mutual expectations for FGI Board Members

Thank you for considering to service on Fostering Greatness Inc.’s (FGI) Board of Directors.

The mission of Fostering Greatness Inc. assists transitioning foster care youth, young adults and alumni of color with life skills, housing stability, education, and career advancement, personal and professional development, leadership development, and full optimal health management.

As you consider this opportunity, please familiarize yourself with this list of expectations:

As a Board Member

  1. I will interpret the organization’s work and values to the community, and promote the organization.

  2. I will attend at least 75% of board meetings (held monthly time and date TBD), committee meetings, and special events.

  3. I will make a personal financial contribution at a level that is meaningful to me.

  4. I will actively participate in one or more fundraising activities.

  5. I will actively participate in one or more standing committees.

  6. I will act in the best interests of the organization, and excuse myself from discussions and votes where I have a conflict of interest.

  7. I will take seriously the major legal responsibilities of serving on a board, including and especially the fiduciary role.

  8. I will stay informed about what’s going on in the organization. I will ask questions and request information. I will participate in and take responsibility for making decisions on issues, policies and other board matters.

  9. I will work in good faith with staff and other board members as partners towards achievement of our goals.

From Fostering Greatness Inc.

  1. I will receive an orientation to the board by the Executive Director and a current member of the Board of Directors.

  2. I will be sent, without request, quarterly financial reports and an update of organizational activities that allow me to act as a “prudent person” in my legal responsibilities as a board member.

  3. Opportunities will be offered to me to discuss with the Executive Director and the Board Chair the organization’s programs, goals, activities, and status; additionally, I can request such opportunities.

  4. The organization will help me perform my duties by keeping me informed about issues in the community-based human services and community in which we are working, and by offering me opportunities for professional development as a board member.

  5. Board members and staff will respond in a straightforward fashion to questions I have that I feel are necessary to carry out my fiscal, legal and moral responsibilities to this organization. Board members and staff will work in good faith with me towards achievement of our goals.

  6. If the organization does not fulfill its commitments to me, I can call on the Board Chair and Executive Director to discuss these responsibilities.

For Your Reflection

  • As you consider joining the board, here are some questions to consider: Is Fostering Greatness Inc. the right cause and organization for me?

  • Why does our organization's mission resonate with you?

  • Why do you want to join the board of directors?

  • What are your personal goals for serving on our board?

  • What would you suggest your unique contribution to be?

  • Thank you and we forward to working with you.