Start a New Chapter

Bring NAAMA to your community—follow these steps to launch an official local chapter.

  • NAAMA is an inclusive organization for American health professionals of Arab ancestry. Our mission is to address the professional, educational, philanthropic and service needs of members and the community. Our strength depends on membership growth and active participation.

    Local chapters are the grassroots foundation. They help people within a reasonable distance assemble, organize, and become more active. NAAMA’s policy is to establish chapters within a 100-mile radius—balancing accessibility and avoiding unnecessary splintering.

  • Please read the instructions below and contact the National Office once you are ready to launch your chapter by emailing NAAMA at naama@naama.com.

    To start:

    1. Qualifying members interested in joining the association hold a meeting to elect the governing body according to accepted parliamentary procedures. Minutes of the proceedings should be recorded.

    2. Newly elected leadership presents a petition to NAAMA’s Board of Directors for acceptance and incorporation of the chapter on the state level.

    3. The new chapter may apply to utilize the national association’s 501(c)(3) federal tax exemption by adhering to NAAMA’s guidelines.

  • Executive Committee officers are elected by voting members.

    Roles:

    • President

    • President-Elect

    • Vice President

    • Chief Financial Officer

    • Immediate Past President

    • Secretary

    • Chairperson of the Auxiliary chapter

    Terms: One to two years as set by the chapter’s Board of Directors, or until a successor has been elected and takes office. Offices are assumed on January 1.

    Succession: Officers may succeed themselves for a second term if recommended by the nominating committee, but not for more than two terms in office.

  • The Board of Directors is elected from active chapter members in good standing. Terms are set by the chapter’s Board, staggered when possible, and one to three members are elected each year to fill vacant or expired terms. The Board meets at least twice yearly.

    If re-nominated, a Board member may serve one additional term, after which a one-year leave of absence is required. To be eligible, a member must be in continuous good standing for one year prior to nomination (with all dues paid, if applicable). Board members may be disqualified and replaced for non-attendance (once a year or three consecutive meetings, when applicable).

  • Each chapter must create its own bylaws that align with NAAMA’s National bylaws. Contact the National Office for a sample set of Chapter Bylaws.

    NAAMA’s office and Executive Committee can support you through the launch: model bylaws, guidelines, brochures, and membership applications are available, and nearby established chapters can be a helpful resource.

  • A chapter brings members together and creates impact locally and nationally:

    • A forum for networking and exchanging experiences

    • A platform for family involvement and social activities

    • A way to maintain heritage and strengthen identity for the next generation

    • A positive image through participation in cultural and civic affairs

    • Leadership for philanthropic and humanitarian drives

    • Sponsorship of CME activities (often supported by pharmaceutical companies)

    • Representation at the national level and a pipeline for future national leaders

    • Ability to bid for and host the annual national medical convention