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Report

DCASA are wanting to change from a voluntary association to a NPC and become a Public Benefit Organisation so they can apply to SARS and other organisations for funding and additional benefits.

Around 50 attendees joined the quick and upbeat online meeting to cast votes for the proposed change.

Why?

There are several benefits to the proposed changes, including improved governance and accountability and building potential donor confidence.

There are other tax benefits (e.g. donors will be able to get tax benefits) that could open up due to the change as well.

There are also potential additional funding opportunities that could be pursued, for example, for training of members, perhaps through the banks and SETAs.

No Big Day to Day Changes

Members will not really notice any of the effects in terms of what is done day to day in the association.

There will be no change to the association’s objectives and member focus. Primarily, it will involve some document changes in the background and a few additional accounting steps.

After a short presentation, members got to vote (once the quorum was established) on the following:

1) Incorporation as an NPC

2) Authority for NEC to complete registration

3) Application to SARS for PBO status

4) Minor administrative amendments

5) That the changes would be effective immediately

The President, Mr Casper le Grange, then opened the floor to some questions from members just to ensure everyone was clear on the proposal.

There were a few questions (e.g. about the additional costs on accounting set up and setting up as a company now) and answers. It was made clear that the changes should not result in any extra costs to members.

Members then got to vote.

The results will be shared once compiled, but it is very strongly expected that the resolutions will pass without any hiccups.