Frequently Asked Questions about NFBPWC-NYC and the benefits of the membership
Q. What is the New York Minute?
A. The consolidated aims and goals of BPW-International (and NFBPW-NYC) is to develop the professional, leadership and business potential of women on all levels through advocacy, mentoring, networking, skill building and our economic empowerment programs and projects around the world.
Q. Why is the organization in the United States called National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs (NFBPWC) and not Business and Professional Women (BPW)?
A. In 1919, our founder Lena Madison Phillips created this organization. She was born in 1881 in Kentucky and became a lawyer in 1917. She was a true visionary. In 1930, she created the International Federation of Business and Professional Women (IFBPW), that is also known as BPW-International.
Q. How can I get more involved?
A. NFBPWC-NYC offers many opportunities for members to become involved. Attending meetings will enable you to become more familiar with those ways, but here are a few ideas:
- Join a committee: Membership, Ambassador, Mentoring, PR, Advocacy and Legislation, and Programs to name a few. Don’t be shy. Contact us @ nfbpwcnyc@gmail.com and make known your talents, desires and interests.
- Read our emails and newsletters, as well as action alerts.
- Visit our websites for updates at nfbpwc-nyc.org; nfbpwc.org; www.bpw-international.org.
- Fill out all questionnaires sent to you so that the organization will have a complete profile of you, your interests and goals in order to help best determine how you can help us and how we can help you.
Q. How do I become an officer or board member?
A. Officers and board members are generally elected at the Annual General Meetings. Sometimes you may just submit your application, but you may actually have to campaign and/or be interviewed. However, when vacancies occur during the term of office, the President may appoint you. Let your interest be known.
Q. How often are meetings?
- The International Congress is every three (3) years.
- The Regional Meetings are usually every two (2) years.
- The National Assembly (NFBPWC-USA) meets every two (2) years.
- Most states meet at least annually, but each sets its own schedule.
- Most local chapters meet monthly, but each sets its own schedule.
NFBPWC-New York City has a monthly program or activity. Some are content based, i.e., economic trends and issues, leading edge theories, business expansion and growth, and leadership and personal development events. Some we co-sponsor with other organizations. i.e. Equal Pay Day Rally at City Hall. Some are fun activities i.e., “Cocktails and Conversations” or “How to Look Better in Photos.”
Q. How do I get copies of the by-laws?
A. Every year, a copy of the by-laws are sent out prior to the Annual General Meeting and with the call for nominations of new officers. Otherwise, members may contact one of the respective Board members and ask.
Q. How does NFBPWC operate?
A. We follow Robert’s Rules. Each affiliate of the organization has its own by-laws, which must comply with BPW International. We are funded by various means such as corporate sponsorship, corporate and individual donations, member dues, and fund-raising.
Q. What does membership get me?
- UN Participation: NFBPWC-NYC (as an affiliate of BPW International) members can be accredited to attend meetings at the United Nations as observers, enabling them to take back issues and policies for further lobbying. Ten members of NFBPWC-NYC are UN Reps and attend regular meetings of various UN Committees and are actively engaged in creating side events during the annual UN Commission on the Status of Women. Questions – ask a U N Rep, they are listed under the UN tab on this website.
- Worldwide Network: Members from five continents visit NYC regularly for their own enjoyment and business meetings. Many attend the annual CSW meetings and events, including the BPW Leaders’ Conference and the Claire Fulcher Dinner in March. During these visits, NFBPWC-NYC members are invited to come meet our international sisters. Additionally, members may connect with other NFBPWC and BPW members through “BPW Online” digital network, “twinning projects,” regional conferences and International Congress.
- Business & Member Pages: Individual members can publicize their business and professions on our NFBPWC-NYC website, in the newsletter and on the national and international websites.
- Recognition for Members: NFBPWC-NYC, NFBPWC-USA and BPW websites are showcases for the accomplishments of our members, chapters, clubs and federations. NFBPWC-USA, and NFBPWC-NYC members may also be selected as experts in special fields or nominated for awards when opportunities arise. NFBPWC-NYC spotlights a Member of the Month category on its website and in its Newsletter.
- Leadership Development: NFBPWC-NYC offers a variety of opportunities to develop one’s leadership skills or to use their leadership skills to enhance the lives of women. BPW International, NFBPWC-USA and NFBPWC-NYC offer mentoring and leadership training for personal development. Young Professional NFBPWC members, aged younger than 35, are also represented on the BPW International Executive at the international level. Board positions are also available on the regional, local and national level.
- Support for Projects: BPW International affiliates’ capacity building projects for women may be selected as “BPW International Listed Projects.” Such projects will be promoted in the international community to call for supportive resources.
- Networking Opportunities: NFBPWC-NYC offers a variety of networking opportunities including the “Needs and Leads,” portion of its monthly programs, where members make and receive leads. There are also networking opportunities through NFBPWC-USA, and BPW provides opportunities to establish those all important elements of respect, trust, friendship and possible business connections.
NFBPWC-NYC offers a variety of opportunities to develop friendships, networks, business opportunities and connections on a local, national, regional and international level. People do business with those they know, like and trust. Become involved so you can become known and obtain the benefits that are all around you.
Q. Can I live in one state or country and join in another?
Absolutely. Many members join and are active in their native country or state, but also become affiliate members where they do business. If there is no chapter/club in your state, you may join either a nearby state or city or directly with NFBPWC-USA as a virtual member.