Bylaws of Above and Beyond Labs
Empowering Accessibility Beyond Limits
Article I: Name and Mission
Section 1: Name
The name of the organization shall be Above and Beyond Labs, a nonprofit organization incorporated in the state of California.
Section 2: Mission
Above and Beyond Labs exists to empower innovation and accessibility by creating adaptive products, assistive technology training programs, and accessible smart home solutions for blind and low-vision individuals.
Article II: Board of Directors
Section 1: General Powers
The affairs of the corporation shall be managed by the Board of Directors, with support from the Executive Director. The Executive Director shall oversee daily operations, implement board decisions, and ensure alignment with the organization’s mission and strategic goals.
Section 2: Number of Directors
The Board shall consist of no fewer than 5 and no more than 11 directors.
Section 3: Term Length
Directors shall serve terms of 3 years. Directors may be re-elected to additional terms without limitation.
Section 4: Election Process
New directors shall be elected by a majority vote of the existing board. Nominations may be submitted by current board members or other stakeholders.
Section 5: Removal of Directors
A director may be removed by a two-thirds majority vote of the board for failure to perform duties, conflict of interest, or other valid reasons.
Section 6: Quorum
A quorum shall consist of a simple majority of the total number of directors.
Article III: Officers
Section 1: Officer Roles and Duties
- President: Presides over meetings, ensures the implementation of board decisions.
- Vice President: Assists the President and assumes their role in their absence.
- Secretary: Maintains meeting minutes, official records, and oversees notices for meetings.
- Treasurer: Oversees financial management, including budgets, reports, and financial compliance.
Section 2: Election of Officers
Officers shall be elected annually by the Board of Directors at the first meeting of the fiscal year.
Section 3: Term Length
Officers shall serve for a term of 1 year and may be re-elected without term limits.
Article IV: Executive Director
Section 1: Role and Responsibilities
The Executive Director shall oversee daily operations, manage staff, and implement the strategic goals and policies set by the Board. The Executive Director shall serve as an ex-officio, non-voting member of the Board.
Section 2: Authority as a Signer
The Executive Director is authorized to sign financial instruments, contracts, and agreements within limits set by the Board of Directors.
Article V: Meetings
Section 1: Regular Meetings
Regular meetings of the Board shall be held quarterly at a time and place determined by the board.
Section 2: Special Meetings
Special meetings may be called by the President or any two directors with at least 7 days’ notice.
Section 3: Notice
Notice of all meetings shall be given via email at least 7 days in advance.
Article VI: Committees
Section 1: Standing Committees
The Board may establish standing committees such as Finance, Fundraising, and Programs to oversee specific functions.
Section 2: Ad Hoc Committees
The President or Board may create ad hoc committees as necessary to address specific projects or tasks.
Article VII: Financial Management
Section 1: Fiscal Year
The fiscal year of Above and Beyond Labs shall run from January 1 to December 31.
Section 2: Budget Approval
The annual budget shall be prepared by the Executive Team and approved by a majority vote of the Board.
Section 3: Signatory Authority
The President, Treasurer, and Executive Director are authorized to sign financial instruments, contracts, and agreements on behalf of Above and Beyond Labs. Two signatures are required for transactions exceeding limits set by the Board.
Article VIII: Conflict of Interest
Section 1: Disclosure
All directors, officers, and staff must disclose potential conflicts of interest.
Section 2: Resolution
The Board shall determine appropriate action to manage conflicts, including recusal from votes or decisions.
Article IX: Amendments
Section 1: Process
These bylaws may be amended by a two-thirds majority vote of the Board of Directors, provided that written notice of the proposed amendments is distributed at least 14 days prior to the meeting.
Article X: Dissolution
Section 1: Asset Distribution
Upon dissolution, the remaining assets shall be distributed to another 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a similar mission, as determined by the Board of Directors.