8 steps to finding and joining a nonprofit board

5 min read

How to Find and Join a Nonprofit Board: A Comprehensive Guide

Joining a nonprofit board is a rewarding way to contribute your skills, make an impact, and align your professional expertise with your personal values. Serving on a board allows you to shape an organization’s mission, support its growth, and expand your professional network. However, many aspiring board members aren’t sure how to get started or where to find the right opportunities. This guide will walk you through the process of identifying, connecting with, and joining a nonprofit board, along with specific resources to help you along the way.

1. Understand What a Nonprofit Board Does

Before embarking on your journey, it’s important to understand the role of a nonprofit board and what will be expected of you.

Governance and Oversight: Board members oversee the organization’s operations, ensuring it fulfills its mission and adheres to legal and ethical standards.
Strategic Planning: Boards set long-term goals and help create strategies to achieve them.
Fundraising and Advocacy: Many nonprofits rely on board members to support fundraising efforts, advocate for the organization, and sometimes contribute financially.
Community Representation: Boards often benefit from diverse voices that represent the communities they serve.

Evaluate your skills, interests, and availability to ensure you’re prepared for the commitment.

2. Reflect on Your Goals and Skills

Nonprofits seek board members who can bring value to their organization. Reflect on what you have to offer:

Professional Expertise: Skills in finance, law, marketing, human resources, or technology are often in high demand.
Leadership Experience: Demonstrated leadership in your career or volunteer work can make you an attractive candidate.
Passion for the Mission: Nonprofits value individuals who are passionate about their cause, whether it’s education, environmental conservation, social justice, or healthcare.
Network Connections: Access to a professional network or potential donors can be an asset.

Likewise, consider what you want to gain from the experience, whether it’s making a difference in your community, learning more about nonprofit management, or expanding your professional network.

3. Research Nonprofits Aligned with Your Interests

Finding a nonprofit whose mission resonates with you is crucial. Here are ways to identify potential organizations:

Start with Your Community

Attend local nonprofit events, fundraisers, and networking sessions.
Volunteer with organizations to build relationships and gain firsthand experience with their work.
Reach out to your local United Way chapter, community foundation, or nonprofit resource center for recommendations.

Explore Online Databases and Resources

Several platforms specialize in connecting professionals with nonprofit board opportunities:

BoardSource (boardsource.org): Offers resources and a board recruitment service to connect nonprofits with potential board members.
LinkedIn: Use LinkedIn’s job search feature and professional network to find board opportunities. Search for terms like “nonprofit board member” or “board of directors.”
VolunteerMatch (volunteermatch.org): Lists board member positions alongside volunteer opportunities.
Idealist (idealist.org): Provides a robust search platform for nonprofit jobs, internships, and board positions.
Bridgespan (bridgespan.org): Focuses on leadership roles within nonprofits, including board opportunities.

Tap Into Professional and Alumni Networks

Many professional organizations have committees or initiatives dedicated to nonprofit engagement.
Your alma mater’s alumni association may offer opportunities to join boards of university-affiliated or alumni-founded nonprofits.

4. Network Strategically

Networking is one of the most effective ways to connect with nonprofit boards. Many board opportunities are never publicly advertised, so personal connections can be invaluable.

Leverage Existing Relationships

Let your colleagues, mentors, and friends know that you’re interested in joining a nonprofit board.
If you’re already volunteering with a nonprofit, express your interest in deeper involvement to the staff or current board members.

Attend Networking Events

Seek out nonprofit mixers, charity events, or leadership conferences where you can meet nonprofit professionals and board members.
Join organizations like Rotary Club, Junior League, or other civic groups that often have strong nonprofit connections.

Engage on Social Media

Follow nonprofits on social media platforms to stay updated on their activities and leadership changes.
Join nonprofit leadership groups on LinkedIn or Facebook to learn about opportunities and connect with like-minded professionals.

5. Tailor Your Application

When a board opportunity arises, treat the process with the same level of professionalism as a job application. Many boards request a resume, cover letter, and sometimes a formal interview.

Craft a Compelling Resume

Highlight your professional achievements, volunteer experience, and skills that align with the nonprofit’s needs. If you’ve previously served on a board or committee, make sure to include those details.

Write a Personalized Cover Letter

Explain why you’re passionate about the organization’s mission and how your skills can contribute to its goals. Share specific examples of your past accomplishments and how they relate to the nonprofit’s work.

Prepare for the Interview

Board interviews often focus on your interest in the mission, your understanding of governance responsibilities, and how you can add value to the organization. Be ready to discuss:

Why you’re drawn to the nonprofit’s mission.
Your experience with fundraising, leadership, or advocacy.
How you approach teamwork and collaboration.

6. Evaluate the Board Opportunity

Not every board is the right fit. Before committing, evaluate the following:

Board Expectations: Understand the time commitment, financial expectations (e.g., annual donations), and meeting schedules.
Board Dynamics: Assess the board’s culture and level of engagement. Is it collaborative, forward-thinking, and inclusive?
Organization’s Health: Research the nonprofit’s financial stability, reputation, and impact in the community. Look at their Form 990 (available on sites like Guidestar) for transparency and financial details.
Conflict of Interest Policies: Ensure you can avoid potential conflicts between your professional role and the nonprofit’s activities.

7. Commit and Contribute

Once you’ve joined a board, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and contribute meaningfully:

Be an Active Participant: Attend meetings, engage in discussions, and stay informed about the organization’s activities.
Support Fundraising Efforts: Leverage your network, help plan events, or contribute to campaigns.
Offer Your Expertise: Use your professional skills to advise on areas like marketing, finance, or legal compliance.
Advocate for the Mission: Promote the nonprofit’s work within your community and social circles.

8. Continuous Learning and Growth

To be an effective board member, commit to ongoing education about nonprofit governance and leadership. Resources to explore:

BoardSource Membership: Offers webinars, tools, and a knowledge center for board members.
Nonprofit Leadership Training: Look for workshops, courses, or certifications through local universities, community foundations, or platforms like Coursera.
Books on Nonprofit Boards: Titles like The Nonprofit Board Answer Book and Good to Great and the Social Sectors can provide valuable insights.

Conclusion

Joining a nonprofit board is both a personal and professional milestone. By aligning your passion and skills with an organization’s mission, you can create meaningful change while enriching your own life. Start by reflecting on your goals, researching opportunities, and networking strategically. Use resources like BoardSource, VolunteerMatch, and your personal connections to find the right fit. Once you’ve joined a board, dedicate yourself to making a lasting impact.

Embarking on this journey requires time and effort, but the rewards—both for you and the communities you serve—are immeasurable. Start today, and take the first step toward joining a nonprofit board that aligns with your values and aspirations.