If you’ve served on a charity’s board of directors, you know that the role demands much more than simply showing up for meetings. Charities benefit from board members’ active engagement, strategic oversight, and a deep commitment to the organization’s mission. Indeed, board members are fiduciaries who are responsible for guiding the nonprofit’s culture, ensuring sound governance, providing financial stewardship, and acting as ambassadors and advocates in the community. Beyond legal duties, they are expected to help secure resources, oversee leadership, and contribute to the charity’s long-term sustainability and impact.
If this sounds like a lot, it’s because it is! The community foundation can serve as an invaluable resource to support your decision-making process. Visit the Nonprofit Database on our website. This resource will help you learn a little more about the many organizations that serve Wayne County residents. Most will welcome the opportunity to talk with you about volunteering and board service.
Thorough due diligence is crucial, not only to ensure that the board position would be a good fit for your skills, interests, and availability, but also to avoid potential legal pitfalls and liabilities that could stand in the way of your ability to carry out your fiduciary duties.
Please reach out anytime. Our team may be able to connect you with an organization that matches your skill set and interests. It is our honor to help you make a difference in the community we all love, whether that’s through charitable giving, board service, volunteering, or advocacy. The community foundation is your home for philanthropy in all of its many forms.
