Vermont Center for Independent Living
Overview of Organization
We are people with disabilities working together for dignity, independence and civil rights. Together we build communities:
– In which we can achieve our full human and civil rights and equal access to services and opportunities;
– That have available ongoing resources and options for independent living; and
– In which we can realize our power to control and direct our own lives.
We join together to celebrate our diversity and our common goal for the full inclusion of all persons in the lives of our communities.
Mission Area: Human Services (children/youth/adult/senior)
Size of Organization: $1M – $5M
Position Overview
Position Purpose
Board members of VCIL are volunteers who guide the strategic direction of the organization, ensure strong governance, and advocate for the mission and vision of independent living. They serve as ambassadors in the community while helping the organization remain financially and ethically strong.
Responsibilities
Mission Stewardship: Uphold and promote VCIL’s mission, vision, and values.
Governance: Establish, review, and monitor organizational policies, strategic direction, and compliance with bylaws.
Financial Oversight: Approve the annual budget, review financial reports, and ensure responsible stewardship of resources.
Executive Director Oversight: Hire, support, and evaluate the Executive Director.
Fundraising & Resource Development: Encouraged to make an annual financial contribution, and help connect VCIL to potential donors, partners, and resources.
Advocacy & Ambassadorship: Represent VCIL positively in the community and advocate for disability rights and inclusion.
Board Engagement:
– Attend quarterly board meetings via Zoom.
– Participate in monthly committee meetings via Zoom.
– Prepare in advance by reviewing meeting materials.
– Serve on at least one committee.
Ethical Commitment: Maintain confidentiality, disclose and avoid conflicts of interest, and uphold VCIL’s values.
Qualifications
- Commitment to VCIL’s mission and vision.
- Willingness to advocate for disability rights and inclusion.
- Ability to collaborate with diverse groups of people.
- Willingness to devote time and energy to board and committee meetings, preparation, and organizational activities.
- Experience in nonprofit governance, finance, fundraising, disability advocacy, or community leadership (preferred but not required).
- Experience and lived experience with disability is a plus
Term of Service
Board members serve a three-year term, with eligibility for renewal according to VCIL bylaws.
Time Commitment
- Quarterly board meetings (approximately 2 hours each, via Zoom).
• Monthly committee meetings (approximately 2 hour each, via Zoom).
• Additional time for preparation, special projects, or advocacy as needed.
Desired Skills: General Board Governance, Nonprofit Financials, Fundraising/Development, Legal, HR, Marketing/Communications, Advocacy/Policy
Additional Information
Current # of Board Members: 9
Carries liability insurance?: Yes
Carries D&O liability insurance?: Yes
Time Expectations: Quarterly 2 hour meetings, Committee meetings 2 hours per month.
Meeting Frequency: Other
Meeting Location: Remote
Length of Term (in years): 3
Financial contribution required?: No
Service on committee required?: Yes