United Way of Southwest Michigan works in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties to Create a united & Resilient community where everyone contributes, belongs and thrives.
Board and Committee Member Recruitment
Board and Committee members are recruited in a variety of ways. One way is to gain the interest of community members through this application process.
A Board and Committee Member is someone who will volunteer time, energy, and talent to help further the Mission of UWSM.
Board members 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 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.
Provide an annual financial gift to UWSM that reflects the priority of supporting the organization and its work.
Be willing to sign both a Code of Ethics and a Statement of Confidentiality policy.
Qualifications:
Having some previous experience as a Board member is desirable, however, not required.
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 support the needs of the organizations and compliment the dynamics of the sitting Board members
Board Terms/Participation:
A full term is a two, three - year period.
Attendance will be required at 75% of Board meetings to remain in good standing.
Term begins at the Annual Meeting of the Board, March of each year.
Board Meeting Cadence:
March, May, July, September, November and January, (Board meetings may be moved from time to time).
Third Thursday from 4:00-5:30
Committee meetings are held in opposite months of Board meetings.
Committee member of a board is an individual who serves on a smaller group (a committee). Committees are created to focus on specific areas of responsibility or to carry out particular tasks that require more detailed attention than the full board can provide. All Committees are chaired by a Board member.
Committees:
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.
Responsibilities:
Serve as advocates for the mission, work, and efforts of UWSM.
Act as an ambassador for the organization when at events or whenever networking chances are available.
Provide an annual financial gift to UWSM that reflects the priority of supporting the organization and its work.
Be willing to sign both a Code of Ethics and a Statement of Confidentiality policy.
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 support the needs of the committee.
Participation:
Committee members do not have terms.
Consistent Attendance is required inorder to accomplish the work of the committee.
Committee Meeting Cadence:
Committee meetings are held in opposite months of Board meetings ( February , April, June, August, October & December).
What’s in it for YOU?
You have an opportunity to get involved, make a difference, and realize a great sense of meaning through the work.
You will build meaningful new relationships and expand your network.
You will gain new perspectives.
Develop useful skills or leverage current skills to ensure a strong and positive experience.
Process:
Applications submitted by January 29, 2025
Applications Reviewed by Governance Committee.
Board: Consideration for approval is contingent to your submission and alignment with current Board needs.
If an applicant is considered, they will be scheduled for a brief interview with the CEO, Board Chair and or Committee Chair.
Once an applicant is selected, they will be notified (All applicants will be notified of both yes or no decisions).
Orientation will be scheduled.
For Board members, names will be added to the slate for approval at the Annual Meeting of the Board in March.
**If an applicant for a Board position is not an immediate fit for a Board position, recommendation may be made for a Committee position.