Board Development Training - Module 1 - Committing to the board



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» Module 1 - Your Commitment to the Board

Your Commitment


	What Motivates You?
		Your Motives
	What Can You Offer?
		Asset Inventory
	What Do You Need to Know?
		Know Your Organization
	Are You Compatible?
	Meet Your "Classmates" Carlos Debra

The Board's Context

Board Accountabilities

Board Processes

Continuous Learning

Full Text
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Meet Your Classmates

Meet Carlos…

I'm 28 years old and I'm a computer programmer. I first became involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Forest City two years ago because I wanted to give back to the community that gave me so much. I grew up in a single parent family, and had a teacher who was like a mentor to me. He encouraged me to translate my obsession with computer games into a successful information technology career. I decided to volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters so I could provide this kind of guidance and support to another needy child.

I've been matched with my Little Brother for over two years. He can be a handful, and sometimes my busy work schedule gets in the way, but overall we've had a great time together. I can see how much he's changed, and that makes me believe in the program even more. I think I'll always be his Big Brother, even after our match is officially over.

At my last annual match review, my caseworker and the Executive Director asked me to consider becoming a board member. They told me that the board could use my perspective as a Big Brother with a challenging but positive match. They also said that the agency needs my computer expertise.

I've never been involved in a board of directors before, and I'm not sure what to expect. I guess I'm feeling a bit anxious and uncertain about the responsibility I'm taking on, and after completing Module 1, I realize I'm a bit fuzzy on my goals and motivations for joining the board. But it sounds like they're desperate for a Big Brother to sit on the board, and maybe that's a good enough reason for me to join. Why is it so important for me to be clear about my personal goals and motivations for getting involved?
	(A) So that you can target your contributions to maximize benefit for the organization.
	(B) To ensure that you take on assignments that you will find most rewarding.
	(C) To ensure that your objectives are compatible with the organization's needs and goals.
	(D) All of the above.

Now that you have listened to Carlos and helped with his concerns, see what Debra has to say.

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