Local Bylaws template
This is the new template that is a update to the April 2003 local PTA Bylaws. All updates to your local Bylaws must uses this 2007 template.
2007 Local Bylaws template ____DOWNLOAD
SMCCPTA Dues
St. Mary's County Council of PTA Dues $0.50/ per member, are due monthly as you sign up members, starting November 1st CCPTA Dues Reproting Form ____DOWNLOAD
Fundraising for PTAs
Questions and AnswersThe official mission of the PTA contains no mention of fund raising; however, most PTAs do engage in some fund raising to finance projects or programs. PTAs have often become fund raising agents for schools. What role should PTAs play in fundraising? What types of fund raising activities are appropriate? For what should the funds be used? Below are answers to some frequently asked questions about raising funds for PTAs:
How much time and effort should PTAs devote to fund-raising activities?
Can PTAs accept sponsorships?
Yes, PTAs may accept contributions from businesses; however, the PTA must be careful to limit acknowledgement of the sponsorship to an expression of thanks, not an endorsement of the product. For example: it is appropriate to hang a banner saying, “Family Fun Night – Sponsored by ABC Foods.” It is NOT appropriate to hang a banner saying, “ABC Foods – A Great Place to Shop.”
Can PTAs hold raffles, basket bingos or other games of chance?
PTAs (and any other tax-exempt organization) should not use any form of gambling as a fund raising activity. Cash Encounters states that “gambling, raffles, or any form of entertainment that may be detrimental to character
building or that may place the PTA at risk for liability or embarrassment should not be undertaken. In addition, the funds raised from these activities may be subject to taxation and, in extreme circumstances, may cause the PTA involved to lose its tax-exempt status.” Note: It is usually okay to have a bingo or other such game as a social event, if you do not make people pay to play, then it is not defined as gambling.
building or that may place the PTA at risk for liability or embarrassment should not be undertaken. In addition, the funds raised from these activities may be subject to taxation and, in extreme circumstances, may cause the PTA involved to lose its tax-exempt status.” Note: It is usually okay to have a bingo or other such game as a social event, if you do not make people pay to play, then it is not defined as gambling.
What are the rules on door to door sales?
A fundraiser should NEVER exploit children. Children should NOT be used as door-to-door salespersons. Can PTAs accept advertising? A PTA may accept advertising as long as it stays within postal regulations and does not jeopardize the objects and nonprofit status of the PTA.
How much money should a PTA raise?
A PTA should raise only enough money to fund a planned and approved budget. Don’t just raise money for the sake of having “extra” money to give to the school. Identify your needs, plan the budget around those needs, and raise only the funds necessary to finance the budget.
Keep in mind that your PTA should not be funding basics such as textbooks, school office equipment, playground equipment, technology, and capital improvements. These items should be supplied by the Board of Education.
