Nonprofit Leadership Initiative’s Board Connect events help community members interested in volunteering at a leadership level connect with nonprofits that have opportunities to serve. Kristin Cates attended several Board Connect events and shares her experience.

By Kristin Cates, Marketing Coordinator, PALS Program

Ever since attending the first Board Connect event, I’ve found more and more meaningful ways to be a bigger part of the community in which I live and work. Each event featured nonprofits from various industries, so I was able to pinpoint which ones called out to me in terms of my own strengths and interests.

Kristin Cates

I knew many of the nonprofits by name, but still learned so much and was able to speak candidly with them about how I might be a beneficial part of their board or committees. I was also able to learn about new nonprofits and get the inside scoop on new initiatives and programs that were happening right in my backyard.

Personally, I’ve found several different ways to support nonprofits in board/committee roles through the Board Connect events. After attending the event featuring nonprofits in the diversity and inclusion space in particular, I networked with some board members at Rainbow Over Wisconsin. I shared my interest in diversity and equity initiatives as well as my marketing and events experience, and they saw a good fit for me on the Pride Alive event committee. I contributed to that committee for a year and saw the wonderful things they were doing behind the scenes.

After experiences like these, one can see how much work truly goes into making a difference in your community. I think experiences like these are mutually beneficial–I’m able to build on leadership skills and offer my expertise, all while assisting an organization in fulfilling their mission.

I recommend these events to everyone–it’s such a great way to dig deeper into your own personal and professional development. Our community nonprofits are working hard at making our communities a better place. So why not sign on to be a part of it? These events make it easier to find a perfect fit, too. If you go in with a good idea of what you’re passionate about, you can seek out those nonprofits and offer your professional guidance. Chances are, they are looking for someone that can do what you do!

Nonprofit Leadership Initiative’s next Board Connect event is Nov. 14, 5 – 7 p.m. at Fox Cities Stadium. Learn about 12 different nonprofits while enjoying complimentary food and beverages. Registration appreciated.