A special thanks to our board members whose terms end this month: Mark Herron, Gary Woodworth, and Jeff Kennedy. Your contributions are greatly valued and appreciated.

Volunteerism has been a cornerstone of community engagement and organization success since the beginning of nonprofit organizations and community boards. In the realm of nonprofit organizations, the role of volunteer board members takes center stage as they play a pivotal role in steering the organization toward its goals. Volunteer leaders are responsible for the direction of the organization. The board governs, develops policy, and sets a course.

Good board members are driven by a sense of community and commitment. They are committed to the mission of the organization and contribute their time, expertise, and passion to ensure the success and ongoing sustainability of the organization. Good board members recognize that staff are responsible for the administration of the organization. Staff partner with the board to advance goals and strategies, while taking care of the daily operations and administrative needs.

Volunteer board members serve as the caretakers of an organization's strategic mission and vision. Good organizations are intentional about attracting board members with diverse backgrounds and expertise to bring a variety of perspectives to the decision-making process. This helps ensure a well-rounded approach to organizational challenges. A board that represents various fields and experiences helps in formulating strategic plans that are comprehensive and forward-thinking. This diversity in leadership fosters creativity, innovation, and adaptability, crucial qualities for an organization navigating an ever-changing landscape.

Board members are essential to ensure effective governance for the smooth functioning of any organization. Volunteer board members assume the responsibility of establishing and maintaining comprehensive governance structures. They ensure that the organization operates within legal and ethical boundaries, adheres to its mission, and remains accountable to its members or funders. Board members act as fiduciaries, safeguarding the organization's resources and reputation, thereby instilling trust among donors, beneficiaries, and the wider community.

Nonprofit organizations often face complex challenges that require a range of skills and expertise. Volunteer board members bring their professional knowledge and experience to the table, offering strategic guidance on matters such as finance, marketing, legal compliance, and program development. This expertise enables the organization to make informed decisions, overcome obstacles, and continually improve its operations.

Good board members serve as ambassadors for the organization, actively engaging with the community to raise awareness about its mission and impact. Their involvement in advocacy efforts helps amplify the organization's voice and influence, addressing systemic issues related to its cause. By building strong relationships with key stakeholders, board members contribute to the organization's long-term sustainability and create a positive ripple effect in the broader community.

Volunteer board members are the lifeblood of nonprofit organizations, providing the leadership, governance, and strategic direction necessary for success. Their selfless dedication, coupled with a diverse array of skills and experiences, positions them as catalysts for positive change. As organizations continue to navigate an ever-changing landscape, the role of volunteer board members remains invaluable in fostering resilience, innovation, and sustained impact.

Recognizing and valuing the contributions of these individuals is crucial for ensuring the health and vibrancy of nonprofit organizations and, by extension, the communities they serve. Many organizations (including Vail Valley Partnership) operate on a calendar year cycle for board members, and we’ve been fortunate to have board members over the years who fit the above description and criteria. Thank you to those who serve our community by volunteering on nonprofit boards, local associations, special districts, and town or county committees. Your commitment to the community and our community-based organizations is appreciated and your time, talent, and treasure help make Eagle County a great place.

Chris Romer is president & CEO of Vail Valley Partnership, the regional chamber of commerce. Learn more at VailValleyPartnership.com