Board Member

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This description is to help solidify your invitation to join our Board of Directors. Please read this description carefully. It will help you understand Unique Union, Inc. and your ability to impact the community. We thank you in advance for your consideration!

Unique Union, Inc’s Board will govern the overall execution of the organization’s mission. Principally, the Board manages organizational finances and sets long-term priorities for programs, including the development of our 3 main offerings: our flagship program-- the #SelfCareSunday Craft Workshop, the Young #SelfCare in the Summer Camp, and Adult Mental Health First Aid through the National Council of Mental Wellbeing. Additionally, the Board advises the Executive Director, who is responsible for the day-to-day management of the organization. Overall, the members of the Board contribute the educational, management, legal, and financial skills needed to ensure long-term organizational stability and ensure year-to-year excellence for Unique Union, Inc.’s mission.

Unique Union, Inc. (UU, Inc.) is currently governed by 1 board member, with the goal of increasing to 5 voting members who will actively support the mission, strategic direction, and branding of the organization as we maintain 501(c)3 status with the IRS. The Board of Directors will be comprised of members with varying levels of professional expertise. As needed, UU, Inc. will elect new Board Members to ensure the expansion of knowledge and expertise in the areas of artistic branding, marketing, community building, human services, program and curriculum development, social networking, fundraising, finance and nonprofit strategic planning. Terms begin at 2 years with the opportunity to extend membership terms based on active status. All Members must be living in the Washington, DC area.

Board Member responsibilities include regular attendance to Board meetings via Zoom and active electronic conversations as part of Board communication. Additional meetings may be added to the existing schedule. Board members also hold fiduciary responsibility for the management of organizational capital and ensuring appropriate filings with federal, state, and local authorities consistent with the organization’s status as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The attendance policy allows for removal from the Board if three consecutive meetings are missed without notice.

The purpose of this role is to act as a voting Member of the Board with full authority and responsibility to develop policies, procedures, and regulations for the operation of Unique Union, Inc.; to monitor the organization's financial health, programs, and overall performance; and to provide the CEO with the resources to meet the needs of those the nonprofit serves.

THE FULL BOARD'S RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Enforce the organization's mission and purpose.
• Support the CEO and advance her performance.
• Ensure effective organizational planning.
• Ensure adequate resources through active fundraising.
• Determine and strengthen the organization's programs and services.
• Enhance the organization's public standing.
• Ensure legal and ethical integrity and maintain accountability.
• Recruit and orient new Board Members and assess Board performance.
• Maintain appropriate confidentiality of the Board’s work.
• Suggest Agenda items for Board and Committee meetings, to ensure significant policy-related matters are addressed.

EACH INDIVIDUAL BOARD MEMBER'S DUTIES:

• Participate in all Board Meetings, including Board Retreats (if/when scheduled).
• Become knowledgeable about Unique Union, Inc. by following trends in the fields of the Arts, mental health, and building community.
• Come to Board Meetings well prepared and well informed about issues on the Agenda.
• Contribute to meetings by respectfully expressing your point of view.
• Consider others' points of view, make constructive suggestions, help the Board make decisions that benefit those the nonprofit serves, and support the majority’s decisions.
• Serve on one Committee (when established).
• Represent the nonprofit to individuals, the public, and other organizations.
• Support the nonprofit with our Get or Give Policy, through a minimal financial contribution of $75/per month or $900/per year that can be either raised or given to the organization through a tax-deductible gift.
• Assist the Development Committee (when established) and staff by implementing fundraising strategies through personal influence with others (corporations, foundations, individuals, etc.).
• Assume Board leadership roles, when asked.
• Keep the CEO informed about any concerns and issues in Washington, DC area communities.
• Bring a sense of humor to the Board’s deliberations.

This is an exceptional opportunity to be part of a dynamic group of professionals who are passionate about improving the well-being of artists and creatives in our community. Being a part of the Board will provide a unique and challenging experience by engaging in the development of the organization. Moreover, UU, Inc. is committed to making your experience as a Board Member fulfilling, empowering, and rewarding. The Board will provide a platform for meetings, an annual retreat, and social networking to encourage peer support. You’re known by the company you keep! Each Board Member, their affiliated company, and website link be listed on our website on the "About Us" page. This will help bring added credibility to our Programs as well as increase your visibility as an Arts and Mental Health advocate.

Board positions require time and energy commitments that should not be underestimated. Candidates are urged to consider personal priorities for the next 2 years, as well as the ways to contribute to the development of the organization.

Resources available to prospective members:

- Organizational Documents: Bylaws, Impact Reports, and others upon request

- Program Overview & Calendar of Events

- Email or call the Executive Director with questions outside of normal business hours

The process to Join us as Board Member:

1. Attend an interview with the Executive Director
2. Sign a Letter of Agreement consenting to the above.
3. Complete required forms.
4. Submit your first contribution.