How do you get on a board of directors for non-profits?

Question

I'm looking to be on a board of directors for a local, non-profit organization. How do I approach them? Do you typically send them a letter, go to meet with them? What's the standard operating procedure for this?

Answer 1

Well, I didn't dodge fast enough and wound up on the board of a local non-profit.  But they vary as to the procedure and requirements.  The board I'm on just asks for some time and effort.  Some boards require dues or other "donations" for board memberships and some are quite expensive.  I'm not trying to put them down, but a required "donation" doesn't seem like a donation.  Still, most non-profits have open board meetings.  That means that anybody can go and observe.  Find the time and place of the meetings of the organization you're interested in and go to one.  Introduce yourself and explain your interest.  I'm sure they'll welcome your interest.  Most non-profits have to work hard to get members and somebody like yourself would be a prize for them.