​3/2026

STWG BYLAWS PROPOSED UPDATES:

Rationale for proposed changes: In order to become an IRS 501(c)3 organization, we need to make some changes to our current bylaws, to conform with language that is IRS approved.

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MISSSION:

CURRENT:

The Guild is an open-membership organization dedicated to:

1. Preserving the tradition, culture and history of woodworking.
2. Sharing and promoting the knowledge and understanding of all aspects of woodworking.
3. Advancing fellowship among persons interested in the art of woodworking.
4. Enjoying and appreciating the woodworking skills, and experiences of other woodworkers.

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PROPOSED:

The organization is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, or corresponding section of any future federal tax code. The Guild is not organized, nor shall it be operated, for pecuniary gain or profit, and it does not contemplate the distribution of gains, profits, or dividends to the members thereof, or to any private shareholder or individual. The property, assets, profits, and net income of the Guild are irrevocably dedicated to charitable purposes, and no part of the property, assets, profits or net income of the Guild shall ever inure to the benefit of any director, officer, or member thereof, or to the benefit of any private shareholder or individual. This organization will work to:

- Preserve the tradition, culture and history of woodworking.
- Advancing fellowship among persons interested in the art of woodworking.
- Enjoying and appreciating the woodworking skills, and experiences, of other woodworkers.
- Promote and educate members, and the public, in woodworking knowledge, skills, and craftsmanship.
- Promote safe operations, use and maintenance, of woodworking equipment and tools.

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AMENDMENTS

CURRENT

Currently, we don’t have a method, (in writing) of dealing with Amendments. This resolves that issue.

PROPOSED

Proposals from members to amend the bylaws shall be submitted to the Executive Board in writing and shall contain the current bylaw language, the proposed language change, and a justification for the change. Amendments proposed by members shall be subject to discussion at a regular meeting within two months of the submission, unless withdrawn by the member who submitted them. Copies of proposed amendments shall be sent to members at least ten (10) days prior to the meeting at which a vote is taken to change the bylaws.

The bylaws are amended by an affirmative vote of a majority of all members present at a regular monthly meeting. Except in emergencies, voting shall take place at a regular monthly Guild meeting. During the meeting at which there is a vote on bylaw changes, there shall be discussion of changes and there may be revision of the proposed amendments resulting from discussion. Voting may proceed on proposals amended at a meeting without additional notice to members. Copies of the revised bylaws shall be available to all members within 31 days after the vote that amends the bylaws.

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DISSOLUTION

CURRENT

Should the members of the Guild decide to dissolve the organization, they may do so by two-thirds vote to dissolve by the members at a regular meeting. The moved and seconded resolution to dissolve must be published in the Guild newsletter, as well as the STWG website. It should be the first item on the front page in the next issue of the newsletter, at least one issue in advance of the vote. The resolution must include provision for payment of all the Guild’s debts to the extent assets permit. The resolution to dissolve must also include provision for transfer of any Guild assets, after payment of debts, to an IRS designated non-profit organization.


PROPOSED

Should the members of the Guild decide to dissolve the organization, they may do so by two-thirds vote to dissolve by the members at a regular meeting. The moved and seconded resolution to dissolve must be published in the Guild newsletter, as well as the STWG website. It should be the first item on the front page in the next issue of the newsletter, at least one issue in advance of the vote.
In the event of an insolvent dissolution of the Guild, the laws of the State of PA shall govern how the assets of the Guild shall be processed to pay all expenses and liabilities. Assets shall be distributed for one or more exempt purposes within the meaning of section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, or corresponding section of any future federal tax code, or shall be distributed to the federal government, or to a state or local government, for a public purpose. The Executive Board members in position at the time of the dissolution will determine the specific organization(s) which will receive these assets in line with the guidelines above.