The Goal: Understand what Chapters are, why they matter for associations, and what capabilities they enable — before diving into setup and configuration.
Before You Begin:
- This is a conceptual overview article. No configuration steps are required before reading it.
- When you are ready to start setup, proceed to Create Chapters.
What Are Chapters?
For associations with chapters, it is valuable to manage the chapter structure, allow membership applications to be tied to a chapter, provide chapter-based public website content, and manage member communication at the chapter level — all providing increased relevance to your members.
The Chapters feature makes all of this possible. In GrowthZone, chapters are accessed by going to Contacts and clicking All Chapters in the left-hand rail.
Key Capabilities
- Chapter structure management — Create and configure chapters with names, descriptions, calendars, directories, lists/committees, and payment gateways.
- Membership application integration — Allow applicants to select a chapter when applying for membership online.
- Chapter-based website content — Display chapter-specific public content on your website.
- Chapter-level communication — Manage member communications at the chapter level for increased member relevance.
- Chapter admin access — Grant chapter owners limited back-office access to view their chapter's members and generate reports.
Common Pitfalls
- Chapters vs. Lists/Committees: Chapters are distinct from lists/committees, though each chapter can have an associated list/committee for communications. Do not use lists/committees as a substitute for chapters if chapter-based membership and billing are required.