Bylaws for Mental Health Patient Family Advisory Council
Application process
In order to achieve a diverse representation and work towards our mission the Council has created an application process for potential members:
- Online applications will be forwarded to Staff Facilitators for approval.
- Application will be forwarded to Parent Chair for verbal interview.
- Upon approval from Parent Chair, member will move forward through Volunteer onboarding and be invited to next meeting.
Size
The council will strive for membership of no less than 8 family members and no more than 15 family members at any given time. Children’s Mercy staff are non-voting members.
Terms
Commit to serve on the Mental Health Patient Family Advisory Council for a minimum of 2 years. Terms begin at approval of application. Members will consist of parents and caregivers of child/children who receive services at Children’s Mercy. Terms may be renewed for members in good standing.
Attendance
Consistent and active attendance is vital to the purpose of the Council. Each member is strongly encouraged to attend and participate in all PFAC meetings and conference calls. Council members are required to attend 50% of the meetings within a 12-month period either in-person or phone/videoconference. It will be assumed all members will be in attendance. If a member cannot attend, out of courtesy for the group he/she will notify Parent Chair as soon as possible via email. Meetings are subject to be canceled or rescheduled if majority of members are unavailable. A quorum of 50% either in person or electronically (or a combination) is required to vote on issues. All decisions that require a vote need a simple majority to pass.
Officer elections
Council members can nominate themselves or other members for leadership roles. Elections will be held every June as terms will be limited to a year with a one-time renewal option.
Chair
Organize and lead meetings, including defining agenda and action items. The Chair will be the PFAC representative at official meetings when needed.
Co-Chair
Support the Chair in his/her duties including serving as acting Chair during the Chair’s absence.
Staff Support
Record minutes, track the member volunteer hours associated with this PFAC and submit them to PFE Team.
Member expectations
The council will serve as an action-oriented group, with expectations of time investment outside of the meetings. However, it is important to note that this council will not meet the needs and capacity of a Support group.
Members will:
- Serve as an advisory resource to administration and staff.
- Advocate for education, and clinical programs to improve the quality and accessibility of care.
- Assist in the development and review of educational materials.
- Respectfully listen and tactfully discuss ideas, issues and concerns.
- Respect the privacy and confidentiality of council members, their families and all staff.
- Actively participate with expectations of time investment outside of the meetings.
Any articles of these Guidelines may be added, deleted, or amended by majority of the vote of at least 2/3 of the council.