Seeking Board of Directors Candidates
April 2021
Position Description and How to Apply
The Board of the Prison Book Program is accepting applications from prospective new members. If you are interested in working to support PBP and its mission, please consider submitting a self-nomination to join the Board.
Overview
If you are interested in helping to shape the work of PBP, while advancing its mission as a Board member, this role may be for you. Previous Board experience is not a requirement. We want a diverse Board that represents the array of experience that exists among the various stakeholders in our community and which represents our constituents — people in prison.
Role of the Board
Board members have a legal and ethical responsibility to provide oversight to the organization, and to assist with the implementation of program goals and initiatives. A dedicated Board member is one who is willing to share their time, expertise, skills, experience, resources, and networks. Our ideal Board includes those who are enthusiastic about community engagement, strategic thinking and planning, fundraising/financial oversight, and leadership. The board also works closely with the paid staff — currently a Managing Director and Volunteer Coordinator.
Board Member Expectations:
- Commit to a minimum of 1 year term of service
- Approximately 10-15 hours per month (including regular attendance at general Board meetings and committee meetings)
- Engage with PBP’s mission, vision, values, and strategic plan
- Tap into their networks, contacts, and resources
- Meet with existing donors and/or cultivate new donor relationships
- Make a financial contribution annually which is meaningful to you
Seeking Candidates with Any of the Experiences
- First-hand experience with incarceration and/or prison literacy programs
- Professional experience in related fields such as academia, the nonprofit sector, development/fundraising, social justice/organizing, etc.
- Financial acumen and/or accounting experience
- A deep understanding and commitment to PBP’s mission
How to Apply
The first step in being considered for membership on the Board is to fill out an application. Applicants may be contacted for an informal interview in order to assist the Board in making an informed decision. All current Board members will be involved in the application review process. Once an applicant is invited to join the Board and accepts the invitation, they will then participate in an orientation and on-boarding process.
Service on the PBP Board is an unpaid position.
Please contact board@prisonbookprogram.org if you have questions about Prison Book Program or the Board Member recruitment process.
