Often we ask people to join Boards without being clear in what our expectations are. Clarity from the start of a relationship is key to helping Board Members be as successful as possible and allowing them to aid an organization and move it forward. Too often people are asked without any explanation of what will be expected of them. Outlining responsibilities from the start and asking for signatures to show these responsibilities are understood and agreeable allows all to move forward with the organization as a priority.
While the below was developed specifically for an orchestra, these expectations and the form they can be made into can be easily adapted for a variety of arts organizations.
The mission of the
ABC Philharmonic is to strengthen our community and region by providing high
quality live orchestra concerts and programs that enrich, entertain, and
educate people of all ages.
Responsibilities
for Membership
Election to the ABC Philharmonic Board of Governors brings
with it a responsibility of trusteeship.
It calls upon the person elected to dedicate time, thought, and energy
as well as financial support toward the viability and progress of the ABC
Philharmonic. Please check each box to show understanding, sign at the bottom of the
form, and return to the office. Each
Board member is expected to:
Read
and understand the By-laws of the ABC Philharmonic.
Attend
Board Meetings. It is imperative
that Board Members attend all meetings so that they can be informed of Board
business and vote knowledgeably on issues brought before the Board. It is understood that some Board business may
be sensitive and therefore remain confidential.
Attend
Board Training Programs. Board Members
need to be knowledgeable about the responsibilities and concerns of the
Board. Participation in Board
orientations, updates, and retreats is expected of each Board member.
Have a
Good Working Relationship with each other, the Executive Director, and the
Music Director.
Recommend
Qualified Individuals with Relevant Skill and Experience as possible
nominees for membership on the Board of Governors.
Give
to the Annual Fund. Board Members
set a leadership example by contributing to the Annual Fund Drive. In order to receive maximum grant funding, a
personal contribution to the Annual Fund Drive is expected of each Board Member.
Be a
Subscriber. Board Members are
expected to purchase a season subscription or flex package, attend concerts
regularly, and commit to bring a guest(s) to concerts.
Be
Active Fundraisers. The
Philharmonic’s financial stability depends on contributions from private
individuals, corporations, and foundations.
Board Members are expected to identify potential donors and sponsors,
actively solicit contributors, and participate in the fundraising and
sponsorship solicitation efforts of the Board.
Accept
Appointment to and Actively Participate in Committee Work. The work of the Board is accomplished for
the most part in committees.
Participation on committees as assigned is a requirement and an
opportunity to become a more knowledgeable and effective Board Member.
Function
as an Ambassador for the ABC
Use
Contacts, Talents, and Influence to Benefit the ABC
I have read the above
responsibilities, understand them, and accept election to the ABC Philharmonic
Board of Governors.
_________________________________________________ ______________________________
________________________________________________ ______________________________
Signature of the Chair of the Board of Governors Date
No comments:
Post a Comment