During National Service Week 2022, members of the sorority are sharing their experiences as a community volunteer and the impact that volunteering has had on their lives.
Omega Phi Alpha inspired a love of service and dedication to my community and the causes that are near and dear to me. Since I joined OPhiA at Kennesaw State University in 2006, I’ve volunteered in various communities in many capacities such as:
- Helping teacher friends organize their classroom or read to their students
- For the Omega Phi Alpha national team
- Helping people impacted by natural disasters such as tornadoes and floods
- Knocking doors to register voters and get out the vote
However, some of the most meaningful and memorable volunteer experiences have been while serving on a Board of Directors of organizations that I’m passionate about. I’ve heard from many members that they didn’t know about organizational Board of Directors and how to join them and from others that they are intimidated or don’t feel like they have anything to contribute.
Everyone has something to contribute.
Some of the most needed skills for organizations are:
- Strategic planning and execution
- Accounting and other finance expertise
- Project management
- Human Resources
- Marketing
- Fundraising
Even other skills such as graphic design, web design, event planning, and operating systems knowledge are very valuable to organizations.
How do I know what Board of Directors exist?
The best way to find out about open Board positions is by following organizations that you love! All nonprofit organizations have a governing body usually in the form of a Board of Directors. Currently, I serve on the Board of Directors of two local organizations (MUD Project and Big Sky SHRM). I found out about each of the opportunities via calls for new Board members on social media and in their newsletter. I simply followed the instructions to submit my interest and was contacted by the Executive Director.
How do I find out more if I don’t see any openings?
Usually, you can reach out to the Executive Director or the Board President at a nonprofit and express your interest. Many times when there is an open position, they will put out a call for applicants. Applying for a board position is the best way to get your foot in the door.
What is the commitment level?
It all depends on the organization! Typically, terms on nonprofit boards range from 1-3 years. There is often an executive team of officers and then members at large. A lot of times, members can join committees and serve as committee chairs without joining the executive team. Some organizations have “working boards” which means that the board members commit more time to advancing the goals of the organization. Other organizations have “strategic boards” where the board members set the strategic vision and goals of the organization and monitor that plan but staff does most of the day to day work. Depending on the type of board you are joining, you can expect to volunteer at least 2 hours a month.
I’m not sure if I’m qualified but I’m really interested!
Just do it! In my experience, smaller nonprofit organizations have more learning opportunities and are a great place to start.
Do you serve on the Board of Directors of a nonprofit organization? We’d love to hear more about your experience! Share with us on social media this week!
Alyssa Bernhardt
Managing Director
Alpha Zeta Chapter Alum