Lewis County Autism Coalition

Board Member Application

Thank you for your interest in serving as a member of the Board of Directors of the Lewis County Autism Coalition. Serving on the board is a rewarding experience and opportunity for personal and professional growth. Completing this form will give you an understanding of this leadership position's necessary skills, time, and resource commitments. We recommend reading through the entire application before you begin filling it out.

This application will be kept confidential and on file with the Lewis County Autism Coalition. Applications are used by the Board to identify and evaluate potential board candidates. All new directors are elected by a majority vote of the existing board members.

Board Member Responsibilities

Board of directors members hold critical roles in guiding and overseeing the operations of an organization. Our board members make a serious commitment to participate actively in LCAC work. The LCAC is a working board, and directors are expected to participate in committees, events, fundraising, and other activities.

It is important for the Lewis County Autism Coalition to be transparent when outlining expectations for prospective board member applicants. On average, an engaged board of directors member can anticipate dedicating two to fifteen hours a month, depending on the time of year and level of events occurring.

For example, our annual Southwest Washington Autism Conference is a flagship event highly anticipated by our community. This event may warrant a day of volunteering on the event date. Additionally, if you serve on the Conference Committee, those meetings are held once a month for one hour, not including the volunteer time spent following through on committed tasks. There are multiple program opportunities to share your passion and desire to serve on the Board. You get to choose in which capacity and to what end you would like to become involved!

Meetings and Participation

Service: Serves a minimum of one (1) three-year term with a minimum of 75% attendance at monthly board meetings.

Attendance: Attend and actively participate in board meetings and committee assignments.

Preparation: Come prepared for meetings by reviewing agenda materials and reports.

Engagement: Engage in thoughtful discussion, provide insights, and contribute to decision-making processes. Stays informed about committee matters, is prepared for meetings, and reviews and comments on minutes and reports, including financials.

Governance and Oversight

Strategic Planning: Collaborate in setting the organization's long-term goals and strategic direction. This includes an annual board retreat that is typically a one to two day overnight stay within a reasonable distance to Lewis County and all accommodations provided.

Policy Development: When necessary, establish and review policies to ensure the organization is well-managed and meets its mission.

Performance Monitoring: Oversee the performance of the executive director and ensure the organization achieves its objectives.

Financial Responsibilities

Budget Approval: Review and approve the annual budget to ensure financial health and sustainability.

Financial Oversight: Monitor financial performance and ensure proper financial controls are in place.

Fundraising: Participate in fundraising activities and support efforts to secure funding for the organization.

Legal and Ethical Responsibilities

Compliance: Ensure the organization complies with legal requirements and ethical standards.

Risk Management: Identify and manage risks to protect the organization's assets and reputation.

Accountability: Ensure transparency and accountability to stakeholders, including donors, members, and the public.

Organizational Support

Executive Director Support: Provide guidance, support, and evaluation for the executive director.

Resource Provision: Leverage personal and professional networks to bring resources, partnerships, and opportunities to the organization.

Advocacy: Act as an ambassador for the organization, promoting its mission and values within the community.

Fellow Support: Builds a respectful and congenial relationship with other directors, committee members, contractors, and volunteers.

Evaluation and Development

Self-Evaluation: Participate in periodic self-assessments to evaluate board performance and effectiveness.

Continuing Education: Engage in ongoing education and development to stay informed about best practices in governance and the organization's field.

Advancement: Participates in the advancement of the organization's missions and goals while supporting the vision of the organization.

Board Candidate Questionnaire

Thank you for taking the time to express your interest in joining us in our mission!