A Unique Opportunity to Help Improve Lives in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren Counties
United Way of Southwest Michigan is calling on passionate community members to bring their time, energy, and talents to either our Board of Directors, or one of our dedicated committees. For many of the leaders you’ve met in the three county area, there is a very good chance they’ve served in some volunteer capacity for United Way in the past, or are currently serving. Now you, too, can serve and make an impact.
I personally served as a committee member more than 15 years ago. It was my first experience serving on a committee, and the experience I gained was invaluable. I appreciated the networking opportunities I gained with area CEOs and municipal officials, our impact partners, and my fellow committee members. That experience led me to volunteer more, and grew to joining the Board of Directors. I was honored to even serve as the Board Chair for several years before I made the decision to actually join the United Way staff last April. I realized my passion to serve was so strong within me that I wanted to do this work every day!
Everyone’s path to volunteer community service is different, but two values hold true in everyone’s experience: you must have the time to devote, and, you must have the passion to serve. Past experience matters when being considered, but passion and willingness is key above all. If you’re ready to jump into service, we are ready to hear from you!
United Way of Southwest Michigan is looking for Board Members that will help us advocate for our mission and programs, provide oversight to the organization, set policy, make a personal gift, join a committee, and six meetings annually.
You should demonstrate accountability, integrity, and a passion for improving the lives of local residents. While prior Board or Committee experience is welcome, it’s not required. Applicants should bring skills and perspectives that complement our team and a commitment to serving the Southwest Michigan community.
Committee members are an integral part of how United Way gets work done to steer the organization and our mission. This is where lots of new, passionate volunteers get their start, even if their level of experience is low. You could help us in the following areas:
Finance Committee - Oversees the organization's financial health, budgeting, and financial reporting to ensure sound fiscal management.
Governance Committee - Ensures effective board operations by managing policies, recruitment, evaluation, and adherence to governance best practices.
Impact Committee - Monitors and evaluates the organization's programs and initiatives to ensure they align with its mission and deliver meaningful outcomes.
Resource Sustainability Committee - Focuses on long-term sustainability by managing and enhancing resources such as funding, assets, and economic impact.
If you’d like to apply, you’ll need to do so quickly. The deadline is this coming week, Monday, February 3. Simply go to uwsm.org/board-committee-application to make your submission. We look forward to hearing from you!
