Serving on the Board of Directors for a not-for-profit organization is a terrific way to give back to the community in which you live or work. Everyone has some talent to offer; it may be as a professional such as an accountant, as a sales person who has experience in marketing, or as a family member in a community who has a commitment to its future. What matters most is that the experience is rewarding to you personally which results in enthusiasm for the organization’s cause.
The most fulfilling volunteer experience will result from serving on the board of an organization whose mission you agree with and feel strongly about. As a Board Member, you will be a representative of the organization to the general public and should strive to enhance the organization’s reputation. You will also be expected to promote the mission of the organization and garner support for the organization. You will be expected to contribute financially to the organization to the extent your means allow and to participate in fundraising activities. Board Members should read and understand the organization’s by-laws as well as financial statements issued to them and be prepared to participate in the discussions during board meetings. As a board member, you assume a “duty of care” responsibility and therefore must understand and oversee financial matters, internal controls and the management of the organization. This responsibility should not be taken lightly.
The ultimate goal of serving on a board should be to leave the organization in a better position than when you joined the board.
Blog contributor: Tish Michelson
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