About SIR and Branch 172

Short History

SIR (Sons in Retirement) was founded in 1958 and incorporated under the laws of California governing non-profit mutual benefit corporations in 1959, as a tax exempt corporation for retired men. Branches were incorporated under that law until 1991.

SIR, Branch 172 started with a group of Twain Harte men in 1993 and was incorporated in 1994.  Meetings occurred in and around Twain Harte (e.g., Twain Harte Golf Club, Kelly’s Kitchen, Moose Lodge) until 2007 when the meetings moved to the Sonora Elks Lodge.  The meetings returned to the Twain Harte Golf Club in 2023 then to the Moose Lodge in 2024.  Branch 172 is known for its activities and special events (e.g., Ladies Picnic and Christmas Party).

In 2019 ‘Sons in Retirement’ was changed to ‘SIR’ to reflect that all men, retired or not, were eligible for membership and its Logo and banner were changed from ‘Sons in Retirement’ to ‘SIR- Social Activities For Men’. This was done to emphasize that the organization focuses on activities for men in all areas with many being coed so member’s spouse/partner can be involved in SIR also (SIR Manual, Appendix B).

In 2024 the following changes were made to the organization: Big Sir is now President, Little Sir is now Vice-President.

Here is a more thorough history of our Branch.

SIR Mission and Principles

The guiding principles of our Bylaws, Policies and Procedures shall be governed by the Mission of SIR, and applied with common sense. The Mission of SIR is to enrich the lives of our members through fun activities and events while making friends for life (SIR Manual, Policy 1. General Principles).

As a SIR member, we count on you to work toward achieving SIR’s Member Expectations of being a friendly sociable guy, participating in our activities, luncheons and events, volunteering when asked (as your interests and capabilities will allow) and bringing guests to perpetuate and enhance the diversity of our branch. (SIR Manual, Policy 22A).

SIR policies, procedures, bylaws, and supporting practices are built upon the principle that trust, mutual respect, and dignity are fundamental beliefs between all members of our organization. SIR does not and shall not discriminate against any member, guest, or prospective member of our organization on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, age or disability. SIR shall comply with all applicable national, state and local statutes pertaining to nondiscrimination. In furtherance of these commitments, it has and will continue to be a fundamental policy to update and take action-oriented steps to implement our policy (SIR Manual, Policy 2. General Principles).