Active Aging

Grow while serving your community: Become a board member

by Stacey Glemser

Recently, I was asked to volunteer my time to the Stockbridge Area Senior Center by serving on the Board of Directors. I thought to myself, “What better way to give back to my community?” At the same time, I was nervous, as I had never done something like this before. I’m hoping by sharing my story, others will be encouraged to consider giving back in any way they can.

First let’s explore the responsibilities of being a board member. Board members are a part of the planning and executing of the strategic vision and mission of the organization. Together, fellow board members lay the groundwork and establish the framework of the organization.

A board member’s responsibility doesn’t end there. Members of the board are also responsible for ensuring the organization is successful and all guidelines and policies are followed. Depending on the organization, a board member may also serve as an executive member, such as president, vice president, treasurer, secretary, or other assigned role. The work that the board does supports and ensures the organization’s success.

Now, let’s explore why you should consider joining a board and how it can help you in your career or in your life. Serving on a board can give you a chance to network within the organization and your surrounding community. You may even have the opportunity to represent your organization and your local community county-wide. Serving on a board can also expand your skill set, help you develop additional leadership skills, and provide you an opportunity to learn more about your organization and community.

My decision to serve has been very rewarding. I have had the opportunity to meet and network with senior leadership within our county and our community. Even after 30+ years of professional experience in the workforce, I am learning new things every day as part of a nonprofit organization. If you are interested in networking opportunities, learning new skills, and helping your community, serving on a board may be the next step in the right direction.

I encourage you to seek out your local organizations for opportunities. If you are unsure if you want to commit to being on a board, ask to sit in on their open sessions. Ask to speak to other board members about their roles and find out where you might be able to be a service. It does take some dedication and time, but in the end, when you can see how it benefits so many people in a positive way, you will be glad you made the choice to join the board.

The members of the Stockbridge Area Senior Center Board of Directors are SASC ambassadors, always representing the organization in their personal and professional lives, telling the story of the center and garnering support through membership, volunteerism, and encouraging in-kind and financial contributions.

If board service appeals to you, please consider reaching out to one of our Stockbridge Area Senior Center board members to learn more. You may call 517-480-0353 or email [email protected].
We are currently seeking members with specific skillsets to round out our leadership team.  We’d love to explore the opportunity with you.

Board members take part in the planning and executing of the strategic vision and mission of the organization. Photo credit: Damir Kopezhanov on unsplash.com.

Stacey Glemser is vice president of the board of directors of the Stockbridge Area Senior Center (SASC)—a great place to spend time. Visit stockbridgeareaseniors.org or call 517-480-0353 for information.