There are many reasons why an individual might wish to join a local NFP board. In addition to giving back through community service, serving on the board provides you with the opportunity to use your expertise to help advance your NFP’s mission and goals and improve their impact in the community. Serving as a member of the board also provides direct benefits to those who serve, as it is a great way to learn new skills as well as meet new people and make connections with those who share your interests.

How to Know if You are a Good Fit for a Specific NFP Board

When you are interested in serving as a volunteer board member, one of the most difficult things to determine before joining is whether or not you have the qualities that will make you a good fit for this NFP and board.

In order to ensure that they are a good fit for one another, there are a few questions prospects should ask themselves before they make a commitment to join a NFP board.

  • Do the NFP’s mission and goals interest me? Do I believe in this cause?
  • Am I willing to devote my time, talents and heart to advancing this cause?
  • Am I willing to act as a good advocate and introduce others to this NFP’s mission and goals?
  • Will my skills and expertise meaningfully increase this NFP’s impact?
  • Do I understand my role and responsibilities as a member of this NFP’s board and am I prepared and capable of fulfilling them?

Applying for a Position on an NFP Board

Once you’ve determined whether or not you would be a good fit for a specific board, there are a number of ways to increase your chances of being selected to serve on the board.

Make Direct Contact

If an NFP that you are interested in has an opening on the board, it’s okay to go ahead and make direct contact and apply. Even if a position isn’t open, it’s a good idea to make contact with the existing board leadership to express your interest in serving, and consider volunteering or helping the NFP out with its fundraising efforts.

Conduct an Online Search

Many NFPs use sites such as LinkedIn and Idealist to post their volunteer board opportunities, so don’t neglect online searches to help you find and connect with volunteer board opportunities.

Ask Around

If you are having difficulty locating a board opportunity that interests you, don’t forget to get in touch with your existing network of contacts and ask around.  Chances are great that one or more of your connections knows of a great board opportunity where you would be a great fit and asset to the nonprofit.

Be Flexible

Sometimes you may not be able to find a cause that interests you that has an opening on the board.  Consider offering your time to this NFPs Junior or Auxiliary Board, or look for other ways to support this NFP.

You might consider volunteering to use your expertise to assist with that nonprofit’s special projects or even a fundraising event or other volunteer opportunity. This way, you will have a chance to get to know the existing board members as well as other volunteers and staff, and perhaps increase your visibility for when a position goes become available.

Serving on a Volunteer Board has Challenges and Rewards

Joining an NFP board is certainly a worthwhile endeavour, and will help you to give back to your community and society as a whole. It is, however, a position that is at times both challenging and rewarding so care is needed when selecting an NFP. If you choose one that matches your passions and interests, you are more likely to remain motivated to put forth your best effort to assist the NFP, especially when your NFP is navigating difficult circumstances.