JETAA USA BYLAWS By Melissa Spooner & Jessyca Wilcox

MISSION STATEMENT A mission statement should define the purpose and boundaries of an organization. Mission statements should be clear, concise, and motivational. Current JETAA USA mission statement: To support the JET Program and support the JETAA USA chapters and membership. Our goal is to promote a broader and deeper understanding between Japan and the United States through our local JETAA US chapter activities, thus playing an important role in the promotion of US-Japan relations. JETAA USA chapters promote Japan and Japanese culture in the form of community, cultural and social events on a grassroots level.

BYLAWS & SOP/PAP Bylaws are rules of procedure meant to provide clarity to an organization’s boundaries (e.g. organizational structure & operational activities). Standard Operating Procedures/Policies & Procedures (SOP/PAP) defines the day-to-day activities of an organization. The two may overlap, but in essence the bylaws are the goals of an organization and the standard operating procedures gives direction on how to accomplish such goals.

BYLAW BASICS Bylaws should first identify the “who” and “what” of an organization. Who – Formal name of organization What – Purpose, goals, membership criteria. Bylaws should follow up by defining the “where”, “why”, “when” and “how” to give the organization structure. Where – Jurisdictional limits and geographical scope. When – Meeting information. Why – Issues, action, and intent of the group. Legal and fiscal restrictions also need to be listed. How – Defines organizational structure, governing group, and operational procedures. Also includes funding.

FUTURE JETAA USA BYLAWS A clearly defined and structured set of bylaws gives outside organizations and entities a basis to trust our group. JETAA USA already has the foundations of a good set of bylaws. A committee is currently in the process of adapting the bylaws to suit our current national goals and purpose. Once updated, the bylaws should be reviewed regularly to ensure that the organization is functioning properly.