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BYLAWS

of the MUNGEH ECO TOUR ASSOCIATION

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART 1 – GENERAL PROVISIONS AND OBJECTIVES

Section 1.1 – Definitions

  • "Mungeh" refers to MUNGEH ECO TOUR ASSOCIATION.
  • "Members" include all individuals officially or non-officially registered under these bylaws.
  • "Council" means the Board of Directors responsible for the executive management of the Mungeh.
  • "Program" refers to any field activity, educational workshop, cultural event, nature tour, volunteer or research initiative.
  • "Leader" is the individual in charge of planning and executing a specific program.
  • "Committee" refers to specialized working units under the Council, such as technical, training, or cultural committees.
  • "General Assembly" is the highest decision-making body composed of official members.

Section 1.2 – Vision

  1. To become a leading platform in sustainable tourism, educational and cultural nature exploration, and outdoor wellness in Canada with positive social, cultural, and environmental impact.
  2. To establish a specialized eco-tourism and mountaineering organization in Canada, enabling people from Canada and around the world to discover the natural, historical, and cultural beauty of the country.
  3. To approach tourism with a responsible mindset that fosters sustainable economic, social, and environmental development in communities and regions visited.

Section 1.3 – Objectives of the Society

  1. To promote nature appreciation and environmental protection.
  2. To foster awareness of culture, history, and education for better understanding of peoples, arts, and traditions around the world.
  3. To introduce Canada’s natural beauty through hiking, mountaineering, beach walks, forest trails, and cave exploration.
  4. To expand virtual tourism experiences.
  5. To provide safe and friendly spaces for nature-based recreation and urban exploration.
  6. To create platforms for social exchange and peer learning among nature enthusiasts.
  7. To enhance members’ physical fitness, mental health, and emotional wellbeing.
  8. To support inclusive participation by aligning programs with members’ interests and abilities.
  9. To participate in voluntary emergency and disaster relief efforts when possible.

Section 1.4 – Strategies for Achieving Objectives

  1. Designing seasonal activity plans aligned with the Society’s core objectives.
  2. Creating educational and promotional materials such as websites, publications, and digital tools.
  3. Forming working groups to explore and research natural and historical attractions in lesser-known regions.
  4. Organizing training courses, workshops, and seminars in cooperation with experienced instructors.
  5. Encouraging participation in certified first aid and rescue training; forming a volunteer emergency response team.
  6. Establishing long-term cooperation with governmental bodies, non-profit organizations, and community stakeholders in tourism and environmental protection.

Section 1.5 – Core Values

  • Respect for cultural, ethnic, and gender diversity.
  • Operation as a voluntary, apolitical, non-governmental, non-religious, and non-profit entity.
  • Transparency, integrity, and accountability in decision-making.
  • Commitment to environmental sustainability and protection of natural heritage.
  • Promotion of friendship, joy, teamwork, and shared learning.
  • Inclusivity and access for individuals from all economic backgrounds.
  • A legal yet friendly environment where members can escape routine and embrace experiential growth.
  • Mutual respect for individual beliefs and viewpoints.
  • Harnessing the diverse talents and skills of Mungeh members for collective benefit.

PART 2 – MEMBERSHIP

Section 2-1: Types of Membership

The Society shall recognize two general categories of membership: (1) Official Members, and (2) Non-Official Members.

Section 2-2: Types of Official Members

  1. Active Member: An individual who has read and accepted the Bylaws and Constitution, has been approved by the Board, and actively participates in one of the Society’s committees. Active Members shall have voting rights and eligibility to stand as candidates in the elections.
  2. Ordinary Member: An individual who has read and accepted the Bylaws and Constitution, has been approved by the Board, and has participated in at least three programs per year. Ordinary Members shall have the right to vote but are not required to participate in committees.

Section 2-3: Types of Non-Official Members

  1. Honorary Member: A person who has significantly contributed to the Society’s mission. Honorary Membership may be granted based on a written proposal by at least three official members and approval by the Board. Parents of official members may also be considered honorary members. Honorary Members do not have voting rights or candidacy eligibility, but may participate in activities.
    Note: Individuals under the age of 19 may be considered honorary members with parental consent.
  2. Guest Member: Official members may invite guests to participate in programs. The inviting member shall be responsible for the guest’s conduct, preparedness, and awareness of the Society’s regulations. Guest participation is unlimited; however, eligibility for formal membership requires fulfilling the admission conditions outlined in Section 2-4.

Section 2-4: Conditions for Admission

To be accepted as an Official Member, an applicant must:

  • Agree to the Constitution and Bylaws.
  • Submit a complete membership application.
  • Pay the annual membership fee.
  • Submit required documents (e.g. ID, photo).
  • Have no financial obligations to the Society.
  • Be at least 19 years old.
  • Have participated in at least three programs as a guest.
  • Receive approval from the Board.

Section 2-5: Termination of Membership

Membership may be terminated by the Board under the following circumstances:

  • No participation for one year, following a review.
  • Written resignation submitted by the member.
  • Three instances of temporary suspension without achieving reinstatement.
  • Permanent expulsion by majority Board vote.
  • Death of the member.

Note: Grounds and procedures for disciplinary action are detailed in Part 7.

Section 2-6: Duties and Rights of Members

Duties:

  • Participate in Society activities and General Assemblies.
  • Comply with the Bylaws and decisions of the Board.
  • Contribute toward achieving the Society’s mission.

Rights:

  • Access to Society resources.
  • Reduced participation fees.
  • Right to express opinions.
  • Right to vote in General Assemblies (Official Members only).

Section 2-7: Annual Membership Fee

The annual membership fee for the fiscal year 2025 is xxx CAD, payable in full upon registration. Members joining after July will be eligible for a 50% reduction in the annual fee.

PART 3 – GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE

Section 3-1: Governing Bodies of Mungeh

The governing bodies of the Society shall include:

  • The General Assembly
  • The Council (Board of Directors)
  • The Auditor

Section 3-2: Duties of the General Assembly

The General Assembly is the highest decision-making body of the Society and shall be responsible for the following:

  • Electing the Council members and Auditor (primary and alternate)
  • Reviewing and approving or rejecting financial reports, performance reports, and the annual budget proposal
  • Defining the long-term policies and strategic directions of the Society
  • Approving the annual membership fee amount
  • Approving any amendments to the Bylaws if necessary
  • Dismissing Council members or the Auditor if necessary

Section 3-3: The Council

The Council, also referred to as the Board of Directors, is elected by the General Assembly from among official members and is responsible for the management and supervision of the Society’s activities in accordance with its objectives and Bylaws.

The Council shall include the following positions:

  1. Secretary
  2. Treasurer
  3. Public Relations Officer
  4. Head of Technical and Safety Committee
  5. Head of Cultural Committee
  6. Head of Education Committee
  7. Head of Equipment Committee

Section 3-4: Council Election

  1. The Council shall be elected by official members during the General Assembly for a one-year term.
  2. The number of Council members shall be at least seven (7). This number may be increased based on the recommendation of the Council and approval by the General Assembly.
  3. Elections shall be conducted through direct, secret, and equal voting.
  4. The Auditor shall be elected separately from the Council.

Section 3-5: Members of the Council

During the first meeting held after each election, the Council shall elect one individual from among its members to serve as the Secretary (Executive Director). The remaining functional roles shall also be assigned based on volunteer interest and agreement among members. The scope of responsibilities for each role is outlined in Section 3-6.

Note 1: Within one week of assigning roles, the Council shall publish the list of officers on the Mungeh website.

Note 2: The first meeting of the newly elected Council shall be convened by the outgoing Secretary. For the very first Council in Mungeh’s history, this meeting shall be organized by a person appointed by the Founding Committee.

Section 3-6: Responsibilities of Council Members

Secretary

  1. Overall coordination of executive matters and official representation of the Society.
  2. Signing of certificates, membership cards, official correspondence, and legal documents.
  3. Ensuring internal coordination and supervising the performance of all Council members.
  4. Managing and leading Council meetings, assigning facilitators, and preparing meeting agendas and minutes.
  5. Representing the Society in external relations and signing contracts or MoUs with other associations or institutions, upon Council approval and within the framework of the Society's goals.
  6. Responding to official letters and written requests.
  7. Coordinating with Council members to invite participants to Council meetings.
  8. Organizing and managing the Annual and Extraordinary General Assemblies in collaboration with the Council.
  9. Collecting reports from various committees and preparing an annual performance report for the General Assembly.
  10. Coordinating and supervising the handover of all records, documents, and equipment to the succeeding Council.
  11. Organizing the first meeting of the new Council.
  12. Proposing operational guidelines and internal bylaws during Council meetings for approval.
  13. Safeguarding and managing the official seal of the Society.
  14. Co-signing binding financial and legal documents along with the Treasurer.

Head of Technical and Safety Committee

  1. Planning programs and training calendars with Education and Cultural officers.
  2. Evaluating and selecting program leaders.
  3. Collaborating on safety materials.
  4. Providing technical briefings to leaders.
  5. Assessing participant qualifications.
  6. Recommending equipment purchases.
  7. Acting as Secretary’s substitute when needed.
  8. Proposing safety guidelines and forming a rescue team.

Treasurer

  1. Preparing and presenting annual budgets and financial reports.
  2. Managing all financial transactions and documentation.
  3. Collecting membership fees and managing purchases.
  4. Submitting reports to Council and the CRA.

Public Relations Officer

  1. Publishing programs, newsletters, and promotional content.
  2. Managing the website and social media.
  3. Maintaining member files, issuing cards, and coordinating communication.
  4. Submitting participation reports to the Council.

Head of Education Committee

  1. Creating instructional content and proposing trainers.
  2. Organizing courses and ensuring certification of members.
  3. Submitting education data to PR and Council.
  4. Planning educational activities with Technical and Cultural officers.

Head of Equipment Committee

  1. Maintaining and managing all Mungeh-owned equipment.
  2. Handling inventory, lending procedures, and reporting condition.
  3. Proposing purchases and logistics plans to the Council.

Head of Cultural Committee

  1. Promoting cultural understanding and ecosystem awareness.
  2. Researching underrepresented communities and planning relevant programs.
  3. Managing disciplinary archives and commemorative activities.
  4. Proposing cultural activities and development strategies to the Council.

Section 3-7: Additional Powers of the Council

  • Drafting internal policies and disciplinary rules.
  • Approving new memberships and seasonal plans.
  • Appointing leaders and preparing asset reports.
  • Proposing Bylaw amendments and representing Mungeh externally.
  • Fundraising and creating digital infrastructure.
  • Delegating authority when necessary.

Note: The Council may authorize routine expenditures within a limit set by the General Assembly.

Section 3-8: Council Meetings

  • Meetings held monthly or exceptionally upon Secretary’s request.
  • Quorum: minimum 4 of 7 members.
  • Majority vote required for decisions.
  • 3 consecutive unexcused absences implies resignation.

Section 3-9: Transfer of Council Responsibilities

The outgoing Secretary shall, within two weeks of the election, convene the new Council’s first meeting and formally transfer responsibilities to the new Secretary via a signed handover report.

PART 4 – PLANNING AND NOTIFICATION

Section 4-1: Program Planning at Mungeh

Section 4-2: Cultural Activities

Section 4-3: Notification of Board Decisions to Members

PART 5 – PROGRAM LEADERS AND COORDINATORS

Section 5-1: Leadership Privileges

Section 5-2: Announcement of Activities and Programs

Section 5-3: Responsibilities of the Leader

Section 5-4: Standard Program Announcement Email Template

Section 5-5: Responsibilities of Assigned Program Coordinators

Section 5-6: Report Writing Format

PART 6 – PROGRAMS

Section 6-1: Registration Forms and Risk Acceptance Waiver

The registration form and risk acceptance waiver used for new member sign-ups are included in Appendix A. These forms shall be used in their current format without alteration.

Section 6-2: Participant Cap

The maximum number of participants in any program shall not exceed 35 individuals.

Section 6-4: Participation of Parents

There are no restrictions on parental participation in Mungeh programs. Each season, at least one program shall be designated as more accessible for families and parents, with advance notice and direct invitations extended to encourage their participation.

Section 6-5: Participation of Guests

Only official members of Mungeh may bring guests to programs. The following conditions apply:

  • Priority for participation shall always be given to official members.
  • The inviting member is fully responsible for the guest’s conduct and any financial matters. All responsibilities associated with the guest fall to the inviting member.

Section 6-6: Penalty for Program Cancellations

The following penalties apply to participants who cancel their registration after the deadline:

  1. No cancellation fee if done more than 7 days before the program.
  2. Cancellation 7 to 4 days before the program: 50% of the total program cost shall be charged.
  3. Cancellation less than 4 days before the program: 100% of the total program cost shall be charged.

Note: The program fee includes all associated costs such as transportation, contributions to the Mungeh Fund, and other logistics.

Important: Replacing a withdrawn participant with another person for fee substitution is only permitted with prior coordination and approval from the Tour Leader.

PART 7 – RULES AND DISCIPLINARY BYLAWS

Section 7-1: Group Rules

  • Maintain ethical conduct and show respect for others’ beliefs and traditions at all times and places.
  • The use of alcoholic beverages, psychotropic pills, narcotics, and cigarettes is strictly prohibited during Mungeh programs.
  • Participants must not disobey the Tour Leader's instructions and must actively cooperate with the Tour Leader and assistants during programs.
  • Active participation in hiking and mountaineering programs is required.
  • Respect hygiene, safety, and environmental preservation standards in all visited areas.
  • Attend Mungeh General Assemblies and actively engage in designated committees.
  • Pay annual membership fees on time and regularly.
  • Accept and commit to the decisions and policies made by the Mungeh Council.
  • Failure to comply with these rules may result in verbal or written warnings, temporary suspension, or permanent expulsion from Mungeh, based on the Council’s decision (see Section 7-3).

Section 7-2: Member Appreciation

When the Council decides to recognize and appreciate a member, the following methods may be used:

  • Sending a group-wide email with a message prepared by the Cultural Officer.
  • Preparing and presenting a framed photo (preferably a group photo) as a gift and keepsake from Mungeh.

Section 7-3: Disciplinary Actions

Disregarding the Bylaws, rules, and values of the group (including friendship, mutual respect, discipline, constructive criticism, and the pursuit of scientific, technical, and cultural growth in mountaineering and eco-tourism) will result in disciplinary measures as follows:

  1. Verbal or written warning issued by the Council to the offending member.
  2. Written reprimand issued by the Council and recorded in the member’s file.
  3. Note: Whether a warning or reprimand is made public is subject to the Council’s discretion.
  4. Temporary suspension decided in a Council meeting held with the offending member and the Tour Leader of the related program, after thorough review.
  5. All members must respect social and family norms. Violations of these norms may lead to a written warning, temporary suspension, or permanent expulsion based on the Council’s judgment.
  6. If a member commits any act that directly violates the Bylaws of Mungeh, the Council reserves the right to permanently expel the individual from the organization.

APPENDIX A – MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION FORM