June 12, 2021 – West Bend, WI – The United Way of Washington County Emerging Leaders Group held a gathering with a local panel this week. The hot topic was to pull the curtain back on what it was like to be on the board of a non-profit organization.
Q: As people grow in their career and community and look to enhance both how do you choose a nonprofit board?
Nicole Pretre – First board was UW alumni club of alumni. Good way to connect and network. Find your passion and common denominator. Start volunteering during a fundraising event then your can feel the rhythm of the organization.
Bob Meidenbauer – As a banker there’s an expectation it will happened and then you find what you are passionate about. Need to make the time and be engaged. I targeted my mentors and asked for help identifying opportunities.
Christian Tscheschlok – Ask where an organization is at and what type of engagement is needed. There are hands-on boards that are rigorous and other boards are a well-oiled machine. Take time and think through how much you’re willing to commit
Hailey Nenonen – Identify your passion and then volunteer. Think through the commitment and identify the skill set you bring. Start on a committee and work your way up. It really needs to be the right fit and not just the people that show up to meetings. You get people who really want to dig in and work.
What is the time commitment on a board?
CT – Whatever they tell you multiply it times 10. Terms on a board vary so do your homework. Normally a 2-to-3 year commitment
NP – Ask for board job description. Ask questions and be up front. Ask if there is a financial commitment.
DU – make sure your choice aligns with your core values.
Lessons learned
HN – Don’t be intimidated. As a nonprofit it is work from your heart. Volunteer first so you can learn the culture.  We’re on boards because we want to help.
BM – Don’t be intimidated. That’s natural. Volunteer and dip your toe in the water to test the fit.
NP – One mistake I made was over extending myself. Be mindful of your time.
DU – Look at the mission. Getting in there and doing it is the rewarding piece of it
CT – Have fun.
How to get people involved
DU – Our big push is the United Way campaign. Get people involved. Make people aware of what you do.
Is it as rewarding as you thought
NP – Hearing the stories about those who benefit that makes it rewarding. Making that impact in your community it is very rewarding
BM – You get out of it what you put into it. Find the right fit.
HN – Our day job if your lucky in life it doesn’t feel like a job but your volunteer work that comes from the heart because you’re changing lives. It is so rewarding because it becomes your heart and soul.
