The end of an organization?

[Mr. Bloom]

However, are there ramifications of operating outside of the bylaws?

Yes!!! If it's a non profit, the IRS is VERY focused now on governance issues - particularly adherence to areas relating to conflicts of interest for board members and volunteers.

As to governance issues relating to "control", that's a tougher issue...but record keeping and notice to members becomes key. I believe there must legally be at least one "annual meeting" (if incorporated?), but the advance notice to members and quorum requirements are probably set in the bylaws.

As for the money, if the thing is dying, I think it's an option to simply take remaining cash and give it for a purpose allowed in the bylaws.

Don't let this drag you down. It's ok to care, but please be careful not to get sucked into a vortex...For $2,000, I'd just let it die a quiet death and let the treasurer, whom you trust, do the right thing.