Volunteering as a nonprofit board member for the last year and a half has been a wonderful experience. Depending on the nonprofit, this experience could look drastically different. I've really enjoyed my time as a board member with experience Access Language Solutions because gotten an inside look at nonprofit administration that I didn't have before when I was an AmeriCorps VISTA with KITA. I accepted the board member position after freelancing as
As one of five board members, I develop, review, and approve plans of reorganization or growth. This requires attending quarterly board member meetings via Zoom to discuss finances, plans, and more. Some of these plans include how we can expand and improve the linguistic services that the nonprofit provides. In collaboration with the Executive Director, the board members and I brainstorm ways we can strengthen the existing services or potentially develop new ones in order to best service our clients.
In addition, I personally offer marketing advice and provide first-hand insight to help grow the organization’s marketing strategies. I review outcomes and metrics to evaluate the performance of social media marketing strategies. Occasionally, I design print marketing materials such as infographics or brochures to promote Access Language Solutions' services. My past experience with social media marketing for KITA really prepared me for helping other nonprofits, so I'm happy to provide marketing advice or assistance as needed in my current role as a board member Access Language Solutions.
My responsibilities and duties are very different as a board member. Now, I play a very serious hand in the decision making process of the nonprofit's structure, growth, and plans. Along with the other board members and Executive Director, I evaluate and approve financial decisions. Together we also assess ways Access Language Solutions can grow our community partnerships, especially with other 501(c)3 nonprofits that share our mission and vision for strengthening language access in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
This experience has helped me grow my experience, resume, and portfolio. A diverse background, including paid jobs and volunteer positions, can help you stand out in your industry or on your next application. Having a wide variety of experience helps you learn new information and processes as well as strengthens important skills like critical thinking. If you're interested in learning more about my experience as a board member, please reach out; I'm more than happy to discuss my personal experience.