Private Organizations

Non-Federal Entity
Private Organizations are special interest groups set up by people acting exclusively outside the scope of any official capacity as officers, employees, or agents of the federal government. POs are not a federal entity and are not to be treated as such.

Self-Sustaining
POs are self-sustaining through dues, donations, and fundraising. POs are prohibited from receiving any financial assistance from a Non-Appropriated Fund Instrumentality (NAFI), and are not entitled to the sovereign immunities and privileges enjoyed by NAFIs or the Air Force.

Unofficial Activity vs. Private Organization
When an unofficial activity/organization’s current monthly 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.

The Installation Commander authorizes the establishment and operation of all POs, when determined that the organization will make a positive contribution to the lives of base personnel.

For more information, AFI 34-223, Private Organization Program, is the governing policy for POs and contains guidance on their operation.