Louth Volunteer Centre is to run a training programme for people interested in joining the boards or committees of local charities and voluntary organiations.
Being a board member of a charity or community or voluntary sector organisation can be a wonderful opportunity to share skills, experience, and perspective for the good of our community. It can be hugely rewarding and offer opportunities for personal and professional development.
Voluntary board members play an essential role in the not-for-profit sector, responsible for public benefit; governance; oversight and strategic direction.
However, one of the biggest challenges for not-for-profit organisations nationally is a lack of volunteers to become board members.
This is also a challenge for the 400 or more not for profit organisations in County Louth, many of whom provide essential services to our local communities.
In response to this challenge Louth Volunteer Centre are, for the third year running, delivering the “Empowering You Empowering Our Community” course to equip people who have little or no experience of sitting on a board or committee with the knowledge and confidence to step into such a role.
Margaret, who completed the programme said “I found the programme very beneficial and informative. It was excellent in providing an overall description of what being a board member involves.”
another participant, Gavin, said the programme was “… so professional and worthwhile, a great way to meet new people and connect or reconnect with your community.”
Several participants have since progressed to leadership roles in community and voluntary organisations in Louth and further afield.
As the “Empowering You, Empowering Our Community” programme was oversubscribed when it was last held in October, Louth Volunteer Centre are urging those interested to get in touch as soon as possible to book a spot.
Spaces are now available to new applicants and the team are particular interested in hearing from the business community that would like to boost their CSR programmes by empowering employees to volunteer on local boards and committees.
The programme starts on the 8th March over Zoom and will be held in 6 bite-sized lunch time sessions to facilitate ease of access for employee volunteers.
If you are interested email Kayleigh@volunteerlouth.ie.
