BOARD & COMMITTEES
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.
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.
BOARD MEMBER Criteria
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:
The expectation is that members will serve on the Board for two consecutive, three-year terms.
Consistent Attendance at Board meetings to remain in good standing.
The term begins at the Annual Meeting of the Board, March of each year. (Term start is subject to change)
Board Meeting Cadence: Subject to Change
March, May, July, September, November and January, (Subject to Change; Board meetings may be moved from time to time).
Third Thursday from 4:00-5:30 (Subject to Change)
Committee meetings are held in opposite months of Board meetings.
COMMITTEE MEMBER Criteria
A committee member of the 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:
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.
Revenue 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 in order to accomplish the work of the committee.
Committee Meeting Cadence:
Committee meetings are held in opposite months of Board meetings, or as needed.
PROCESS:
Applications submitted by January 10th, 2026
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 Governance Committee Chair.
Board: Once an applicant is selected, they will be invited to attend a brief orientation. (All applicants will be notified of both yes or no decisions).
Committee: If selected, you will be invited to meet with the Committee Chair.
Names of new Board members will be added to a 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.