Preserve the Heart of Our Recovery Community
The Chilliwack Alano Club has been a cornerstone of our community for decades, providing a welcoming space for individuals in recovery, their families, and others seeking connection, fellowship, and support. For many, the club is much more than a building. It is a place where friendships form, recovery journeys are strengthened, and people find a sense of belonging.

The cook, Debbie, with over two decades of service is a valuable asset to the club, helping provide meals and maintain a welcoming atmosphere where members can gather, connect, and support one another in their recovery journeys. The kitchen is more than a place where food is prepared; it is an integral part of the club’s community life.

At the heart of this community is the kitchen. It is where coffee is shared, meals bring people together, conversations begin, and lasting connections are formed. The kitchen is an important part of the club’s daily operations and plays a meaningful role in maintaining the supportive environment that so many people rely on.

Today, concerns about the club’s future extend beyond the kitchen to include its governance, transparency, and the rights of its members.

Concerns About Governance and Membership Rights
Questions have been raised regarding changes to the bylaws under which the club is currently operating, including concerns about the rights of general members to vote and the process for appointing or removing directors.

Members have expressed concern that a newly formed group of directors, led by President Don Murphy, may be relying on a revised version of the bylaws that has not been properly approved by the membership. Concerns have also been raised about the reported removal of elected directors, including Greg Hasell, and whether the appropriate procedures were followed.

These matters require transparency and independent verification. The club’s registered constitution and bylaws, the applicable requirements of the Societies Act of British Columbia, and any valid resolutions or filings should be reviewed to establish which rules are legally in effect.

Under British Columbia’s Societies Act, changes to a society’s bylaws generally require approval by special resolution and must be filed with the Registrar to take effect. The specific requirements and legal consequences depend on the nature of the proposed changes and the circumstances. Members deserve clear documentation explaining any changes, the approvals obtained, and the current status of the club’s governing documents.

This petition does not seek to prejudge the legal validity of any individual’s actions. Rather, it calls for an open, fair, and accountable process that respects the rights of members and protects the integrity of the organization.

Protecting the Kitchen and the Club’s Future
The kitchen is more than a food preparation area. It is a gathering place that helps sustain the community the Chilliwack Alano Club has built over many years. Any threat to its continued operation raises legitimate concerns about the club’s ability to provide a welcoming and supportive environment.

We believe that decisions affecting the kitchen, the club’s operations, and its future should be made transparently, with appropriate consideration of the needs and interests of the membership and the broader recovery community.

Community support, fundraising, local business sponsorships, and applications for eligible grants may help preserve and improve this essential facility. We encourage community leaders, local businesses, members, and concerned citizens to work together toward a sustainable future for the club.

What This Petition Calls For
We, the undersigned, respectfully call for:

1. Transparency regarding the bylaws: Make the currently registered constitution and bylaws, any proposed amendments, relevant special resolutions, and applicable filing records available to members.
2. Respect for membership voting rights: Clarify members’ voting rights under the valid governing documents and ensure that all membership decisions follow the applicable bylaws and British Columbia law.
3. A fair and transparent director process: Provide clarification and supporting documentation concerning any director removals, appointments, or other changes to the board, including whether the required procedures were followed.
4. Independent review where necessary: Seek appropriate independent legal or regulatory guidance to resolve outstanding questions about governance and compliance.
5. Protection of the kitchen: Work toward keeping the kitchen operational and accessible, subject to applicable safety, financial, and operational requirements.
6. Community involvement and sustainable funding: Explore grants, donations, sponsorships, and fundraising opportunities to preserve the kitchen and support the club’s long-term operations.
7. Open communication and accountability: Ensure that members receive timely, accurate information about decisions affecting the club, its facilities, and its future.
   Our Shared ResponsibilityThe Chilliwack Alano Club represents years of community effort, service, and support for people navigating recovery. Its future should be guided by transparency, fairness, accountability, and respect for the people who depend on it.

We ask the current board, club membership, community leaders, and relevant authorities to work constructively toward resolving governance concerns and protecting this important community resource.

Signing this petition demonstrates support for the continued operation of the Chilliwack Alano Club’s kitchen, transparent governance, and the fair treatment of members under the club’s valid governing documents and applicable law.

Together, we can help preserve the heart of the Chilliwack Alano Club and protect the community it serves for generations to come.