GUIDELINES FOR STARTING A CHAPTER

We encourage any group of members who may desire to do so to ban together and form their own local DOC chapters.  In order for such chapters to be sanctioned by and affiliated with the National DOC, it's expected they would adhere to the guidelines provided here.  While it's not our intention to impose our rules on such chapters, adherence to certain guiding principles is necessary to ensure the quality, spirit, and ethics of the National DOC is carried over to the local level.

1. If a local chapter wishes to have their own website, it will be a separate, stand-alone site, accessible to all DOC members, and include links to the National DOC and all other local chapter webpages.  The site should be dedicated exclusively to the overall interest of that chapter and not to individual interests, beyond those expressed in reference to things of a Durango nature.  Any advertising carried on a local chapter site is subject to approval by the National Board of Directors (hereafter referred to as the National Board).

2. The site should have an information section dedicated exclusively to the promotion and support of the local chapter and the National DOC.

3. The WebMaster of the site should be clearly identified and have a valid e-mail address posted on the site.

4. All members of a local chapter must either already be members of the National DOC, or join the National DOC by regular membership application to the National Membership Chairperson.

5. The chapter and any information provided by the chapter on its website will conform to the dictates of the National Constitution/Bylaws.

6. The chapter may either adopt/adapt the National Constitution/Bylaws or develop a set of their own, subject to approval by the National Board.  Any changes or amendments to a local chapter's Constitution/Bylaws are also subject to approval by the National Board.

7. Any local chapter dues required will be collected, accounted for, and disbursed by the local chapter, and shall be entirely separated from the National DOC dues which are collected sole through and by the National Membership Chairperson.  Local chapter events and activities will be financed solely by local chapter dues and fund raisers except under special circumstances as determined by the National Board.

8. Every participant in any local chapter sponsored/hosted events will be required to sign a copy of the DOC Waiver.

9. Approval of new chapters by the National Board will be based on the chapter’s planned website, if any, the contents of its Constitution/Bylaws and its adherence to the guidelines established here. The National Board reserves the right to disenfranchise a local chapter should it's actions conflict with the goals of the National DOC.

1. What will be the purpose of the Chapter?  "Meet and Greets", mechanical and accessory advice, road trips, offroad adventures, installation workshops and charity events are only a few possibilities. Be creative.

2. How formal do you want to make the structure of the Chapter?  It can be as formal or informal as you want provided it is in conformance with the National Constitution/Bylaws and the above guidelines.

3. Will there be a dues structure to support the activities of the Chapter?  Please refer to # 7 above.

4. Who will be responsible for creating and maintaining any webpage and who will provide information to be loaded onto such a page?

5. Are you sure the chapter’s geographic area doesn't impinge on another chapter’s?  This will be a major consideration in gaining DOC approval.

The best way to start a local chapter is to check the Member Directory on the National DOC website for those living in your area.  Don’t let yourself be limited by state boundaries.  E-mailing any members in a given area to see if there's sufficent interest in forming a local chapter will give you a quick indication of the fesabliity.  It should be determined right at the onset if your proposed chapter will conflict with one already in existence.

We hope these guidelines will not be considered onerous, but rather viewed in a positive light and that their intention be honored.  If the National DOC can be of assistance in helping you to establishing a local chapter, please feel free to contact us.

Good luck !