La Plata County is an active and caring community. I recognized this again as I reviewed the recent Durango Herald Volunteer and Nonprofit Resource Guide published last month.
One way to take an active part in this caring community is to serve on the board of directors for a local nonprofit agency. As the director at Southern Ute Community Action Programs director, I know we are always seeking interested and engaged community members to join our board. In addition to providing a much-needed service, serving on a board offers you the opportunity to learn more about our community and about specific services or programs offered by an agency.
La Plata County has a plethora of nonprofit organizations, so this is the perfect place to get involved. The best way to explore board opportunities is to ask family, friends and coworkers about causes for which they are passionate. Most organizations have a website with helpful information. Researching social media and other public information can help refine your search to a few organizations that interest you.
Once you find an organization where you want to volunteer, request a one-on-one meeting with the nonprofit’s executive director or board president. During this meeting, listen and ask questions to see if it is a good fit.
Before making a commitment to serve on a board, it is important to review the organization’s bylaws. Bylaws essentially outline how a board functions and the roles and duties of officers.
Next, understand your legal duties. Colorado law requires board members to follow various regulations in good faith. Principles & Practices for Nonprofit Excellence in Colorado published by the Colorado Nonprofit Association outlines various topics including board governance, advocacy and fund development, which is a good tool for new and existing board members.
Finally, serving on a board typically requires some form of financial donation. Select an organization where you feel good about making a time and monetary commitment.
Bottom line, nonprofits in our community need passionate and caring people to volunteer and serve on its board of directors.
Eileen Wasserbach, executive director Southern Ute Community Action Programs
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