Bylaws

Article I – Name and Mission

1.1 Name: The name of the organization shall be Global Association of Montessori Education and Sport (GAMES).

1.2 Mission: GAMES exists to promote peace, sustainability, and cultural understanding through sport, education, and international collaboration rooted in Montessori principles.

1.3 Vision: A global community of young people empowered to build a peaceful and inclusive future through play, movement, and mutual respect.

Article II – Legal Status and Offices

2.1 GAMES is a nonprofit organization governed by these bylaws.

2.2 The principal office shall be located in the Netherlands. Regional offices or branches may be established in other countries to support international activities.

2.3 GAMES may be incorporated in other jurisdictions as required to fulfill its mission.

Article III – Governance Structure

3.1 GAMES shall be governed by a Board of Directors consisting of at least three (3) members: President, Vice President/Treasurer, and Secretary.

3.2 The Board may appoint additional members, including regional coordinators and advisors.

3.3 The Board is responsible for strategic planning, legal compliance, and financial oversight.

3.4 Board meetings shall be held at least twice per year. Decisions require a majority vote.

Article IV – Roles and Responsibilities

4.1 The President leads the organization, represents GAMES externally, and oversees strategic direction.

4.2 The Vice President/Treasurer manages financial records, fundraising, and budget reporting.

4.3 The Secretary maintains official records, documents board decisions, and coordinates internal communication.

4.4 All Board members support program development, partnerships, and global outreach.

Article V – Membership and Participation

5.1 Membership is open to schools, educators, students, and organizations who share the mission of GAMES.

5.2 Members are expected to follow Montessori values and principles of inclusion, peace, and sustainability.

5.3 Members may participate in events, forums, and working groups organized under the GAMES umbrella.

Article VI – Programs and Activities

6.1 GAMES organizes international events such as the Global Montessori Games and Sustainable Development Games.

6.2 Programs are designed to foster cross-cultural exchange, youth empowerment, and collaboration on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

6.3 All programs shall align with Montessori philosophy and GAMES’ mission.

Article VII – Finances and Accountability

7.1 GAMES shall operate as a nonprofit and reinvest all funds into its mission.

7.2 The Treasurer shall keep accurate financial records and provide annual reports.

7.3 An independent accountant shall review the financial records annually.

7.4 GAMES may receive donations, sponsorships, grants, and membership fees.

Article VIII – Amendments

8.1 These bylaws may be amended by a two-thirds vote of the Board of Directors.

8.2 Proposed amendments must be submitted in writing at least 30 days prior to the vote.

Article IX – Dissolution

9.1 In the event of dissolution, any remaining assets shall be distributed to a nonprofit organization with a similar mission, as determined by the Board.