Encourage Young Professionals to Serve on Boards

I was recently asked by a young attorney, age 25, to meet and talk with him about first-time volunteerism. His law firm encourages nonprofit board participation. As he was someone who has never served on a board, I was expecting a variety of questions from him. I love to mentor and especially enjoy talking to a different generation about serving institutions. It is very important that all of us share our ideas and experiences with others.

The attorney asked several important questions, including:

1. Do I have to make a mandatory $5,000 or more annual gift?
2. What is expected of me with respect to time of service per month?
3. What are the functions expected of me as a board member?
4. What type of board should I serve on at first?
5. Should I expect to serve on a board that doesn't have term limits?

It was apparent to me that I had to start at Board Service 101. I asked him what his personal passion was in life. While I knew he understood the concept of time, talent and treasure, he needed to focus on service where he would maximize his engagement. I knew he loved sports — especially iron man races. He worked out all of the time. We talked about organizations that were sports-related and served younger populations of those in need.

I connected him with a community leader in the sports arena. He and I previously served on a new foundation as volunteers. No one knows more about board opportunities in the sports realm than my connection.

As the attorney also asked how many boards he should serve on, I told him less is more. I know his wonderful parents, and I am certain he will have a long and positive career as a community volunteer.