Volunteer Board Member

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As the highest leadership body of the organization and to satisfy its fiduciary duties, the board is responsible for

• determining the mission and purposes of the organization
• selecting and evaluating the performance of the chief executive
• strategic and organizational planning
• ensuring strong fiduciary oversight and financial management
• fundraising and resource development
• approving and monitoring the organization’s programs and services
• enhancing the organization’s public image
• assessing its own performance as the governing body of the organization

Each individual board member is expected to

• know the organization’s mission, policies, programs, and needs
• faithfully read and understand the organization’s financial statements
• serve as active advocates and ambassadors for the organization and fully engage in identifying and securing the financial resources and partnerships necessary for the organization to advance its mission
• leverage connections, networks, and resources to develop collective action to fully achieve the organization’s mission
• give a meaningful personal financial donation
• help identify personal connections that can benefit the organization’s fundraising and reputational standing, and can influence public policy
• prepare for, attend, and conscientiously participate in board meetings
• participate fully in one or more committees

• follow the organization’s bylaws, policies, and board resolutions
• sign an annual conflict-of-interest disclosure and update it during the year if necessary, as well as disclose potential conflicts before meetings and actual conflicts during meetings
• maintain confidentiality about all internal matters of the organization