Ask Me Help Desk

Ask Me Help Desk (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/forum.php)
-   Other Law (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/forumdisplay.php?f=190)
-   -   501c3 grounds for denying membership? (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/showthread.php?t=678128)

  • Jul 2, 2012, 06:19 PM
    kjs123
    501c3 grounds for denying membership?
    I am part of a 501c3 organization and have been for a little over a year. We recently had "tryouts" and someone tried out that has threatened me and my family (long story, ill spare the details) in the past and I am not comfortable being a part of an organization with this person. The founders of my organization said that because we are a 501c3 organization, we cannot deny anyone membership who wishes to join. My question is this: is it illegal to deny someone membership when there's circumstances that potentially could turn ugly? Are there any grounds to deny someone membership to a 501c3 organization or is it completely illegal? Thanks!
  • Jul 2, 2012, 07:08 PM
    AK lawyer
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by kjs123 View Post
    ... The founders of my organization said that because we are a 501c3 organization, we cannot deny anyone membership who wishes to join. ...

    I suspect that is incorrect.

    A 501 (c) (3) organization would be a creature of state law; either a non-profit corporation or other charitible organization. In most states such an organization is free to establish rules governing who can be a member. What do the by-laws say regarding membership?

  • All times are GMT -7. The time now is 01:55 PM.