Expansion Manual

SOME SPECIFIC AREAS WHERE THE ASSOCIATION
SHOULD ASSIST THE COLONY/CHAPTER?

1) Upon the formation of a FarmHouse colony, assist the colony in finding temporary common housing as soon as possible. Check with the university on the possibilities of buying or renting university property. It is recommended that the individual colony/chapter members living in the house sign a room contract with the Association and be required to give a room deposit.

2) Discuss colony/chapter size and rush goals. The average size FarmHouse chapter is 45 men. Chapters/colonies and Associations should not limit their size to a small number just because the current housing will not hold more than the present number in the colony/chapter.

3) Make suggestions to the colony/chapter regarding prospective associate members and potential chapter advisors.

4) Association Board of Directors hold monthly meetings at the colony/chapter house.

5) Assist the chapter in developing a realistic budget. Rent the chapter pays to the Association should not only cover the Association's rental or mortgage payments, but should also include money for the purchase of furniture, drapes, dinnerware, kitchen utensils, structure maintenance, etc., and money set aside for future improved housing.

6) Research the costs of other student housing to insure that local FarmHouse costs are competitive.

7) At least annually review colony/chapter housing needs to determine major improvements to be made and long-range needs and possibilities for renting, purchasing, or building improved housing.

8) Review the chapter's insurance policy every year to make certain that adequate property, liability, workmen's compensation, etc., insurance is acquired. (Workmen's compensation insurance is likely a requirement for the cook and possibly for the housemother. Check with other fraternities on your campus to see what procedure there may be.)

9) Coordinate all alumni fund-raising activities.

10) Assist the colony/chapter with pledge and total membership education.

11) Attend the alumni functions of the colony/chapter each year.

12) Cooperate with the colony/chapter in planning and conducting annual Homecoming and Founders' Day Activities.

13) Cooperate with the colony/chapter in the preparation and distribution of at least two newsletters per year to alumni and parents.

14) Counsel the colony/chapter membership regarding recruitment, organizational management, financial, and personal problems, etc.

15) Provide a year-end Association audit report to the colony/chapter.