On the deed or not on the deed....that is the question

Here's my question:
Can an individual participate in hoa discussion if not on the deed of the home? In this particulare situation we have a couple that owns a home, not legally married, although they have children together and have been living together for many, many years. Both are wonderful people and care about our community. I understand that the homeowner who's name is on the deed, is the only one who can vote, but can the other who is not, at least participate in dicussion?

Mindy, it is up to the Chair as to whom is acknowledged and given the opportunity to speak.

It would be in everyone's best interest not to designate two "classes" of people---those who's names are on the deed and those who's names are not. ANYONE who is a resident of your association should be allowed to speak. If they take the time to show up at a meeting it already shows that they are interested in their home and community. It's not the place of the Board to scrutinize why a "couple" has only one name on their deed. Even married couples do this at times, for personal and financial reasons. No one wants to feel that their opinion about their own home is not worthwhile.

Check your HOA docs. Ours says that if the owner gives written authorization to the tenant, the tenant may represent the interest of the owner, attend the meetings and participate on behalf of the owner.

I would treat this situation like any married couple. They are considered "one" no matter who's name is on the deed. That's just being nick-picky to some degree. I appreciated the input from even children. Their name isn't on the deed as well.
What happens in a HOA is supposed to represent the household of the homeowner. The household of the owner may be single, significant other, or family. Whoever lives in that household should have a say on how they want their household to particpate in the HOA. That may be they want to be part of the neighborhood or trash up the place.
I will leave out Renters and Roommates, based on the fact that money is usually exchanged in that situation. Family, single owner, or live-ins, the situation is usually "love" based. That should translate that anyone from that household has an invested interest overall that supercedes monetary items/values. Meaning they have a real interest in their community and the HOA. Their opinion should be heard.