Professional Documents
Culture Documents
CUPCAKE
THE
SOCIETY
MEMBERS HANDBOOK 2014 - 2015
Copyright 2011 The Cupcake Society. All rights reserved. 2
OUR PHILOSOPHY
3
PINK SUGAR 4
THE LADIES WHO LUNCH 5
THE LADIES WHO LAUNCH 6-7
MEMBERSHIP INTAKE PROCESS 8
THE CONVENTION & THE ASSEMBLY OF TRUSTEES 9
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS & OFFICERS 10
POLICIES & PROCEDURES 11 -17
THE INGREDIENTS OF A CUPCAKE 18
TOUCH TONE COMMANDS 19
CUPCAKE AFFAIRS 20-21
RECOGNITION AWARDS 22-23
MEMBERS DIRECTORY 24
LETTER FROM FOUNDERS
TABLE OF CONTENT
Hey Cupcake!
Congratulations on becoming a member! As you begin your cupcake
adventure, it is our hope that you will discover, as we have, that The
Cupcake Society is more than an organization, it is a life-style. The
Cupcake Society has grown into a dynamic group of professional women
who are bound by a powerful source for positive change. We pride
ourselves on our formality, our bylaws, and that we simply want to enjoy
each other's company and the common interest of business, fashion &
charity.
Our meetings are usually scheduled on every first Sunday of the month,
starting in February and running through December rain or shine, at
various locations around the tri-state area. While our meetings offer
wonderful professional and personal development opportunities, you will
also find through membership, acceptance, new friends, and a collective
wealth of knowledge.
In this handbook, you will find essential materials that will provide you
with information to help you on your cupcake journey. We are eager to
help you succeed as a new member. We've been blessed with a super
group of sheroes, who are engaged and ready to contribute. We
invite you into our sisterhood and it is our sincere wish that you enjoy the
time you spend as a cupcake!
Sincerely,
CCS Founders
Nia E.
!"#$ !&''()*
Fashion illustrations and designs by British
designer, Hayden Williams.
3
OUR PHILOSOPHY
Our Mission:
Our mission is to promote women as a powerful force for positive change
in the world and to encourage women to embark on a journey of social
entrepreneurship.
Our Purpose:
Our purpose is to bring elegance back to life as well as encouraging and
nurturing women throughout their journey. Our core values consist of
intangible factors, a philosophy and some basic principles that we call our
fundamentals. Communication, Unity, Professionalism, Self- Confidence,
Accountability, Team Work, Integrity, and Social Change.
Our Fundamentals guide our every action, enabling us to make a
difference in an ever changing world.
The Four Founding Principles:
1.) The promotion of women empowerment.
2.) The development of character among females.
3.) The promotion of positive energy
4.) The promotion of social entrepreneurship.
Social Entrepreneurship?
The process of pursuing innovative solutions to social problems. More
specifically, social entrepreneurs adopt a mission to create and sustain
social value.
Our Culture
Its really our members that make The Cupcake Society the kind of
organization it is. We look for candidates who are passionate and
ambitious, and we favor ability over experience. Although we all share
common goals and visions for the company, we hail from all walks of life.
Pursuing interest ranging from fashion to volunteering, from gardening to
a day of literature at a nearby coffee shop.
In our feminine atmosphere, we strive to maintain an open culture, in
which everyone is a hands-on contributor and feels comfortable sharing
ideas, opinions and empowerment.
Who We Are:
We are a nurturing social network for young, passionate, women
between the ages of 18 - 30. When you belong to this network you are
apart of a sisterhood, spreading your creativity and talents within and
among the chapters of your life.
The Founders of this organization have been empowered on their life
journey and continue to share their experiences, knowledge and
resources with other young women.
What We Do:
The Cupcake Society supports the health and well being of women in our
immediate and surrounding communities. Our interaction are motivated by
a genuine mindfulness of our social responsibilities to support the quality
of services, community improvement, charitable initiatives, volunteerism
and positive influence.
What We Believe:
We believe in being involved in the communities we are a part of.
Bringing people together, inspiring change and making a difference in
people lives.
The Cupcake Society is a tri-state based organization.
Founded and developed in October 2010 by two
visionaries fueled by a common purpose.
Our pink heart represents feminine energy, good health, good
feeling. It also represents falling in love with self. Pink is the
combination of red and white. Red gives warmth and energy whereas,
white brings purity and clarity to the color pink.
Copyright 2011 The Cupcake Society. All rights reserved. 4
PHILANTHROPY CLUB
A group of women aspiring to be philanthropist. The idea behind the club
is to inspire a culture of philanthropy among professionals and to channel
their giving in a way that is strategic, effective and sustainable. This is
done through exclusive social and networking events in and around the tri-
state area, where members get together and exchange stories and
experiences, and engage directly with the clubs carefully selected
causes.
The Pink Sugar membership is free and available to anyone over the age
16. Meetings are held occasionally, on the 1st Sunday of every month.
Meetings usually start at 1pm and adjourned at 3pm.
TO QUALIFY, AN APPLICANT MUST:
be a female, 16 yrs. or older
live, or demonstrate community involvement in the Tri- State area.
BENEFITS:
As a member, you get access to a wide variety of tailor-made benefits;
Become a part of a diverse group of women
Participate in charitable causes
Special invites to networking events
Motivational conference calls and webinars
Access to The Reading Cafe Book Club
We offer volunteer programs for students, adults and families.
Start your own Pink Sugar Chapter and develop programs that interest
you and serve your community needs. For more information about local
volunteer opportunities, contact the membership committee.
Your Role
To coordinate, collaborate and
communicate. Being a part of philanthropic
activities in the area to create a greater
impact. A key role will be to communicate
activities through the media and events to
key audiences in the city and beyond.
We will educate, inform and enable
philanthropy among younger generations
through a range of services and by working
with several philanthropic initiatives. Also
hosting inspirational events and philanthropy
exhibition.
PI NK SUGAR
M E M B E R S H I P S
Philanthropy
5
THE TERM Ladies Who Lunch is a phrase used to describe well-
dressed women who meet occasionally at restaurants for social luncheons.
These luncheons usually takes place under the pretext of raising money
for charity and outreach programs.
STANDARD MEMBERSHIP
A sisterhood where you can spread your creativity and talents within and
among the chapters of your life. Also learn new skills, meet like-minded
individuals, and give back to the community.
TO QUALIFY, AN APPLICANT MUST:
be a female, 18 yrs. of age or older
live, or demonstrate community involvement in the Tri- State area
not be involved or interact with any other social organization
BENEFITS:
As a member, you get access to a wide variety of tailor-made benefits
designed to help your personal growth. Explore below the range of
benefits we have to offer;
Join a diverse group of like-minded individuals
Private meetings & social gatherings including;
!women workshops, girls night out and more!
Charitable causes and community service
Invites to special events
Valuable resources and connections in real time and on-demand.
You'll have access to real-time discussions and information exchanges
as they occur. (GroupMe Chat, Pg 14)
Members will have access to workshops and events .
WHO LUNCH
M E M B E R S H I P S
THE LADIES
Copyright 2011 The Cupcake Society. All rights reserved. 6
THE TERM Ladies Who Launch is a phrase used to describe our
online and offline social network that provides opportunities for women to
move their businesses and personal goals forward.
BUSINESS MEMBERSHIP
Our business membership exist to guide our business members along
their entrepreneurial journey. Sometimes that journey is difficult, and as
a business network, we help transform the lives of entrepreneurs who
transform the world. We educate, we inspire, and we offer invaluable
resources in the form of events, leadership development, empowerment
workshops, and other opportunities and resources designed for
business growth. This membership will provide a balanced perspective
for professional and personal development.
TO QUALIFY, YOU MUST:
be a female, 18 yrs. of age or older
be an owner/co owner or controlling shareholder of a company.
live, or demonstrate community involvement in the tri state area.
not be involved or interact with any other social organization
Benefits;
As a business member, you get access to a wide variety of tailor-made
benefits designed to help you grow your business and become a better
leader. A support system that offers numerous resources, connections,
and tools to help you excel in business. Explore some of the benefits
we have to offer below;
Free consultations
Free professional business documents and templates
Access to a list of professional contacts
Promotions of products and services online.
Discounted Members Only Blazer
Special invites to networking events
Entrepreneurship
THE LADIES
M E M B E R S H I P S
WHO LAUNCH
Valuable resources and connections in real time
and on-demand.
As a member, you have the opportunity to
exchange advice, referrals and connections with
other members. Glean from the learnings and
expertise of fellow members to supplement your
own and fill in the gaps. You'll have access to
real-time discussions and information exchanges
as they occur. (GroupMe Chat, Pg 14)
Members will have access to free business seminars
and workshops and events that can be experienced
in-person or online run by an experience business
coach. Special resource topics are chosen to match
community needs with expertise. We bring the
experts to you in a low-stress, lively setting that is
as much fun and invigorating as it is resourceful
and informative.
7
A woman is the full
circle. Within her is the
power to create,
nurture and
transform.
- Diane Mariechild
FOOD FOR THOUGHT:
Copyright 2011 The Cupcake Society. All rights reserved. 8
Open Meetings
In order to begin the membership process, applicants are require to attend
at least two open meeting within a year.
First Chapters
Throughout your membership you will be expected to complete your 1st
chapter. In order to complete your first chapter, you will need to complete
the following steps:
1. Select a topic (spend some time thinking about this. Your choice will be
instrumental in your enjoyment and satisfaction of the entire project.)
2. Submit a proposal to the membership committee.
3. Keep accurate records of the time spent on your project. You need to do
this from the time you begin your until the time you finish all paperwork.
4. Present your presentation.
Materials needed;
Black leather Portfolio - to keep track of your chapters
Cupcake Chapters
Chapters are intended to be a culminating experience. In planning,
designing, and executing your personal project, you will be expected to
bring together pieces of knowledge that you plan to gain throughout your
cupcake journey. In addition, you will be expected to gain a solid
understanding of what it is to be a "true cupcake".
Standard MIP
The process for membership begins immediately after the 1st follow up
call. After a prospective have applied and attended at least two open
meetings, each applicant will receive a phone-interview. After which,
applicants are require to sign a short-term contract. Once the initial
payment is submitted, applicants are then eligible for all membership
privileges.
60 Day Probation
A 60 day probationary period exists to help ensure that prospective
members are making adequate progress. Each member must demonstrate
the ability to pass the membership intake process. During this time,
prospective members cannot miss scheduled meetings, conference calls,
and/or CCS events.
Business MIP
The process for membership begins immediately after an applicant has
applied for membership and attend an one-on-one meeting with officials.
Each applicant will receive a phone-interview to confirm the details of
membership. After which they will receive their membership package
within 5-8 days. Business members are required to sign a short-term
contract. Once the initial payment is submitted, applicants are then eligible
for all membership privileges.
The Loyalty Pledge
The loyalty pledge is an oath of loyalty between The Cupcake Society, our
board members, members and officers. The purpose of this pledge is to
prepare members and officers for active membership in The Cupcake
Society. The Loyalty Pledge describes what we expect from our members.
Members must pledge to freely accept these responsibilities and commit to
the organization bylaws, policies and procedures before beginning
membership.
MEMBERSHIP INTAKE PROCESS
T H E P R O C E S S
9
THE CONVENTION & THE ASSEMBLY OF TRUSTEES
I. The Legislative Authority
A. The legislative authority of this organization shall be vested jointly
in the Founders. They shall have full power to adopt, amend or
repeal the laws and to do all things necessary and proper to carry
out the operations and the purpose of this organization. Except as
otherwise provided by these laws, no action shall be law until both
Founders have approved it.
II. The Assembly of Trustees
A. The Assembly of Trustees is responsible for the approval of the
mission tasks and the modifications of this organization. They
transmit information to members and bring feedback regarding the
specific needs of each membership.
B. The legislative authority and the assembly of trustees shall meet
annually at such date, time and place as the Board of Directors
may determine.
Quorum
(A quorum is the number of members who must be present in order to
conduct official business. The quorum protects against unrepresentative
actions by a small number of individuals.) The minimum number of officers
who must be present to conduct business include; a presiding Founder and
the Assembly of Trustees. At meetings where a quorum is not present, the
only actions that may be taken are to fix a time for adjournment, adjourn,
recess, or take measures to obtain a quorum (such as contacting absent
members). CCS votes by majority.
I. The Order of Business
A. The Assembly of Trustees shall determine the rules of their
proceedings and the order of business to be brought before them.
Except to the extent other rules are adopted, the Assembly of
Trustees shall be governed by the order of business specified
above;
Sign in/ identifying visitors
Reading and approving of minutes of previous meeting(s).
Reports from officers and standing committees.
Special orders (matters previously assigned a special priority).
Unfinished business (matters introduced in previous meetings).
New business (matters initiated in present meeting).
Voting
A. The board act by a vote of a majority, sent in writing by email, or
handed in a sealed envelope. All shall be notified of the vote and
such votes must be recorded in the minutes of the next regular or
special meeting.
II. Open Meetings
A. Any prospectives may attend an open meeting. The privileges of
the floor, but not the right to vote, shall be extended to all prospective
members.
FINANCES
I. The Funds
A. The funds of this organization shall be obtained by means of fees,
dues and assessments, and placed in the organization operating
fund. All fees, dues and assessments shall be collected by the
treasurer. The amount of such fees, dues and assessments shall be
established concurrently by the Board of Directors and published.
II. Annual Financial Reporting
A. The treasurer shall submit to the legislative authority a quarterly
report on the financial condition of this organization. Such report
shall include the appropriate financial statements, including but not
limited to, the statement of revenues and expenses, the statement
of fund balance, the statement of changes in fund balance, and
other appropriate financial statements.
B Y L A WS
Copyright 2011 The Cupcake Society. All rights reserved. 10
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS & OFFICERS
I. The Board of Directors Authority
A. The executive and administrative authority of this organization
shall be vested in the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors
shall manage the affairs of this company and shall report to and
be under the direction and control of The legislative authority.
II. The Officers - The officers of this organization shall be the President,
the Chairman of the Board, the Secretary, and the Treasurer, each of
whom shall be elected by the Assembly of Trustees.
A. The President shall be the Chief Rituals Officer of this organization,
shall appoint the nominating committee with the approval of the
Board, shall preside at the Assembly of Trustees, shall make an
quarterly report to the Board of Directors and the Assembly of
Trustees, and shall perform such other duties as the Assembly of
Trustees or the Board of Directors may require.
B. The Chairman of the Board shall be the Chief Executive Officer of
this organization, shall preside at all meetings of the Board of
Directors, shall appoint all committees, with the approval of the
Board, and shall perform such other duties as the Assembly of
Trustees or the Board of Directors may require.
C. The Secretary shall be the Chief Recording Officer of this
organization, shall keep the records and the minutes of the
Assembly of Trustees, and meetings of the Board of Directors, shall
attest to all contracts executed by a duly authorized officer of this
organization and shall perform such other duties as the Assembly
of Trustees or the Board of Directors may require.
D. The Treasurer shall be the Chief Financial Officer of this
organization, shall collect, receive and have the care and custody
of all moneys and securities of this organization, shall have
responsibility, under the direction of the Board of Directors, for
managing the financial affairs of this organization in accordance
with the Bylaws, shall make an annual report to the Board of
Directors and the Assembly of Trustees as to the financial
condition, and shall perform such other duties as the Assembly of
Trustees or the Board of Directors may require.
E. If the Board of Directors should appoint one, the Vice Presidents,
during the absence or disability of the President and in the order
of precedence established by the Board of Directors, shall perform
the duties of the President and shall perform such other duties as
the President or the Board of Directors may require.
III. Removal of Officers or Directors
A. For cause, the officers or the Board of Directors, by a two-thirds
vote of the Trustees present at the Assembly of Trustees or the
directors present at a meeting of the Board, may remove from
office any elected officer or director.
IV. Committees, subcommittees:
A. The Board of Directors shall establish such committees and non-
board officers as it deems necessary to assist in the administration
of the business. The chairman of the Board of Directors, after
consulting with other members of the Board, shall determine
committees and non-board officers. The chairman of the Board
shall appoint the chairman for each committee.The following
committees and/or non-board officers may be established:
Philantrophy Committee - works to promote one of the most
important pillars of our sorority: service.
Membership Committee - Assisting with Membership Contact
and planning rush week and open meetings.
Fundraising Committee - helps raise funds for various activities
throughout the year.
Public Relations Committee - coordinating all media, promotion,
and external affairs information.
Sisterhood Committee - plans the sisterhood events once a
quarter
Social Committee - plans and executes all social events
B Y L A WS
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POLICIES & PROCEDURES
Conflict of Interest
The Conflict of Interest Policy along with a non-disclosure and a non-
solicitation agreement is to be signed by all members of the board of
directors and all members of this organization on an annual basis. The
signed documents must be kept on file. A member shall not become
involved with causes, organizations, events or activities that conflict with
the best interest of this organization, or otherwise compromise in any
manner of the integrity of this organization. A person involved in such
activities may be censured, as deemed.
A conflict of interest policy includes the following considerations:
A member must avoid any activity that conflicts with the interests of the
company.