Interested in becoming a NEW Board Member?

Board Member FAQ

For Prospective and Current Members of the Board of Directors New Endeavors by Women (NEW)

1. What is New Endeavors by Women’s mission?

By partnering with homeless women, NEW creates new futures. We provide a nurturing environment so women can recognize their worth. NEW transforms lives by providing housing, fostering the development of life skills, and promoting education and employment — ending the cycle of homelessness.

2. What is the role of the Board of Directors?

The Board governs the organization, ensuring that NEW stays mission-focused, fiscally sound, and strategically aligned. The Board’s core responsibilities include:

• Hiring, supporting, and evaluating the Executive Director

• Approving budgets and overseeing financial health

• Participating in fundraising and advocacy

• Providing strategic guidance and oversight

• Representing NEW in the community

• Ensuring compliance with all legal and ethical standards

3. How long is a board term?

Board members serve two-year terms beginning January 1. Members may serve up to four consecutive terms (a total of eight years). After one year off the Board, a member is eligible for re-election.

4. How often does the Board meet?

The Board meets on a virtual platform for 60-90 minutes eight times per year, typically in: February, March, April, May, June, August, October, November, and December. In January the Board conducts an annual retreat for about 6 hours, in person, at the New Endeavors by Women office. No regular meetings are held in January, July, or September.

Members are expected to attend regular meetings and any special or committee meetings as called. A quorum (majority of members) is required for business to proceed.

5. What is expected in terms of attendance?

Consistent participation is essential. At full Board members are expected to:

• Attend at least 75% of scheduled full Board meetings

• Participate actively in discussions and decision-making

• Notify the Chair or Secretary of any planned absences in advance

Participation in at least one committee is expected of all Board members, including participation in regular committee meetings, which vary by each committee’s purpose. 

Failure to engage meaningfully or uphold responsibilities may result in review by the Governance Committee.

6. What are the fundraising (“give/get”) expectations?

Each Board member is expected to contribute personally and to help secure additional resources for NEW.

Typical expectations include:

• Making a personally meaningful annual financial contribution (“give”)

• Helping raise additional funds through personal networks, event participation, or sponsorships (“get”)

• Participating in NEW’s annual fundraising events and campaigns

The specific annual “give/get” target is set by the Board and reviewed periodically by the Governance and Development Committees. In 2025 the cumulative “give/get” target is $3,000. 

7. Are Board members required to serve on committees?

Yes. Each Board member must serve on at least one standing committee, such as:

• Executive Committee (Officers only)

• Finance Committee

• Governance Committee

• Development Committee

Committees meet between Board meetings to advance specific areas of work and report back to the full Board.

8. What officers serve on the Board and what do they do?

Officers are elected annually and include:

• Chair: Leads the Board and acts as liaison with the Executive Director

• Vice Chair: Supports and substitutes for the Chair as needed

• Secretary: Maintains meeting minutes and Board records

• Treasurer: Oversees finances and works with the Executive Director on the budget

9. Are Board members compensated?

No. All Board positions are volunteer. Members may be reimbursed for authorized expenses incurred on behalf of NEW.

10. What kind of time commitment is expected?

On average, Board members can expect to contribute:

• 2–4 hours per month attending meetings, preparing for discussions, and fulfilling committee work

• Additional time during fundraising events, special projects, or strategic planning sessions

11. How are new Board members selected?

The Governance Committee reviews candidates based on the organization’s needs and skills profile, conducts outreach and interviews, and recommends a slate for election. Elections occur at the December Board Meeting.

12. What other commitments are expected?

Board members are expected to:

• Act in good faith and in the best interest of NEW

• Serve as ambassadors of the mission in the community

• Maintain confidentiality and uphold NEW’s reputation

• Complete and adhere to the annual Board Commitment Form

• Participate in Board self-assessments and training