AZA and BBG work because they're run by us. If you want to see something changed in our Movement, you can write a motion. If you want to serve in an elected position, you can run. If you want to start a new campaign, you can organize. AZA and BBG are different because we are member-led and staff supported. You've got the power to make this your movement. How will you use it?
For a movement to run and grow, it needs shared operating procedures. In AZA and BBG, we have standardized ways and best practices for
elections, running business meetings, writing constitutions, branding ourselves, and more.
AZA and BBG elections generally happen every six months on the chapter level and annually on the council, regional, and International level. While there may be nuances from community to community about running elections, we have standardized procedures on how Alephs and BBGs are elected to leadership positions. If you are running elections for your community, this information will come in handy. There's a lot to know!
Election ProtocolsElections Script
Constitutions are the established rules and principles that guide our governance. At every level of AZA and BBG, there should be a constitution. The constitution is our source of truth when we're unsure about decisions, and you have the power through legislation to put forth changes you wish to see. If your chapter, council, region, or country does not have a constitution yet, view AZA's and BBG's International constitutions as a model or contact our International Mazkirim for support.
AZA Int'l ConstitutionBBG Int'l Constitution
While it may seem complicated and confusing at times, parliamentary procedure is incredibly helpful in running a successful meeting. The procedures ensure order, maintain consistency across meetings and protect the rights of the members. We are a democracy, after all! These procedures were adapted from many sources including Robert's Rules of Order, which is a standard across governments and institutions.
Learn the Rules
Our brand is our identity and how you choose to represent it reflects on all of us. From the swag you make for your chapter or conventions to the graphics you post on social media, we have to ensure that people not only perceive AZA and BBG in a positive light, but are inspired to want to be a part of it. Click on the files below to download the main logo files for designs in your community. Anything that you print with these logos should represent our Movement positively and adhere to brand standards.
There are important dates to keep in mind when prioritizing our operations. These dates include hands-on training opportunities, Movement mobilization moments, registration dates, and relevant programs that tie to governance and democracy. Check back for constitution workshops, election packet dates, board trainings, and more.
July 1
Today starts the operations for the new BBYO programming year.
August-September
Utilize the resources on this website to train your board at meetings and conventions.
August 15-18
A convening of all community presidents to launch the year.
September 26
See our democracy in action in Denver this February.
November 7
Learn the basics of our operating principles at one of our summer leadership experiences.
December 3
Help us mobilize to raise thousands of dollars to support running BBYO.
December
For the 95th Grand Board of AZA and 75th International Board of BBG
January-February
Utilize the resources on this website to train your board at meetings and conventions.
January 6-9
An annual convening of all BBYO staff for training, collaboration, and fun.
February 12-17
See our democracy in action in Denver this February.
February 16
Elections for the 95th Grand Board of AZA and 75th International Board of BBG.
March
Our advisors give their time to ensure AZA and BBG are possible. Let's honor them.
April 22
Celebrate BBG's 75th anniversary with your chapter.
May 3
Celebrate AZA's 95th anniversary with your chapter.
June 30
End of operations for the current BBYO programming year.
Want to keep learning? Explore more governance and democracy tools below!
Learn a few insider tips for how to market your experiences in your community.
ExploreAction planning is a process that focuses your ideas and determines what steps you need to take to achieve your goals. Review the steps of action planning to see what should happen after you set a goal with your board.
ExploreFill out this template to make your goals a reality.
ExploreThis form allows any member to easily participate in a business meeting by submitting amendments (requested changes) to a piece of legislation. Print copies of this form before any business meeting.
ExploreThe BBYO Code of Conduct is designed with the health, safety, and well-being of teens, staff, advisors, and participants in mind. By being a member of AZA and BBG, you have committed to abiding by the rules of our Code of Conduct.
ExploreChairs and committees are excellent ways to spread leadership roles in your community. Learn about the different kinds of opportunities you can create for members.
ExploreUnderstand the specific responsibilities of our commonly elected positions in AZA and BBG.
ExploreSplitting a chapter? Launching a new community for BBYO? This guide is about to be your new best friend.
ExploreReference this checklist anytime you are building marketing materials for a program.
ExploreThere's a lot that goes into running an election. From nominations to to slide downs to caucuses—here's your guide to how we do it in AZA and BBG.
ExploreBBYO elections are run using parliamentary procedure. Have a copy of this script on hand anytime you run elections.
ExploreThis resource will walk you through the motions before, during, and after your event to successfully capture it with photos.
ExploreUse this script when putting together your States Ceremony at any level of AZA and BBG. A States Ceremony is an opportunity for the Godol and/or N'siah to share wins and visions for the future of their community.
ExploreVideo is one of the most effective tools for reaching the teen audience. Use this guide to learn some basic tips on how to up your video game and reach more teens than ever before.
ExploreWriting legislation and passing motions and resolutions are a powerful tool that Alephs and BBGs have to call for and chart plans to enact change in their local and BBYO communities, celebrate achievements, and share best practices and visions. Learn how you can write a motion.
ExploreOfficially welcome your new AZA or BBG board with the Installations Ceremony.
ExploreHere are some tips on how to run an awesome social media story takeover on an official BBYO account.
ExploreCheck that your business meeting agenda is ready to go by referencing this document. If you don't know where to start with your agenda, this is a great place.
ExploreOur Order is a democratic one. We're member-led and practice "parli-pro." And while we don't always agree, there is a way to dissent with order and respect to our brothers and sisters, and the process.
ExploreA sign-in should be present at every event to ensure we are keeping track of who we are engaging with. We want to easily be able to follow-up with anyone who comes through the door!
ExploreWe set goals all the time in AZA and BBG about membership, programming, fundraising, and more. If you're setting goals, be sure they're SMART ones.
ExploreSocial media is one of our best tools to mobilize and promote our Movement. If you are running your chapter or community's social media, be sure to know these tips.
ExploreAny official BBYO event should have a Snapchat filter. Download these to use at your next program!
ExploreThe Executive “Exec” Board is made up of all elected chapter officers, committees, and chairpeople. Their job is to ensure the chapter is healthy and operating at full capacity. Learn more about how the board works.
ExploreLearn the basic dos and don'ts of running meetings.
ExploreFor all of our committed Alephs and BBGs supporting our democratic values—we want to celebrate you. By following our governance standards, you may be eligible for a number of highly esteemed AZA and BBG International Awards including the Shield of David, the Star of Deborah, Henry Monsky Chapter Excellence, Miriam Albert Chapter Excellence, and Maurice Bisgyer Chapter Excellence Awards. If you know an Aleph or BBG who deserves to be recognized for their work strengthening our priorities, consider nominating them for the Menorah Pledge and Cardinal Principles Awards.
Learn more about your eligibility by exploring these awards below:
