Organization

The American Historical Society of Germans from Russia (AHSGR) functions as a non-profit corporation under the supervision of a Board of Directors. A separate non-profit corporation, the International Foundation of the American Historical Society of Germans from Russia (IFAHSGR) functions under the supervision of a Board of Trustees. While the Board of Directors of AHSGR and the Board of Trustees of IFAHSGR are independent of each other, they are closely allied and work cooperatively. The Board of Directors is responsible for setting the tone and direction for the overall operation of the Society and management of its resources. The Trustees are responsible for fund-raising designed to develop a pool of resources that will help ensure the future of AHSGR. 

Each board has adopted a mission statement, which guides their actions. Members of each board are elected from the districts comprising the Society and the Foundation. Thus, they serve as representatives of their constituents. Their duties require that they become acquainted with the affairs of their corporation by reading, attending meetings and interacting with others on the board or in the membership. Board responsibilities are carried out primarily through action of several committees. Business meetings are held each Spring, Fall, and at the annual convention. Board members are expected to attend at least two meetings per year. Both boards use an executive committee to conduct affairs as necessary between business meetings. Directors and Trustees are expected to support their boards and the organization by giving of their time, energy, and money. There are no financial incentives and members of the boards pay their own expenses, but there is great satisfaction in helping to ensure the long-term viability of AHSGR. One third of the board members are elected each year and any AHSGR member interested in serving on either board is invited to contact Headquarters. 

The boards set policy, establish overall plans, approve budgets and guide the economic health and continuity of the respective corporations.