What Outgoing Board Members Loved Most About Serving on the YNPN Chicago Executive Board

It's not too late to apply to the next YNPN Chicago Executive Board! This year's applications are due by 5:00 p.m. CST on Friday, July 29, 2022, so don't delay and apply today.

Several board members will be completing their service in a few months, so we asked them: "What was your favorite part of YNPN board service?"

Marisa Castillo, Membership Co-Chair: "Originally I joined the board hoping to expand my skills in fundraising to help advance my career. Two years later, board service has not only helped advance my career but has also given me the confidence to step outside my comfort zone and take on more leadership roles in my full time role. Meeting other nonprofit professionals interested in professional development has been my favorite part of board service and something I cherish!"

Chidima Okorie, Membership Co-Chair: "I appreciate how understanding and flexible everyone is especially when life happens unexpectedly and impacts your capacity and ability to serve!"

Julissa Cruz, Board Chair: "In addition to the fabulous YNPN Chicago board members I get to work with regularly, some of my favorite activities have been supporting and attending our annual Celebration event, engaging in great discussions with folks at CSI events, and meeting lovely people across all of our programming events. Being on the Executive Board of YNPN Chicago the past 3 years has been such a tremendous growth opportunity and has helped shape and inform my thoughts and understanding of leadership, governance, and the nonprofit sector as a whole. I look forward to staying in community with YNPN Chicago in the coming years!"

Sammy Suh, Creating Space Initiative Co-Chair: "I really enjoyed being a part of the YNPN Chicago board because it's a great environment to gain new skills and try new things! I love working alongside fellow nonprofit professionals and learning from each other. When you're in your organization, it's hard not to feel isolated or stuck! But being on the YNPN Board, opens you to the world of nonprofits in Chicago and introduces you to a diverse network that you can connect with."

Learn more about what YNPN Executive Board service entails:

Who We Are YNPN Chicago’s Executive Board comprises 20 young professionals from the region’s social sector. We are an all-volunteer, working, and governing board responsible for YNPN Chicago’s strategic vision, operations, and activities. Serving on the board offers a unique opportunity to influence the direction of Chicago’s nonprofit sector and the chance to interact with the city’s most passionate and effective public service leaders.

How It Works While all board members are involved in shaping the direction of YNPN Chicago, the board structure invites a primary focus on one specific organization area. YNPN Chicago remains flexible in changing focus areas depending on evolving needs and capacity. Board members serve a two-year term and are required to attend monthly meetings. Individuals elected to the board are also expected to contribute financially through annual dues of $75. Review our general requirements and open positions here!

What We Look For

• A passion for the mission of YNPN Chicago and the larger nonprofit sector

• Ability to dedicate an average of 8 hours per week to YNPN Chicago responsibilities and activities

• Organized, self-starters who are eager to contribute and able to accomplish projects with minimal supervision

• Commitment to work through the lens of equity, inclusion, and anti-racism

• Ability to balance idea generation with execution

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

• Ability to work both independently and in a collaborative, team environment

Statement on Attracting Candidates from All Backgrounds YNPN Chicago is committed to working towards a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive network and social sector. We strongly encourage individuals of all backgrounds and abilities to apply for board service. We welcome people with non-linear/non-traditional experiences and educational backgrounds. As an organization, we affirm all people regardless of age, culture, abilities, ethnic origin, gender, gender identity, marital status, nationality, race, religion, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status. Read more about our Statement of Inclusivity on our About Us page.

Application Process All applicants will be asked to submit an online application along with a resume and letter of reference by 5:00 p.m. Central Time on Friday, July 29, 2022. Your reference letter should be no more than one page long and provided by either your immediate supervisor or someone who knows you well, professionally or personally. We encourage your recommender to provide explicit examples of your ability to fulfill the duties and expectations of a board member. Candidates selected for an interview must be able to participate in a virtual 30-minute interview on one of the following days: Tuesday, August 23, Wednesday, August 24, or Thursday, August 25. Interviews will take place in the evening, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Candidates will be notified in mid-August if they have been selected for an interview. If elected to board service, a required half-day orientation will occur on Saturday, September 10. The orientation may be either virtual or in-person, depending on the state of the COVID-19 pandemic. Before Applying:

• Please note: You can only access your online application once through SurveyMonkey. The system will also require you to complete most questions before proceeding. Therefore, we highly recommend that you preview our application and prepare your answers before beginning your submission.

• Have PDF copies of your resume and letter of reference available. You will be asked to upload both before submitting your application.