Get to know the responsibilities of joining a board
Perhaps you’re a longtime supporter of a favored community organization and are interested in taking your involvement to the next level by joining its board of directors. Or maybe you’ve already been approached to join but aren’t sure what will be expected of you in terms of time, money and other commitments. As with many great opportunities, serving on a board means taking on some responsibility too. Here’s what to think about when getting started.
YOUR TIME
Most boards hold seven meetings a year, at about two to four hours each, according to BoardSource. On average, members serve two terms of three years each, and in general the position is unpaid.
YOUR REPUTATION
If you have a direct financial relationship to the nonprofit (such as being its landlord or legal counsel), serving can pose a conflict of interest risk. Board members must put the interests of the organization before their own.
YOUR FINANCIAL SUPPORT
According to BoardSource, it’s recommended for boards to set a range or a minimum amount for each member to give, often generously. Board members may also be expected to provide names of potential donors and to meet with them to procure donations.
YOUR EXPERTISE
Responsibilities can include fundraising, advocacy, community-building and outreach. Will your skill set help the institution raise funds or operate more efficiently?
WORTH CONSIDERING
IS IT A FIT?
Serving on a board should be a positive experience. Make sure your values align with those of the organization, as well as those of existing board members.
ABOVE BOARD
You’ll officially be a steward of the organization’s resources and assets. If a nonprofit doesn’t pay enough in payroll taxes for its employees, for example, the IRS can hold the board negligent. To guard against this risk, ask about the group’s liability insurance and possibly secure your own as well.
POTENTIAL PERKS
Serving on a board comes with benefits. You can gain greater leverage to support a mission you care about, network with professionals and like-minded individuals and establish yourself as a leader in your community or field.
No matter how you choose to give, make sure the time, financial commitment and benefits are a match for your current bandwidth.
NEXT STEPS
Serving on a board can be a great way to contribute to your favorite cause – but make sure the time and investment work for you. Here are some ideas to get started.
- Research organizations you believe in or already donate to. Is there an opportunity to get more involved?
- Tap into your advisor as a sounding board. As members of the community, they might have some good insight to share.
- Take a look at the amount of time you might have to share with an organization. Would it be better to donate in some other way?
Sources: boardnetUSA.com; forbes.com; boardeffect.com; thebalance.com; BoardSource, “Leading with Intent”
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