Kevin Walker, President and CEO, Northwest Area Foundation

I have had the privilege of serving on Philanthropy Northwest’s board of directors since 2010, and have found it to be a remarkable leadership development experience. Our board, like the broader membership, is made up of engaged, passionate leaders who care deeply about the communities they serve. As the current nominating and governance committee chair, I am pleased to share that for the first time in its history, Philanthropy Northwest is seeking nominations directly from our members for board candidates to be elected this fall.
 
These are exciting times at Philanthropy Northwest. Our team, network, balance sheet and impact are healthy and growing. We are in the middle of refreshing our long-term strategic framework for supporting the philanthropic sector in its work to build vibrant, equitable and inclusive communities.
 
The Northwest is a big, diverse region and Philanthropy Northwest serves all of it. As such, we are continuously building and renewing our board. Diversity has many facets, including but not limited to: race, gender, organization size, type of philanthropic entity, role within the organization, geographic location and urban/rural setting. Right now, we are especially seeking candidates who bring us the perspective of:

• Diverse racial and ethnic communities
• Montana, Idaho and Wyoming-based organizations
• Trustees of philanthropic organizations

The board of directors will consider all nominations and, if not selected for this round, candidates will remain in the pipeline to be considered at another time.

Kevin Walker (top right photo) and fellow board members Sammye Pokryfki, Susan Anderson and Doug Stamm (center photo) at Philanthropy Northwest's Local Matters: Montana convening last month.

Qualifications:
We seek philanthropic leaders who are committed to building strong, equitable and inclusive communities. Candidates must be Philanthropy Northwest members.
 
Responsibilities include:

• Uphold the basic legal and fiduciary responsibilities of a nonprofit board of directors.
• Be additive to the board culture by bringing a strategic perspective to our evolving organization.
• Promote and serve as an ambassador of Philanthropy Northwest and the broader community, including attending Philanthropy Northwest conferences and events.
• Maintain active membership in Philanthropy Northwest.
• Attend at least 75% of board and committee meetings in person (preferable) or by phone.
• Serve on at least one board committee.
• Provide leadership in securing financial gifts to support our work.
• Make a personal contribution at a level that is meaningful to you.

To nominate yourself or someone else, please submit this form by Friday, August 7.
 
Philanthropy Northwest will present a slate of board members to be voted on at our annual membership meeting in November in Bellingham, Wash. Thank you for your thoughtful nominations and ongoing contributions to our network!