businesses on boards - join the chamber

Volunteering is one of the most well-known, widespread and popular ways that businesses have found to form relationships with their communities. Volunteerism is relatively easy to organise and has some obvious benefits for both parties. But as many community groups are discovering, some forms of volunteerism are more useful than others. One of the most meaningful and innovative ways your business can engage with your community is by encouraging your staff to join a community group Board or Committee of Management.

Every community group has a governance structure of some sort – and most of these are in desperate need of new members. Small community groups in particular are finding it increasingly difficult to attract and retain members to revitalise their Boards, add new skills and ensure they meet the demands for greater efficiency and accountability.

Businesses have a huge amount to offer in helping these groups to meet their obligations and strengthen their governance structures. Volunteering for a Board or Committee of Management can be harder than other forms of volunteerism and requires much more than just a token contribution; but it can a have real, long-lasting impact on the long-term health and future of a community group.

What your business has to offer
Your staff members can bring to a community group Board or Committee of Management:
New and highly valuable skills (IT, legal, marketing, financial management, strategic planning, etc.) New perspectives Expanded networks Increased influence Knowledge of business disciplines

What your business stands to gainYour business stands to benefit in a range of ways, including: Better standing within the community, derived from your visible demonstration of community values and involvement A better understanding of the community in which you operate Strengthened connections with the community, leading to an increase in influence and profile Happier staff, leading to staff satisfaction, retention and easier recruitment An expansion of knowledge, skills and contacts In addition, your staff members will gain a range of benefits that may be of enormous use in their current and future work and social lives, including; New and deepened skills (e.g. fundraising, advocacy, etc.) Governance experience Knowledge of the not-for-profit sector Deeper knowledge of the area in which the community organisation is operating (e.g. the arts, sport, etc.) Personal satisfaction and a feeling of "making a difference" The opportunity to exercise power and contribute to the success of a community organisation Networking opportunities New friendships Opportunity to contribute work skills to a different arena Growth in self-confidence

john mason
http://www.johnmason.com.au
http://www.helloworld.com/john-mason
http://www.quality.com.au