Have been asked to sit on a Board of Directors of a non-profit org.- What should one consider B4 accepting?

Question

I would be representing a contituency of a npo
membership -service arts org. I have had the position before, am not sure i should repeat. Need to determine my own personal goals and see if they mesh with this. Not sure if it is worth my while professionally or personally. Looking to reestablish /establish myself , in general, though perhaps not in this field.
What are reasonable criteria to consider before accepting this....?

Answer 1

Sounds like you already thought about this quite a bit.

Are you honestly in the middle on this or are you trying to convince yourself not to do it?

Your right about asking yourself what your goals are and where you are in your life at the moment.

You know what the position entails.

Is this the field for you?
Can you afford to take a non-paying position at this time?
Do you have the right criteria for the job (qualifications)?
Will you be happy in this position?
What will you bring to the table and will it make you feel good(ie. productive, useful)?

At least these are the questions I would ask myself.

I worked for a non-profit organization. I am in a paid position, but I know the importance of the board of directors and other non-paid members. They are an essential part of what we do. They are very appreciated and make a huge difference in the lives of many people;both directly and indirectly.

In the end, you have to make this decision for yourself. No one is going to be able to tell you what decision to make or maybe even how to make it.

So all my rambling was for not.

Good luck in whatever you choose to do.

Answer 2

Did you have the position as Board Member before at this organization or another? If you have already stepped down from the board, and are considering rejoining, I would think you should re-examine the reasons you left in the first place.

if you are considering a board position at another org, here are some things to consider

Financial consideration: Board members are frequently asked to contribute financially to the organization thru pledges and fundraisers, and expected to network the organization to friends and business associates. How much does the organization expect board members to contribute?

Time consideration: Board members sit on committee and subcommittee meetings. What are the frequency of such meetings?

Motive: Unfortunately, boards are often filled with individuals looking more to enhance their own postion than advance the mission of the organization. This is not in the best interest of the individual or the organization. Does your interest in the position reflect your personal interest in advancing the goals of the organization or yourself?

I think you know what the answer to your own question is. Hopefully, you will know what to do.