Private Organizations
Private organizations (POs) are self-sustaining special interest groups that operate on military installations with the written consent of the commander.
Small unofficial activities (like coffee funds, flower funds, sunshine funds, and other small operations) are generally not considered POs. However, if their current assets (which include cash, inventories, receivables, and investments) exceed a monthly average of $1,000 over a 3-month period, the activity/organization must become a PO, discontinue on-base operations, or reduce its current assets below the $1,000 threshold.
A PO must submit a written constitution, bylaws, or other similar documents that:
Address the nature, function, objectives, membership eligibility, and sources of income of the PO;
Provide certification indicating that PO members have been notified and understand their personal financial liability for obligations of the PO, as provided by law;
Describe the responsibilities of PO officers for asset accountability, liability satisfaction, and sound financial and operational management; and
Provide specific guidance on disposition of residual assets upon dissolution.
POs may not use the seals, logos, or insignia of the Department of Defense (DoD) or any DoD component, organizational unit, or DoD installation on organization letterhead, correspondence, titles, or in association with organization programs, locations, or activities.
POs must be self-sustaining, primarily through dues, contributions, service charges, fees, or special assessments of their members. Any fundraising activities must adhere to the requirements of the Joint Ethics Regulation.
POs and unofficial activities/organizations may not sell or serve alcoholic beverages.
POs must have liability insurance unless the installation commander waives the requirement.
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Participation in extremist organizations and activities by DoD personnel is inconsistent with the responsibilities of military service and policy.
Military personnel must not actively advocate supremacist, extremist or criminal gang doctrine, ideology or causes, including those that advance, encourage or advocate illegal discrimination based on race, creed, color, sex, religion, ethnicity or national origin; or those that advance, advocate or encourage the use of force, violence or criminal activity; or otherwise deprive individuals of their civil rights.
The Department of Defense requires certain military members and civilian employees to file annual financial disclosure forms to insure employees do not engage in official financial transactions or decision-making that, due to their private interests, present a conflict of interest.
In the United States, the constitutional tradition of a politically neutral military establishment under civilian control includes nonpartisanship by the military and the elimination of undue military influence on the political process.
Private organizations (POs) are self-sustaining special interest groups that operate on military installations with the written consent of the commander.
A Family Readiness Group (FRG) is an organization created to foster a climate of mutual support within the unit. FRG goals include supporting the military mission through support, outreach and information to family members.
FRG mission-essential activities are supported using a unit's appropriated funds.
Under federal law, the Joint Ethics Regulation and service regulations, members of the Department of Defense (DoD) shall not engage in any personal business or professional activity that presents a conflict between their private interests and the DoD public interest.
As a general rule, spouses and other family members of an authorized traveler may not accompany the military member or civilian employee on official business at government expense.
Spouses may travel at government expense in limited situations
Fundraising is the solicitation of funds from or sale of items to military and civilian personnel.
Before any group (to include squadron booster clubs, private organizations, unit advisory councils, etc.) engages in a fundraising activity, either on or off base, prior approval must be obtained from the installation commander or his designee.
DoD employees may not accept or solicit gifts from a prohibited source or given because of their official positions. A gift includes any item having a monetary value.
Government resources and property may only be used for authorized purposes.
With few exceptions, supporting non-federal entities (NFEs) -- even if the government is compensated or reimbursed -- is an improper use of funds and resources.
Although military members have the right, within established limits, to express their individuality through their appearance, the military services have defined what is and what is not acceptable.
Absent an adverse impact on military readiness, unit cohesion, or good order and discipline, commanders will accommodate individual expressions of sincerely held beliefs of military members.
“Unprofessional relationships” is a term used to describe personal interaction that results in or reasonably creates the appearance of favoritism, misuse of position or authority, or the abandonment of organizational goals for personal interests.
