United Way of Southwest Michigan creates new Associate Board Member position for its Board of Directors
United Way is seeking applications from interested community members. Applications are due September 8.
“The purpose of this new associate board member position on our board is to help create leaders in our communities and to be a pipeline for filling board member seats when they open,” said Anna Murphy, President and CEO of United Way of Southwest Michigan. “This new position also has the added benefit of preparing people for other community board experiences.”
An Associate Board Member (ABM) is an individual who is passionate about their community and has the desire to be in a leadership role supporting impactful work. An ABM will volunteer time, energy, and talent to help further the mission of UWSM. ABMs will engage in specific action-based activities and leadership opportunities to support the board’s role in oversight, policy setting, support, and promoting the organization.
Responsibilities:
• Serve as advocates for the mission, work, and efforts of UWSM.
• Serve as an ambassador to recruit additional Associate Board Members and volunteers.
• Serve on committees and take on special assignments.
• Act as an ambassador for the organization when at events or whenever networking chances are available.
• Consider an annual financial gift to UWSM that reflects the priority of supporting the organization and its work.
• Attend all board meetings.
• Associate Board Members will contribute in all ways, with the exception of voting on issues.
Qualifications:
• Commitment of time and willingness to engage.
• Commitment to the communities served by United Way of Southwest Michigan(Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren Counties).
• Demonstrate accountability, integrity, credibility, and a passion for improving the lives of residents of Southwest Michigan.
• Skills and knowledge that will add to the dynamics and diverse perspectives of the board.
Board Terms/Participation:
• The term is one year. The Board Chair and the High Performing Board Committee has the authority to invite an Associate Board Member to a second year.
• At the end of one year, there may be an invitation to advance to the full board should a seat become empty; however, consideration for a regular board seat is not guaranteed.
Board Meeting Cadence:
• January, March, May, July, September, and November. (Board meetings may be moved from time to time).
• Third Thursday from 4-5:30 p.m.
• Committee meetings are held in opposite months of board meetings.
Process:
1. Application submitted.
2. Application reviewed by High Performing Board Committee.
3. If applicant is considered, they will be scheduled for a brief (10-15 minute) interview with High Performing Board Committee Chair and/or CEO.
4. Once an applicant is selected, they will be notified and set up for onboarding.
5. All applicants will be notified of yes & no decisions.
What’s in it for the Associate Board Member?
1. You have an opportunity to get involved, make a difference, and realize a great sense of meaning through the work.
2. You will build meaningful new relationships and expand your network.
3. You will gain new perspectives.
4. You will develop useful skills and gain strong board experience.
5. You will enhance your resume through your service and volunteerism.
6. UWSM will help a previous ABM get placed on another community board.
To apply, visit uwsm.org/meet-the-board. Applications are due September 8. Applicants will be notified about acceptance on November 30.
ABOUT UNITED WAY
United Way of Southwest Michigan fights for the Health, Education, and Financial Stability of every person in every community. We have the influence and relationships to make sustainable change a reality. By harnessing resources from corporate, nonprofit,and public partners, we provide immediate assistance to our most vulnerable populations while addressing the root causes of our community's longstanding challenges and changing lives for the better. To join the fight—through giving, advocacy,and volunteering—visit www.uwsm.org.