Local AREA Chapters provide a great opportunity to stay connected with fellow Exchange retirees, build friendships, and enjoy social activities. Most gatherings are informal, social events that often include meals and opportunities to share information of interest to retirees. Information regarding establishing and dissolving a chapter provided. For additional information or assistance in starting or dissolving a chapter, contact the National AREA President at president@aafesretired.org.
There are two types of Local Chapters: Informal Chapters and Formal Chapters.
Informal Chapter
An Informal Chapter is a social group of Exchange retirees that operates without a charter, elected officers, or chapter dues.
To establish an Informal Chapter, simply email the National AREA President at president@aafesretired.org with:
- The proposed chapter name
- A primary contact person
Informal Chapters primarily meet for fellowship, networking, and sharing AREA and Exchange-related information.
Chapter Dissolution If an informal chapter decides dissolve, the National AREA President must be notified at president@aafesretired.org. The date of dissolution should be included in the notification
Formal Chapter
A Formal Chapter is a chartered organization with elected leadership and local chapter dues.
Requirements to Establish a Formal Chapter
- A minimum of five individuals eligible for AREA membership must submit a request to the National AREA President.
- At least one applicant must be a current National AREA member.
- The chapter must obtain an approved charter from the National AREA Executive Board.
- Only AREA members or their spouses may serve as Chapter President or Vice President.
- The chapter must maintain copies of its charter and bylaws and provide them to National AREA.
- The chapter must designate a primary contact and notify National AREA of any contact changes within 30 days.
- Bylaws must include provisions for chapter dissolution or conversion to an Informal Chapter.
Chapter Dissolution
If a Formal Chapter chooses to dissolve, the Chapter President must contact the National AREA President before making any public announcement. National AREA will provide guidance.
Any remaining chapter funds must be donated as part of the dissolution process. Chapters are encouraged to consider supporting the National AREA Scholarship Fund.