MEMBERSHIP
Membership in Aya Community Land Trust is open to those dedicated to creating social change through stewardship of land and housing.
Aya Community Land Trust is a membership organization dedicated to equitable homeownership and community-centered development. Our membership is designed to encourage diverse engagement and active participation in the mission of Aya Community Land Trust. Below is an outline of our membership categories, including voting and non-voting types.
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Information about membership is below. If you would like to talk with a staff or board member about membership, you can email us at aya.landtrust@gmail.com
Voting Membership Categories
Voting members have a voice in key decisions affecting Aya Community Land Trust and can vote on matters as specified in our Bylaws.
1. Lessee Representatives
This category is for individuals who lease land from Aya Community Land Trust as part of our homeownership program.
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Eligibility: During the start-up phase of Aya, when there are no homes in trust, these members will be “lessee eligible” - meaning those who qualify by virtue of their income being evaluated as less than 80% of area median income and who currently live in or have been displaced from the Hilltop. After Aya has homes in trust, this membership will become those who are current homeowners on Aya CLT land. These members are approved by the Board.
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Responsibilities: Lessee Representatives are encouraged to attend meetings, participate in discussions, and vote on key issues affecting land use and homeownership policies.
2. General Public Members
Members from the broader community interested in supporting Aya Community Land Trust’s mission can join as General Public Members. This category ensures that the perspectives of the broader community are represented in Aya’s governance.
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Eligibility: Open to all individuals who have their primary residence in Pierce County, who support the mission and vision of Aya Community Land Trust and are approved by the Board.
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Responsibilities: General Public Members may attend meetings, vote on certain organizational matters, and contribute to the strategic direction of the organization.
3. Committee Members
Committee Members are individuals actively participating in one of Aya’s official committees, such as finance, governance, or events. This category is ideal for members who want to engage deeply in specific areas of the organization.
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Eligibility: Open to those who have their primary residence in Pierce County, and have been selected to serve on a committee following an application or nomination process, and are approved by the Board.
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Responsibilities: Committee Members are expected to attend committee meetings regularly, contribute to projects, and help implement key initiatives. They also have voting rights on issues presented to the membership.
Dues
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Members have the option to contribute $25 membership fee or perform 3 hours of volunteer service with Aya each year.
Non-Voting Supporting Membership Categories
Non-voting members are supporters who wish to contribute to Aya Community Land Trust’s mission but do not hold voting privileges. This allows a broader base of supporters to engage without the responsibilities of voting.
1. Individual Supporters
Individuals who align with Aya’s mission but do not wish to be involved in voting matters can join as Individual Supporters. This category provides a way for anyone to support the organization’s work and be part of the broader mission.
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Eligibility: Open to anyone interested in supporting Aya Community Land Trust, whose membership application is approved by the Board.
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Benefits: Individual Supporters receive newsletters, event invitations, and opportunities for involvement in educational or volunteer activities.
Dues​
Members have the option to contribute $25 membership fee or perform 3 hours of volunteer service with Aya each year.
MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION PROCEDURES
1. Informational Meeting Attendance
Prospective members must attend an informational meeting hosted by Aya Community Land Trust. These sessions offer insight into our mission, programs, and membership structure, and allow for questions and engagement with existing members and leadership.
• Meeting Schedule: Information sessions are held quarterly. Please visit our website or contact our office for upcoming dates.
• Registration: Pre-registration is required to attend. Register here
2. Application Submission
Following the informational meeting, attendees will receive an application form. Prospective members should complete and submit this form, which includes sections for personal information, interest in Aya Community Land Trust, and alignment with our mission and goals.
• Deadline: Applications are due within 30 days of the informational meeting.
• Submission Method: Completed applications can be submitted via email or delivered to Aya Community Land Trust’s office.
3. Board Review and Approval
Upon submission, all applications undergo a review process by Aya Community Land Trust’s Board of Directors. The Board considers each applicant’s alignment with our mission and commitment to participation in the organization.
• Approval Notification: Applicants will be notified of the Board’s decision within 60 days of submission.
• Membership Onboarding: Approved members will be invited to an onboarding session that includes an orientation to Aya Community Land Trust’s programs, committees, and volunteer opportunities.
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4. Membership Renewal and Engagement
Once accepted, members are encouraged to remain active by participating in meetings, events, and volunteer opportunities.
Annual renewal reminders will be sent to ensure ongoing engagement and commitment.