Welcome to the Handbook
This handbook is the operational reference for everyone who volunteers with an ACC section — whether you're a section chair, a trip leader, a financial coordinator, or a new executive member finding your footing.
It exists because the knowledge needed to run a section well has historically lived in email threads, outgoing chairs' hard drives, and institutional memory. This is the attempt to change that.
What's in here
The handbook is organized into seven sections:
- Getting Started — orientation for new volunteers, key contacts, and your first steps in a new role
- Running Trips — everything from planning and posting a trip to avalanche safety, the Minors Policy, and insurance coverage
- Governance — AGM requirements, bylaws, and financial reporting obligations
- Communications — ACC brand guidelines, email templates, and how to work with ACC National
- Volunteer Benefits — clubhouse and hut booking discounts, and the Section Pro Deals program
- Section Forum — annual workshop summaries and post-forum resources
- Resources — templates, forms, and useful links
Who it's for
This handbook is written for all section volunteers — not just section chairs. If you lead trips, sit on the section executive, coordinate events, or are just getting started, there's something here for you.
How to use it
Use the sidebar to navigate by topic, or use the search bar (the magnifying glass icon at the top right) to find something specific. On longer articles, the On this page panel on the right shows you the headings so you can jump to the section you need.
Articles marked In progress are being authored. If you need guidance on a topic that isn't covered yet, contact the ACC Office directly.
:::info A living document This handbook is updated as policies, programs, and best practices evolve. Check the Changelog to see what's been added or revised recently. :::
Questions or feedback
If something is missing, out of date, or unclear — let us know. Reach out to ACC National and we'll get it updated.