Committees

The planning and much of the work of the Handcrafted Soapmakers Guild is done by volunteers through Committees.

The HSMG bylaws specify several "standing committees" - that is, committees that are permanently established. Each standing committee, with the exception of the Ethics Committee, is chaired by a member of the Board of Directors and manned by volunteers who are appointed by the Chair (and approved by the Board).

Standing Committees

Policies, Procedures and Bylaws Committee

The Policies, Procedures and Bylaws Committee is responsible for:

• Developing and maintaining a Policy and Procedure Manual
• Periodically reviewing and suggesting changes to the Policy and Procedure Manual to the Board of Directors
• Reviewing all submitted amendments, proposing amendments and ensuring, with the assistance of legal counsel, that the bylaws and all policies and procedures are in compliance with applicable federal and state statutes.

Contact: bylawscomm@soapguild.org

Conference Committee

The Conference Committee plans and executes the Annual Conference.

Contact: conference@soapguild.org

Finance Committee

The Finance committee has general supervision of the finances and presents a proposed budget to the Board of Directors in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year for the upcoming year.

Contact: finance@soapguild.org

Programs and Services

The Programs and Services Committee is responsible for developing and implementing programs and services to benefit the membership and the handcrafted soap industry.

Contact: programsandservices@soapguild.org

Membership

The Membership Committee is responsible for actively promoting the HSMG and recruiting new HSMG members.

Contact: membership@soapguild.org

Certification

The Certification Committee is responsible for developing and maintaining a comprehensive Soapmaker Certification Program including study materials, examination and examination procedures.

Contact: certification@soapguild.org

Special Committees

Special committees may be created as necessary by the Board of Directors. Currently there are 3 Special Committees active.

Social Media Committee

The Social Media Committee is responsible for the HSMG's social networking activities, including Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter, and more, and to provide a venue for the HSMG and its' membership to connect and share valuable information.

Public Relations Committe

The Public Relations Committee:

• Responds to and corrects any negative and misinformation about handcrafted soap;
• Develops and maintains positive relationships with local and regional soap groups;
• Promotes and increases awareness of the HSMG to other soapmakers, the public and media;
• Monitors and responds to changes or legislation that affects the soapmaking industry;
• Creates an image of social consciousness and environmental responsibility

International Representative Committee (IRC)

The IRC is responsible for expanding the HSMG internationally and actively promoting and creating a platform for a global soapmaking community, ensuring its integrity while outside the mainland USA.

Ethics Committee

The Ethics Committee is responsible for;

• The overisgnt of the correct use of any member seals, trademarks or indicia as adopted by the Board of Directors,
• Education of the members on professional ethics and furtherance of ethical guidelines for the benefit and good of the HSMG and its members,
• Investigation of member complaints alleging violations of the Bylaws, the Adopted Rules of the HSMG and/or State or Federal laws and regulations for possible disciplinary action.
• Responding to inquiries concerning the ethical business practices of the members and investigation of any allegations of unethical or illegal practices.
• When founded, make appropriate disciplinary recommendation to the Board of Directors in accordance with established and adopted HSMG policies and rules.

Unlike other committees, the members of the Ethics Committee are appointed by the President for a three-year term. The intent is that each ensuing Presidential term will appoint one member to the committee, thus ensuring that the Ethics Committee members remain separate from and not influenced by the current Board in the execution of their duties of ethics oversight.

Contact: ethics@soapguild.org

Advisory Council

The Board of Directors of the HSMG may invite, by unanimous consent, acknowledged leaders in the various fields relating to handcrafted soap to serve on an Advisory Council. The duties of the Advisory Council are to provide professional input and advice to the Board of Directors in such matters that further the goals and objectives of the HSMG.