2. Duties

President

The President shall oversee the affairs of the Association, preside over meetings, and serve as the primary representative of WMFRA.

Vice President

The Vice President shall assist the President and assume the President's duties when necessary.

Secretary

The Secretary shall maintain records, meeting minutes, and official correspondence.

Treasurer

The Treasurer shall oversee financial records, collect dues, and provide financial reports.

Section 3. Terms

Officers shall serve two-year terms and may be reelected.

Article V – Board of Directors

Section 1. Composition

The Board shall consist of the elected officers and any additional directors approved by the membership.

Section 2. Authority

The Board shall manage the affairs of the Association between membership meetings.

Section 3. Vacancies

Board vacancies may be filled by appointment of the remaining Board members until the next election.

Article VI – Elections

Section 1. Voting Rights

Members in good standing shall be entitled to vote in Association elections.

Section 2. Election Schedule

Officer elections shall be held every two years at a meeting designated by the Board.

Section 3. Election Method

Officers shall be elected by a simple majority of votes cast.

Article VII – Meetings

Section 1. Regular Meetings

The Association shall hold regular meetings at times determined by the Board.

Section 2. Annual Meeting

An annual meeting shall be held for elections, reports, and organizational business.

Section 3. Quorum

A quorum shall consist of those members present at a properly announced meeting.

Article VIII – Committees

The Board may establish standing or special committees as needed to carry out the work of the Association.

Article IX – Finances

Section 1. Fiscal Year

The fiscal year shall be determined by the Board.

Section 2. Expenditures

Association funds shall be used solely to support the mission and activities of WMFRA.

Section 3. Financial Records

Financial records shall be maintained and made available for review by the Board.

Article X – Amendments

These bylaws may be amended by a two-thirds vote of members present at a properly announced meeting, provided notice of the proposed amendment is given at least fourteen days in advance.

Article XI – Dissolution

In the event that WMFRA is dissolved, any remaining assets shall be distributed to a nonprofit animal welfare, rescue, educational, or charitable organization selected by the Board.