I am in the process of doing some strategic planning for non profits and am finding that few have youth on their regular Board of Directors. I am wondering how many actually do have youth on Boards and if this is a new trend or something that has just fallen by the wayside.
Please share your experiences or thoughts.
Nancy
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Hello!
ReplyDeleteIt is a great pride of mine to be one of the 2 Youth Representatives of the Micronesian Youth Services Network's Board of Directors.
I was appointed more than a year ago during MYSN's 4th Annual Conference in which I was given the privilege to be the Youth Speaker. It was my first time sharing to 200-some people what I had concealed for 15 years. And in exchange for my story, they stood up and clapped, as if to say in unison, "You've come far."
From the abusive past I endured to the time I found the courage to seek refuge and live in Sanctuary, Inc shelters for 2 years, I have grown to become someone with a purpose. Being a Youth Rep does not require an "above-average" intellect. However, the ability to identify needs, willingness to build on weakness(es) and creative actions allow long lasting improvements rather than a quick fix.
I am aware that my knowledge in areas concerning laws and policies are not as rich as everyone else. I am young. But I have opinions, concerns and ideas. I have made my membership as a way of learning in hopes that I can continue youth advocacy and share it with a younger generation in due time.
I have been taught by a woman, whose passion, wisdom, perseverance and strength I DEEPLY admire, that it is a PRIVILEGE to work with the youth. The tables have turned and it is now my move. As others have been so generous and kind in mine, I have the ability to make a difference in someone's life. It sounds cliche... but the sense of fulfillment is my ultimate compensation.
And because of this, I continue to grow.
Wow! Your board is lucky to have you. What would you say to another young person to encourage them to step up to the plate?
ReplyDeleteKat, It is even more "rare" to have a network/coalition have a young person on their Board. What would encourage other young people to participate?
ReplyDeleteI can't believe it is already September! At least it isn't quite Labor Day yet. So what do we remember from summer? What is our picture post card? Remember those?
ReplyDeleteWe had our nephew Darby visit and saw the King Tut exhibit at the DeYoung Museum in San Francisco as well as the Cal Academy of Sciences. I think he enjoyed it but not as much as his electronics - war games this time.
What stands out for you?