There are so many volunteer, non-profit Boards. The neighborhood association has one. The schools have PTAs (or similar) and Foundation Boards. There are many, many organizations, both professional and personal interests, with volunteer boards. Why would you volunteer to serve on a board?

The negatives are clear. “I don’t have time.” “I don’t have the energy.” “I’m not a leader.” “Someone else will do it, they don’t need me.”

The positives, while not as clear, are stronger. It does not take a great deal of time. Everyone else on the board has the same issues. Engaging with others may energize you. It is empowering. You will learn on the job. This is probably one of the things that grabs me. I will learn more as I work a new job. And, doing this part-time job will help benefit others. Last, you are needed. You have experiences that I don’t and your voice on the board helps us grow together. Take the first step and offer to run for office.

This year, I raised my hand.

I am running for American Library Association’s Councilor-At-Large this month. (Voting is March 10-April 2, 2025.) I want to help my national organization and I bring experience with school libraries, public libraries as a member of the local branch’s foundation, and in collaboration with state librarians.

Yes, it is a little scary to put yourself out there. Yes, there will be a vote and I may not win. If I win, I will do my best to stay on top of the issues, help generate ideas or solutions, provide my viewpoint, and listen to others. That is the essential job of being on a non-profit board.

References:

Corporate Giving Network (Nov. 7, 2023). Why Business Professionals Should Serve on Nonprofit Boards. https://corporategn.com/why-business-professionals-should-serve-on-nonprofit-boards/

ProInspire. (2020). 3 Reasons Why Every Young Professional Should Serve on a Nonprofit Board. https://www.proinspire.org/3-reasons-why-every-young-professional-should-serve-on-a-nonprofit-board-2/