What is membership about?

RVA welcomes a wide membership base as this demonstrates a active voluntary sector and enables a strong voice for the sector at Partnership Meetings.

RVA is composed of its member organisations whose representatives have the right to nominate Trustees and vote at the Annual General Meeting for the members of the Board of Trustees.

The Board of Trustees oversees the work of RVA and is the accountable body for it.

In effect, R.V.A. is responsive to the needs of its member organisations, and its work is planned accordingly. R.V.A. actively seeks the views of member organisations on issues which may affect them by talking to individuals, by holding forum meetings, by inviting comments on discussion documents etc. It also acts as an advocate for the voluntary sector in Ryedale ensuring statutory agencies are fully aware of the importance of this sector locally.

How does membership benefit an organisation?

• Contact. As members, organisations receive the Annual Report, a Newsletter and a funding newsletter four times a year and access to services and equipment.
• Services. These include free fundraising advice and support, and equipment loan. Payroll services are available for a modest charge.
• Information. Much of our work relates to the giving of help or information about aspects of supporting or managing a voluntary organisation. Regular ‘Forum Lunches’ help to update members on current issues or developments.
• Volunteers. Through our Volunteer Centre we aim to locate people who can give their time and expertise to help a group.
• Networking. We encourage anybody who is concerned with local welfare to develop contacts with us. We are especially happy to try to assist new and developing groups. Meeting other groups is always beneficial.
• Advocacy. R.V.A. is therefore in a position to support the views of its membership in meetings with other bodies such as the District and County Councils, Primary Care Trust and other organisations, both Regional and National.