Young Professionals Learn the Value of Serving on Boards

In 2011, it is predicted that over 200,000 nonprofits will close their doors because of ever shrinking donations. In North Texas alone, 19,000 nonprofits will rely on 9% of the work force to generate $16.5 billion for their operations. For a young professional who might value a non-profit, is there any way you can impact the growing need for funds without writing a check?

This was the topic at a recent panel discussion hosted by the Dallas Regional Chamber Young Professionals, “How to be a Good Board Member”. The panelists include Wade Owens, Chairman of the Board for the Center for Non-Profit Management, Barbara McDermott, Executive Director / CEO of the Ronald McDonald House and Carrie Thomas, a board member from Mi Escuelita Preschool.

The usual way to help a non-profit is to volunteer. As the entire panel suggested, volunteers are critical because they provide vital work for short periods of time, and can provide much needed dollars on a wide range of projects.

There is, however, another way you can help a non-profit: by joining its board. Barbara McDermott from the Ronald McDonald House noted that committed board members are critical to not only raising funds, but also raising awareness in the community. Board members bring expertise from their professional careers and also have key contacts that can contribute to a nonprofit.

Recently the Ronald McDonald House experienced this first hand when they came up $100,000 short on funding for their new 60-bedroom Ronald McDonald House at 4707 Bengal Street. From the simple introduction of a Ronald McDonald House board member to a donor, the organization was able to secure the much needed $100,000. Barbara affirmed that while Young Professionals may be limited on generous giving, they can create opportunities for the organization through the contacts they know.

Young Professionals in attendance were curious to understand the functions of a good board member. Wade Owens explained that a good board member must be honest with the organization and themselves if service is not fulfilling expectations. Barbara McDermott pointed out nothing hurts a nonprofit more than a board member who is only serving out of obligation rather than passion. Carrie Thomas also described that a good board member must be willing to dedicate time to the organization. On average, Carrie works about 4-6 hours a month for the Mi Escuelita Board, and an additional hour per week reading with students at the school. Wade also added that a board may require significant donations from prospective members, either through corporate giving or personal contributions. Above all, boards are always looking for members who can bring innovation and energy to the organization.

Nonprofit organizations more than ever are turning to their volunteers to help lead the charge. As a Young Professional, volunteering and serving on a board can bring both professional and personal growth. Should you know of a nonprofit that you value, do some investigating and see how you can benefit them by volunteering and joining their board.

Written by Leslie Cunningham, YP Board Member

If you are interested in joining the Young Professionals, a group for emerging leaders ages 25-40, please contact Julie Tanner at 214-746-6741.