Chapters

A Reading League Chapter is recognized as an entity with a similar mission to The Reading League (TRL) and that aligns with the purposes, activities, policies and procedures established by TRL.

Rationale for Affiliation

Affiliation with a national organization provides many benefits; Chapters gain:

• Expertise through consultation and technical assistance;
• Visibility and clout as part of a larger, more powerful group;
• Exposure and marketing on the TRL website;
• Coordination of its programs and activities with those of TRL;
• Access to information and materials such as presentations, handouts, videos;
• Increased advocacy and traction for its mission.

General Criteria

Chapters will:

• Incorporate as a separate organization
• Become a tax-exempt organization under Section 501 (c) (3) of the IRS code or have a fiscal sponsor that is tax-exempt under Section 501 (c) (3)
• Obtain and maintain appropriate insurance
• Establish bylaws that are consistent with those of TRL
• File an annual report to TRL on July 1 of each year
• Appoint a President and Treasurer
• File audited financial reports with TRL
• File IRS form 990 (or 990-EZ or 990-N) each year
• Secure a membership base of at least 35 members
• Seek funding or sponsorship for local activities and events
• Pay a yearly affiliation fee to TRL (with the exception of Year One)
• Offer events and engage in activities in alignment with the purpose and mission of TRL
• Secure approval in advance from TRL for presentations, materials, sponsors/vendors
• Maintain full transparency of activities and events
• Abide by all the terms of the Affiliation Agreement

Applying for Chapter Status

Before becoming a Chapter, interested parties will submit to TRL:

• Statement of goals and objectives of the group, to demonstrate alignment and consistency
• with those of TRL’s mission “to advance the awareness, understanding and use of evidencealigned reading instruction.”
• List of officers and description of duties
• Interested member list
• Method or plan for funding or revenue-generation
• Initial plan for events and activities in which the Chapter wishes to engage