So you're intrigued with the idea of using your hard-earned skills for a good cause but don't know where to start?
Perhaps you're seeking an opportunity to volunteer with an organization with a mission and vision that resonates with your own.
There is a way to match your intention with action at the upcoming BoardDATE, an event for bringing together board members and local non-profit organizations for possible sign up and recruitment.
Stacy Ashton, executive director of Community Volunteer Connections, said the organization often gets calls from people interested in board service but who don't know where to start in doing their research.
"We thought giving people a chance to meet local non-profits would encourage new people to step into community leadership. So far we have a whole range of people with different backgrounds signing up, but they all have in common the desire to give something back to their community."
BoardDate will be held Wednesday, May 18 and is sponsored by Community Volunteer Connections, the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce and the City of Coquitlam.
Ashton said it be like a speed dating event in which 30 potential board directors will be introduced to 30 community organizations.
"We want make as many matches for the community as we can," said Ashton.
Participating organizations include Kidsport, Eagle Ridge Hospital Auxiliary, Place des Arts, Douglas College Foundation and the YMCA of Greater Vancouver.
Among the skills that organizations seek are business communications, accounting, media relations, negotiations, event planning, and fundraising.
A spokesperson for the Tri-Cities Chamber said the business organization is interested in promoting community leadership. "When you serve on a board, you are using your skills and experience for the good of the community, and we all win," stated Dana Strong, the chamber's head of membership and marketing in an email.
BoardDATE is free of charge for people seeking to serve on boards or board committees. To register, visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BoardDATE
However, there is a $50 for participating organization ($35 for members of the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce). Registration is available for organizations at http://business.tricitieschamber.com/events/details/board-date-5284
BoardDATE takes place on Wednesday May 18, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at the Winslow Centre in Coquitlam. For more information, call Ashton at at 604-529-5118 or [email protected]
