Bylaws

BY-LAW NO. 1

Kitchener & Waterloo Cambodian Association

ARTICLE 1 – NAME AND PURPOSE

1.1 Name

The name of the organization shall be the Kitchener & Waterloo Cambodian Association (the “Association”).

1.2 Purpose

The Association is established as a nonprofit community organization dedicated to:

  1. Promoting Cambodian culture, traditions, language, and heritage.
  2. Organizing cultural, educational, social, and recreational events.
  3. Supporting community unity, youth engagement, and senior participation.
  4. Preserving Khmer traditions including Khmer New Year and Pchum Ben.
  5. Encouraging volunteerism and civic participation.
  6. Collaborating with local governments and community partners.
  7. Supporting newcomers and Cambodian families through outreach.

1.3 Nonprofit Status

The Association shall operate without the purpose of financial gain for its members.

ARTICLE 2 – OFFICE

2.1 Principal Office

The principal office of the Association shall be located in the Region of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.

2.2 Mailing Address

The Association may use a residential or commercial mailing address as approved by the Board.

ARTICLE 3 – MEMBERSHIP

3.1 Eligibility

Membership shall be open to individuals who support the mission and objectives of the Association.

3.2 Classes of Membership

General Members, Family Members, Youth Members, and Honorary Members may be recognized.

3.3 Membership Rights

Members may attend meetings, vote, participate in programs, and run for elected positions.

3.4 Membership Fees

Membership fees, if any, shall be determined annually by the Board.

3.5 Termination of Membership

Membership may be terminated for resignation, non-compliance with by-laws, or conduct harmful to the Association.

ARTICLE 4 – BOARD OF DIRECTORS

4.1 Authority

The Board of Directors shall oversee governance, finances, and operations.

4.2 Composition

The Board may include President, Vice President, General Secretary, Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer, and Directors-at-Large.

4.3 Founding Board

Kosal Tep – President

Kann Ros – Vice President

Johnny Touch – General Secretary

Ham Seng – Treasurer

Nao Nal – Assistant Treasurer

4.4 Term of Office

Directors shall serve two-year terms and may be re-elected.

ARTICLE 5 – DUTIES OF OFFICERS

President: Provides leadership and chairs meetings.

Vice President: Assists the President and performs duties in absence.

General Secretary: Maintains records and meeting minutes.

Treasurer: Oversees financial records and reporting.

Assistant Treasurer: Assists with financial administration.

ARTICLE 6 – MEETINGS

The Association shall hold an Annual General Meeting (AGM) each year. Special meetings may be called by the President or Board. A quorum shall consist of a majority of directors present.

ARTICLE 7 – FINANCES

The fiscal year shall be determined by the Board. All funds shall be used solely for the objectives of the Association. Financial records shall be maintained accurately and transparently.

ARTICLE 8 – AMENDMENTS

These by-laws may be amended by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of members present at a duly called meeting.

ARTICLE 9 – DISSOLUTION

Upon dissolution, remaining assets shall be transferred to another nonprofit organization with similar purposes in accordance with Ontario law.

ADOPTION OF BY-LAWS

These by-laws were adopted by the Board of Directors of the Kitchener & Waterloo Cambodian Association on _____May 13th____, 2026

President Signature: ___________________________

Secretary Signature: ___________________________