The first section discusses the importance of national associations, includes links to regional information and resources, and shows examples of existing national associations, their histories and how they are structured today.
The second section outlines the importance of establishing the vision, mission, values and objectives of an association as the first step in its formation. This section includes links to strategic planning resources and gives concrete examples of existing associations' goals and strategic plans.
The third section discusses the steps you need to take when you are ready to start your association. It outlines the basic logistics of setting up an office and the considerations to keep in mind when forming a board for your association.
The fourth section is dedicated to core governance, the system by which the organisation is directed or controlled and the cornerstone of any effective association. Sound governance occurs when an effective organisation is run by a clearly identifiable governing body whose roles are well defined and whose members bring to this body the right balance of skills and experience. Role delineation — reservation and delegation — between board members, committees, advisory groups and managers is essential. The board is responsible for legal, financial and strategic oversight, while managers are responsible for the day-to-day delivery of services and products — ie, getting things done.
These detailed descriptions of core governance structures, roles, responsibilities and processes were gathered with help from Help the Hospices (UK).
Volunteers are vital to the fields of hospice and palliative care and are just as necessary with association formation! This section discusses roles that volunteers play and gives ideas to ways to keep non-paid employees motivated.
