Policy: Leaves of Absence
Leaves of Absence
PDG Mike Hayes
One of the many issues clubs face is when and
how to grant a member a leave of absence.
As stated in the model club bylaws, “Upon
written application to the board, setting forth good and sufficient cause,
leave of absence may be granted excusing a member from attending the
meetings of the club for a specified length of time.” It is noted, however,
that while such leave does operate to prevent a forfeiture of membership, it
does not operate to give the club credit for the member’s attendance.
Unless the member makes up elsewhere, he or she must be recorded as absent
It is up to each individual club to set its
own policies as to the circumstances under which leave will be granted, for
what period of time, and what the excused member’s financial obligations
are, if any. Leaves for longer than six months can be a problem and some
clubs ask the member to resign with the provision of rejoining the club
without paying an initiation fee. At a minimum, a member on leave should be
expected to pay RI and district dues, which continue even for the member on
leave, and may be expected to pay for other expenses which the club incurs
other than meals.
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