What is a Society – roles and responsibilities:
- kconsultkimthronds
- Jul 28
- 2 min read
by Kim Throndson
July 28, 2025
Many non profits are created as a Society. What does that mean? As a Controller I experienced some boards and managers that did not understand they operated within a regulatory environment. A Society is an organization of members together for a purpose. The Society is created under provincial laws.
The board is responsible for ensuring the society:
- Serves its members
- Fulfills its purpose
- Meets legal and regulatory requirements
1. Membership
Sometimes the membership list gets lost in the shuffle of achieving the mission and operating the enterprise. However, as a Society of members, it is important and a legal requirement to engage and report annually to the membership. Some things to consider:
- Is there a membership list?
- Does the society charge a membership fee, and is it being collected?
- How are new members onboarded?
2. Purpose
The Society was created in its governing documents (see my blog Is my non profit a charity) for a purpose. Some examples are : advocacy, agricultural, artistic, charitable, educational, environmental, support activities.
- Is the society achieving its purpose for its members?
- Is the board measuring future opportunities against is purpose?
- If the organization wants to add or change its purpose, it must file an amendment with the provincial regulatory body.
3. Legal and regulatory requirements
A Society is created and registered under a provincial Society Act.
- Review or ask the Managers for the requirements of the provincial society registration.
- Most provinces require an annual general meeting of its members and filing of annual report to the government department. The annual report includes financial statements. (see my blog on adequate books and records).
- Ensure changes or amendments are updated internally and with the government department.
Some Resources:
www. Alberta.ca
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