A recent Humanity Project Board of Directors retreat (two members absent)
The Humanity Project Board of Directors has just adopted a new code for themselves… a set of expectations, really, for those who are privileged to sit among this distinguished group of folks. Our board includes respected authors and college professors, teachers and journalists, health experts and LGBTQ activists. They are smart, seasoned and eager to advance the values of the Humanity Project.
The recently adopted document spells out expectations big and small, something that should prove especially useful for future board members. Here is the new statement:
Responsibilities of Humanity Project Board Membership
The Humanity Project is a unique nonprofit organization with a rich history dating from its founding in 2005. THP board membership is an honor and a privilege given carefully selected individuals who unequivocally agree with the Humanity Project’s mission, motto, programs and methods. Accordingly, this statement of responsibilities is adopted by the Humanity Project Board of Directors as guidance for members, new and old. We believe it outlines the minimum engagement that THP board members should expect of themselves and each other as part of a team that aims to make a significant difference in the community and beyond.
Every Humanity Project board member is expected to do the following:
1. Read each THP newsletter and email carefully
2. Respond promptly to important emails when feedback or votes are requested
3. Attend all THP board meetings unless prevented by an unavoidable personal or professional conflict
4. Make at least one personal monetary donation to THP each year
5. Attempt to raise donations and/or attract sponsorships whenever feasible
6. Attend at least half of THP’s public events each year
7. Do your best in daily life to spread word of THP’s mission, website, social media and work in the community
8. Whenever possible, assist with hands-on efforts to advance THP programs and projects under the guidance of THP’s president or other staff leadership: e.g. helping deliver Humanity Club sessions; making phone calls; helping event setup/breakdown; scheduling Speakers Bureau appearances; etc.
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Those eight simple items make clear that the Humanity Project is an active organization with strong, engaged leadership — and that future board members must plan to take vigorous part in our efforts. We think this is just one more way that our 20-year-old nonprofit can ensure we’re doing everything possible to inspire individual self-worth as well as universal respect and equality. That’s our goal. Our great Board of Directors is an important tool as we go about doing this work, day in and day out.
