AVLS Restructuring 2025
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Chapter 11 Subchapter V?
Chapter 11 Subchapter V is a streamlined financial restructuring process designed to help small businesses and organizations like AVLS address financial challenges while continuing operations without interruption. It allows us to reorganize debts, prioritize resources, and position ourselves for long-term success.
Why did AVLS decide to initiate this process?
AVLS, like many organizations, has faced financial challenges in today’s environment. After careful evaluation and consultation with experts, we determined that Chapter 11 Subchapter V is the most effective way to address these challenges and ensure we can continue serving our members and advancing our mission.
How did AVLS get in this situation?
AVLS’ challenges stem from a combination of factors, including increased operational costs, suboptimal long-term contractual obligations and governance gaps contributed to financial inefficiencies, limiting our ability to adapt swiftly to changing circumstances.
Despite our best efforts to manage these pressures, it became clear that a proactive financial restructuring through Chapter 11 Subchapter V would allow us to address these challenges effectively, protect our mission, and ensure we continue to provide value to our members and stakeholders. This decision reflects a commitment to long-term sustainability and the well-being of our community.
How does this impact AVLS members?
For members, it’s business as usual. Educational programs, research initiatives, advocacy efforts, and member benefits will continue without interruption. The restructuring allows us to refocus resources to provide even greater value to our members and deliver on our commitments to Great Expectations.
Will member fees change?
No, member fees will remain unchanged during this process. AVLS is committed to maintaining the value of membership while continuing to provide the programs, resources, and support our members rely on. The restructuring process is designed to strengthen our financial foundation without impacting membership costs.
Are AVLS events still happening?
Yes, educational events, including the Annual Congress and VLM Review Course, as well as research and advocacy initiatives, will proceed as scheduled. Our commitment to providing high-quality programming and advancing the field remains steadfast throughout this process.
Is the Foundation for Venous and Lymphatic Disease (FVLD) impacted by the AVLS filing?
No, the Foundation for Venous and Lymphatic Disease (FVLD) is not part of the AVLS Chapter 11 Subchapter V filing. FVLD remains a fully separate and independent entity, continuing its vital work to advance research and education in venous and lymphatic disease.
All funds granted by FVLD to AVLS are committed exclusively to supporting specifically identified educational, research, and advocacy initiatives undertaken by AVLS. These grants are carefully aligned with FVLD’s mission, AVLS’ strategic priorities, and Great Expectations.
How will this process impact AVLS’ sponsors and donors?
Sponsorships and donations remain critical to AVLS’ mission. All funds contributed by sponsors and donors will continue to directly support mission-focused programs—education, research, and advocacy initiatives—as intended. Importantly, sponsor and donor funds will not be applied to pay debt or fund overhead operations. The restructuring enhances our ability to allocate these resources efficiently and strategically, ensuring they drive meaningful impact in alignment with our mission.
What does this mean for AVLS’ financial future?
This restructuring is a proactive and strategic step to strengthen AVLS’ financial foundation. It allows us to address challenges now and emerge more resilient, ensuring we can continue delivering high-impact programs and serving our community for years to come.
Why should membership trust AVLS leadership?
AVLS leadership is deeply committed to transparency, accountability, and the long-term success of the organization. The decision to pursue financial restructuring was made after careful evaluation and consultation with experts, with the sole focus on protecting the Society's mission and serving its members effectively.
In recent months, leadership has taken significant steps to address governance gaps, strengthen financial oversight, and enhance operational efficiency. Regular updates, open communication, and commitment to a strategic plan for recovery reflect the leadership's dedication to earning and maintaining members' trust. By navigating this process with integrity and a member-first approach, we aim to emerge stronger and more resilient for the future.
What are the costs to the association?
The financial restructuring process under Chapter 11 Subchapter V does incur costs, including legal fees, administrative expenses, and other professional services required to navigate the process effectively. These costs are being carefully managed to minimize their impact on AVLS operations.
Where is the money coming from?
The funds for these costs are being drawn from existing operational resources and a legal fund generously supported by individual member contributions designated specifically for this purpose. AVLS is prioritizing mission-critical activities and optimizing resource allocation to ensure that member benefits, educational programs, and advocacy efforts remain fully supported throughout this process. Importantly, no funds from sponsors or donors are being used to cover restructuring expenses.
What is the timeline?
The Chapter 11 Subchapter V process is designed to be more streamlined than traditional restructuring procedures. While exact timelines can vary based on court proceedings and stakeholder input, AVLS anticipates the following general timeline:
- Initial Filing: Completed and approved in December 2024, to begin the restructuring process.
- Plan Development: AVLS will work closely with legal and financial advisors to develop a reorganization plan within 90 days of filing.
- Court Approval: The proposed plan will be submitted for court review and approval, typically within a few months of filing.
- Implementation: Upon court approval, AVLS will implement the reorganization plan, addressing debts and restructuring operations to ensure long-term stability. The entire process is expected to take 6–12 months. Regular updates will be provided to members and stakeholders throughout, ensuring transparency and engagement.
How can I stay informed about the restructuring process?
We are committed to transparency and will provide regular updates via email, our website, and during upcoming events. You can also contact us directly at [email protected] with any questions or concerns.
What role can I play in supporting AVLS during this time?
Your continued engagement is vital. Whether you’re a member, sponsor, donor, or partner, your involvement strengthens our ability to deliver programs and services. We encourage you to participate in upcoming events, share our mission with others, and stay connected as we navigate this process together.
Who can I contact for more information?
For additional questions, please reach out to us at [email protected] or call our office at +1 510-346-6800. We are here to address your concerns and provide further clarity.
Where can I find updates about this process?
We will post updates on our website at www.myavls.org, send them via email, and share details during our events. Please check back regularly for the latest information.
