Our constitution

PREAMBLE

 

We the members of the Health Retirees Association (HRA) recognising the need to unite as a body of Retired Health Care Workers and desiring to promote holistic well-being, do hereby adopt this Constitution to govern our association.

 

NAME & MOTTO

 

The name of the association shall be the Health Retirees Association (HRA).

 

Motto: “Empowered Living, Lasting Impact”.

 

HEALTH RETIREES ASSOCIATION (HRA) PURPOSE

 

The purpose of the Health Retirees Association is to create a vibrant and supportive community of retired healthcare workers that prioritise holistic well-being through spirituality, organisation, wellness, financial empowerment, and active community development. We aim to promote a fulfilling and purpose-driven post-retirement life that continues to make a positive impact on society, while upholding Christian values and ethical principles.

 

VISION STATEMENT

 

To be a leading association of retired healthcare workers dedicated to enriching lives, fostering unity, and making lasting contributions to personal and community development through faith and excellence.

 

MISSION STATEMENT

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To support and empower Health Retirees by providing opportunities for spiritual growth, organizational engagement, wellness promotion, financial literacy and community service, ensuring meaningful and productive retirement years.

 

CORE VALUES

 

1. Faith Trusting God as the cornerstone of all our endeavours. “Commit to the Lord whatever you do and He will establish your plans (Proverbs 16:3).

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2. Integrity Upholding honesty, transparency and ethical behavior in all our activities.

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3. Service Demonstrating compassion and selflessness in our service to others.

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4. Unity Fostering collaboration and mutual support among members and

 

5. Excellence Striving for the highest standards in everything we do.

 

SIX PILLARS

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1. Spirituality Promote faith-based programs, prayer meetings and bible studies to strengthen members’ spiritual lives; Encourage reliance on God for guidance, healing and purpose in retirement and Create a platform for sharing testimonies and faith-building experiences.

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2. Organising Build an organized structure for effective administration and coordination of activities; Facilitate regular meetings, seminars and workshops to discuss relevant topics and Develop mentorship programs where retirees can guide new entrance members.

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3. Wellness Advocate for and provide access to healthcare services, fitness programs, and healthy lifestyle workshops; Support mental health through counseling services and social interaction and Organise regular health screenings and identify fitness challenges.

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4. Finance Equip members with financial management skills, estate retirement planning and investment strategies; Create a co-operative savings scheme or welfare fund to assist members in times of need and Encourage entrepreneurship among retirees.

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5. Community Development & Participation Mobilize members to participate in outreach programs and community service projects; Establish partnerships with organizations to extend professional skills to underserved communities and Support local initiatives that promote health and education.

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6. Research and innovation : Mthatha's retired health experts identifying community-specific needs. Documenting local health patterns, sharing expertise and experience through mentorship, and adapting proven solutions for our unique context.

 

ARTICLES

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Article 1 Membership:

• Membership is open to all retired healthcare workers who align with the values of HRA.

• Membership categories: Executive Members; Additional Members and Coordinators.

• Members shall uphold the association's vision, mission and core values.

 

Article 2 Governance:

Executive Council shall include the President; Deputy President; Chairman; Deputy Chairman; Secretary; Deputy Secretary and Treasurer.

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Article 3 Regular meetings shall be held as follows:

• Annual general meeting (AGM) - This will be held on an annual basis for elections and planning;

• Executive virtual meetings shall be held monthly;

• General meetings shall be held on a quarterly basis;

• Special meetings may be called by the President when need arises 

• The term of the office shall be three (03) years.

 

Article 4 Code of ethics:

• Members shall act with honesty, integrity, and professionalism;

• Members shall respect confidentiality and privacy in all dealings and Members shall avoid conflicts of interest and uphold the association's reputation.

 

Article 5 Financial Policy:

• A transparent system shall govern all financial dealings;

• Members shall contribute monthly dues and support fundraising initiatives;

• To be a member one must pay a joining fee which will be renewed annually. Failure to comply with the above (in three consecutive months) will result in forfeiture or cessation of membership;

• Any dues that may be required from time to time must be paid and

• An annual audit shall be conducted to ensure accountability.

 

Article 6

Amendment of the Constitution: Proposal of the Constitution amendment shall be discussed at the AGM and will be amended by two-thirds majorly of the managing structure.

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ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF EXECUTIVE MEMBERS

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President
The President serves as the head and chief strategic officer of the Association. Responsibilities include:

• Defining and guiding the strategic direction of the Association

• Ensuring accountability among Executive Members and Pillar Convenors

• Leading planning initiatives

• Managing internal dynamics and diversity

• Making key decisions and resolving conflicts

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Deputy President

• Supports the President as needed and performs duties delegated by the President or Executive Council.

• Acts as a substitute when required.

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Chairperson

In the absence of the President or Deputy President, the Chairperson assumes presidential duties. Key functions include:

• Balancing the interests of diverse stakeholders

• Leading and moderating meetings

• Providing strategic oversight

• Guiding the Association toward its mission

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Deputy Chairperson

• Assists the Chairperson and steps in during their absence.

• Executes responsibilities as assigned by the Chairperson.

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Secretary

As the chief administrative officer of HRA, the Secretary is responsible for:

• Serving as the official spokesperson of the Association

• Recording minutes and maintaining official records

• Managing correspondence between the Executive and members/branches

• Communicating decisions and directives from Executive meetings

• Preparing reports and documents as requested by the President or Executive

• Overseeing the Association’s marketing and public relations

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Deputy Secretary

• Provides support to the Secretary and assumes their duties when necessary.

• Carries out tasks assigned by the Secretary or Executive Council.

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Treasurer

Acts as the principal custodian of the Association’s finances, assets, and property. Duties include:

• Receiving and depositing funds in coordination with two authorized members

• Maintaining accurate financial records and accounts

• Presenting income, expenditure, and balance sheet reports to the Executive

• Submitting periodic financial updates

• Collaborating with the Executive and relevant committees to develop and implement fundraising strategies

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Succession Protocol

In the event of resignation, permanent incapacity, or death of an Executive Member, the remaining Council shall appoint an interim officer to serve until the next Annual General Meeting (AGM), where formal elections will be held.