AMPC Chapters
Purpose
The purpose of an AMPC Chapter is to provide a local "grass roots"
presence for the association. State chapters support the goals and programs of
the AMPC on a local basis and help individual members identify with the efforts
of the AMPC to unify members. Chapters also allows members to concentrate on
issues that may affect them on a local or regional basis.
Program Description
AMPC Chapters are designed to be effective organizations that focus on real
business issues that will help the MPC store owner prosper. AMPC Chapters
function better as lean organizations with a mission statement that goes beyond
the typical social functions found in many associations. AMPC Chapters benefit
their members by aligning with the mission of the AMPC while operating as
independent organizations that allow for flexibility at the local level.
AMPC Chapter Activities
AMPC Chapters typically develop their own responsibilities and duties which
include, but not limited to, the following:
Membership growth to help each other be the best we can be. Identify needs for
members to help them establish the highest skill and business standards. Develop action plans to fill
member needs to better serve their customers. Communicate and educate
members about AMPC services and programs. Develop relationships with
local vendors for group buying power. Provide a "work
shop" atmosphere to help members work on local issues. Provide a forum for
membership communication and cooperation, especially between the AMPC and
other AMPC Affiliated Chapters Organizational Structure
Because competitors are together in a forum where the potential exists to
engage in illegal or anti competitive activities, trade associations are
subject to strict scrutiny under federal and state antitrust laws. Therefore,
AMPC Chapters should take appropriate steps to ensure they are carefully
structured, monitored, and guided to avoid falling into the trap of engaging in
improper activity. AMPC Chapters should have their own separate incorporated
organizational structure with bylaws and a governing board, and its own legal
counsel. The AMPC has available an Outline of the Antitrust Laws' Effect on
Trade Associations and Guidelines for Executives and Members to help you
understand and take appropriate action to protect members. AMPC will
facilitate the formation of AMPC
Chapters with guidance and advice using a process to help you hold
effective meetings, manage information, and lend administrative support to help
you get started.
Tips for better meetings
While a formal organizational structure helps protect you and gives
direction to an AMPC Chapter, members should avoid an organizational
environment that is overly political and slow to respond to member needs.
Taking steps to ensure a cohesive, yet informal group that follows an action
plan developed by the group is key to success. Here is what other AMPC Chapters
have done to have an informal atmosphere:
Meetings are usually held at
a family priced restaurant. Choosing a restaurant that has an area that
they can partitioned off creates a better atmosphere, or hold the meeting
in a separate meeting room. Each member usually pays for his or her own
lunch held before or after the meeting. This allows a social time for
everyone and hotels and restaurants usually provide a meeting room free of
charge in consideration of the meals. Invite supplier members to
your meetings. Many times, you will find them keenly aware and interested
in helping you and they appreciate the opportunity to spend time with you.
It gives them a chance to see their customers and we have found that
sometimes they even offer to pay for lunch as a courtesy. Invite members at least one
week, preferably two weeks, before the meeting to give them adequate time
to plan and prepare. Prepare and follow an agenda
to keep things on track and on time. The AMPC's Effective Meeting Agenda
and tools will help you hold effective meetings and develop action plans
to get results. Remind members before the
start of meetings your Purpose, Agenda, Code of conduct (including strict
adherence to antitrust guidelines), meeting Expectations, and Roles and
responsibilities. Keep concise, clear notes and
distribute a summary of minutes for members following the meeting. Ensure that committees and
members know their role and mission, and follow the AMPC's recommended
action plan process to stay on task to produce results. How to form an AMPC Chapter