Making a Difference - The Value of Joining a Board of Directors
In uncertain times, when many pressing concerns seem overlooked or unresolved, it’s easy to feel powerless. But one meaningful way to make an impact is closer than you might think.
Local nonprofits are often at the front lines of addressing the very issues you care about. Their missions may very well reflect your own sense of purpose. Many of these organizations are actively seeking passionate, committed individuals to join their Board of Directors or serve on Board Committees.
Being part of a Board can offer a powerful sense of purpose and provide an opportunity to contribute, when today, you may feel as if you can’t make a difference. It’s an opportunity to help shape strategy, amplify community voices, and contribute your expertise. More and more Boards are also striving to be diverse and inclusive to ensure that lived experience, fresh perspectives, and equity are at the heart of decision-making.
Why Join a Board?
Serving on a Board isn’t just a generous donation of your time—it’s a chance to learn, lead, and grow. Board members help set direction, ensure financial accountability, and connect the organization to the wider community. It’s a front-row seat to social impact, and your voice and actions really can shape change and fill in the gaps on issues that you care about. Some organizations include their Board in meaningful activities such as marketing, advocacy, event planning, and more. These activities can support understaffed nonprofits and provide you with an opportunity to expand your own skills or use skills not needed in your current career.
Whether you’re early in your career or a seasoned pro, Board service expands your network, deepens your understanding of community issues, and builds leadership skills. Most importantly, it puts your values into action.
Breaking the Myths
Many people assume you have to be wealthy or have years of experience to join a Board. While there are some Boards with large financial giving expectations, that is rare. What most Boards are looking for are people with a genuine commitment, a willingness to learn and contribute, and a diversity of perspectives. Your lived experience, professional perspective, and ability to ask insightful questions may be exactly what’s needed.
Finding the Right Board Opportunity
Start by reflecting on the issues that matter most to you, such as housing, education, health equity, environmental justice, disabilities, substance use disorders, or the arts. Chances are, there's a nonprofit in your area doing meaningful work in that space. Search online, check local directories, or ask peers involved in community work.
You don’t have to wait for an invitation. Reach out directly. Many nonprofits welcome interest from community members and often list Board openings on their websites or platforms like BoardStrong, Idealist, or VolunteerMatch.
Making Your Move
Once you identify an organization, reflect on their mission and vision, attend an event, sign up for their newsletter, or even volunteer first. Some Boards provide opportunities to join Committees of the Board which are a great way to contribute before committing to the Board itself.
When you're ready, express your interest in board service. Share why you care, what skills or perspectives you bring, and your openness to learning. It’s not about having all the answers, but showing up with intention.
Choose Wisely
Before you agree to be on a Board, ask questions to ensure that you align with their mission and that you can meet their expectations.
Sample questions to ask:
What is the strategic plan of the organization?
What are the current challenges facing the organization?
How does the organization measure its success?
What are the specific expectations of Board members in terms of time, financial contributions, and participation?
Are there committees, and is service on them expected?
How often does the Board meet, and what’s the typical format?
What are the term limits for the Board?
How does the Board ensure diversity, equity, and inclusion in its leadership and decision-making?
What is the relationship between the Board and the Executive Director?
Is there an onboarding or orientation process for new Board members?
Is there mentorship or support for first-time Board members?
Are professional development or training opportunities provided?
Questions to ask yourself:
Does this mission genuinely inspire me?
Do I have the capacity to commit the time and energy needed?
Will I be able to contribute meaningfully and make the type of difference I want to make?
Final Thoughts: Your Seat at the Table
I appreciate how overwhelmed and concerned people are right now. In my experience, the best way to address those feelings is to do something. Doing something that will make a difference in your own community or for your own cause will help others and your own tired heart. Bring your voice, your values, and your lived experience to the table.
If you would like some personal recommendations in the Western New York area, please reach out. I am happy to help you and the nonprofits looking for help!
