Life Membership Policy

Introduction

Honorary Life Membership is the highest award available to recognise the distinguished and exceptional contribution over an extended period of time by an individual to the art/craft of Patchwork and Quilting in New Zealand or for diligent service to Aotearoa Quilters.

The constitution allows the Committee to confer Honorary Life Membership on any person whether or not a Member of Aotearoa Quilters.

This document sets out the principles and procedures which will be followed for the consideration of any nomination for Life Membership.

Principles

Any nomination for Life Membership should be submitted on the form provided and endorsed by two current members of Aotearoa Quilters.  Nominations can be submitted at any time of the year.

The nomination will be considered by a meeting of the whole committee.  The committee decision will be final.  Unless exceptional circumstances apply, the Committee will award one Life Membership every 2-3 years provided suitable nominations are received.

The award ceremony will be held at an event that is attended by Members such as the AGM.

Life Membership entitles the individual to full membership for life without fees.

Process to award Life Membership

1. The Life Membership Nomination Form should be completed and signed by two current members of Aotearoa Quilters.
2. Submit the completed form via email to office@aoteroaquilters.co.nz, or contact the Secretary at this email address to obtain an address for submitting the application by post, or to deliver in person.
3. The Committee will consider the nomination at a suitable full committee meeting. The decision of the committee will be final.  Considerations for awarding life membership can include, but are not limited to:
   1. Length of service to Aotearoa Quilters.
   2. Length of involvement in the art/craft of patchwork and quilting.
   3. Use of skills in patchwork and quilting for projects that have contributed to the support and wellbeing of children and communities.
   4. Contributions to the mentoring and tutoring of others in the art/craft of patchwork and quilting.
   5. Expertise in the art/craft of patchwork and quilting.
   6. Contributions to the growth, development and exploration of new techniques and methods in the art/craft of patchwork and quilting.
4. The committee will decide whether to accept or decline the application and feedback will be given to the nominators.
5. If the nomination is accepted, then a date and time to present the Life Membership award will be confirmed with the nominators.
6. The nominee will be notified of the award and the proposed date and time for the award ceremony. Consideration will be given to providing support for the nominee to be present at the award ceremony.  This support will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
7. Following the award ceremony details of the award and supporting information for the award will be placed on the Aotearoa Quilters website.