Family & Seniors Ministry

Organization of United Church Homes (OUCH)

Terms of Reference for Organization of United Church Homes

(Adopted November 6, 1987, was reviewed and approved November 2001)

Purpose

This is an organization, the purpose of which is to enhance, promote and facilitate the relationship between The United Church of Canada and the accomodations for Seniors affiliated with the Church either individually or collectively and among the facilities themselves. To ensure that the needs, problems and concerns are reviewed and addressed, and to develop and promote an understanding of values that are common in United Church affiliated facilities.

Membership

All facilities for Seniors affiliated with The United Church of Canada may be represented by either a member of the Board of Directors or by the Administrator or delegate. All members are equal. When and if a vote is taken, each facility will have one vote at the annual conference. Officers of the organization shall consist of the Chairperson, Secretary, and a Treasurer. These officers will serve in the same capacity in the Executive Committee.

Meetings

The organization will meet at least once every 2 years. Between Conferences the organization shall function through an Executive Committee. Minutes and Comment Sheets shall serve as the means of conducting the organization's business between Conferences. At the Conference, the Executive Committee will seek approval of all actions it has taken since the last Conference.

Minutes

Minutes of each meeting of the Conference shall be recorded; and shall be taken and kept by the Secretary. Minutes shall be reproduced and circulated by the representative of the Faith Formation and Education Unit, with copies to the Chairperson of the Boards of Directors and the Administrator of all affiliated facilities.

Functions

• to set terms of reference, goals and objectives for the organization
• to enhance and develop the relationship between The United Church of Canada and the affiliated facilities
• to develop and maintain a communications network among affiliated facilities
• to identify, review, and make recommendations with reference to the needs, concerns and problems of the affiliated facilities in issues relating to The United Church of Canada, what a United Church affiliated facility is and how these unique circumstances interact with outside influences
• to act as an informed lobby group with The United Church of Canada to meet these needs at national and local levels
• to act as an additional resource and/or advocacy body to The United Church of Canada and affiliated facilities in matters of mutual concern

Structure

The Organization of United Church Homes relates to The United Church of Canada through the Faith Formation and Education Unit.

Funding

An annual membership fee shall be determined by the elected Executive and is to be based on a sliding scale taking into account the size of the facility.