Benefits

• 5 Representatives
• Access to the New Diocesan Directors Institute (NDDI) 
• Waiver of licensing fees for NFCYM programs (First Things, YOTM, Encountering Christ, Partnering with Parents, Accompaniment Project 
• Vote on all NFCYM business 
• Early access to booking NFCYM events/programming 
• Discounts to NFCYM events/programming 
• NCYC complimentary registration 
• Professional training, resourcing, and support 
• Access to digital resources 
• Local and national support 
• Regular communications from NFCYM 
• The ability to network with peers and other youth-serving agencies 
• Opportunity to engage in the work of the NFCYM 

CRITERIA FOR MEMBERSHIP 

A (Arch)Diocese in the United States may become a member by paying the organizational dues and filling out a Membership Commitment Form. Each representative for a Diocesan Membership shall: 

• Be employed by or designated by the Bishop or his designee 
• Be in compliance with the safe environment/youth protection standards of the Catholic Church in the United States 
• Eligible to serve with young people. 
• Sign the NFCYM Code of Ethics for Youth Ministry Leaders 
• Complete a Membership Commitment Form. 

PRIVILEGES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

Each diocese shall have one (1) vote on all matters before the membership. The vote of each diocesan member is determined through consensus among the five (5) representatives of the diocese/eparchy.  Any diocesan representatives in excess of 5 designated representatives may affiliate with NFCYM as an Associate Member. 

Additionally, by virtue of membership, each diocese that is a member shall have the following privileges and responsibilities: 

• May identify up to five (5) designated representatives* (“representatives”), one of whom will be considered the Primary Diocesan Contact; 
• To participate in and serve as members of and leaders for the project teams, ministry networks, and other activities, including the annual membership meeting; 
• To participate in the annual membership meeting and to address the membership while in general session at the annual membership meeting on all matters before the membership; and 
• To receive NFCYM mailings and discounts.

*A diocese may change its representation during the year when the need arises, with the official diocesan representative sending written notice to the Executive Director. 

EXPECTATIONS 

• Agree with and advocate for the mission, vision, and values of the NFCYM within their diocese; 
• To actively participate in the work of their USCCB-designated region; 
• To attend and participate at the annual membership meeting, as able; 
• To share gifts and talents by actively participating in the work/projects of the NFCYM; 
• To promote and support the programs, services, and publications of the NFCYM within their diocese. 

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE OFFICIAL REPRESENTATIVE 

• Assist the (arch)bishop in designating four (4) additional members within their diocese/eparchy. 
• Submit member representative names annually. 
• Facilitate a consensus process for voting. 
• Ensure the payment of annual dues. 

RENEWAL PROCESS 

• The annual renewal of diocesan members will take place from June 1 to July 30 
• By June 1, the NFCYM sends a letter to all diocesan members requesting their annual dues and statement of renewal; 
• Reminder notices are sent as needed on June 1 and July 1.  

MEMBERSHIP DUES STRUCTURE 

The annual membership dues for each diocese shall be based on the Catholic population in the diocese or eparchy as listed in the current Official Catholic Directory, multiplied by a rate established by the board from time to time.  Annual membership dues are due by July 31. There is a half-price prorated option for those dioceses wishing to join after January 31. The cut-off for eligibility for discounted rates for conferences/services, i.e., NCYC, is July 31 of each year. 

Special Categories 

The annual fee can be waived due to financial hardship, with the request submitted in writing to the executive director of the NFCYM.