Three Big Benefits from One Powerful Leadership Move

The Red Cross mascot, Buddy Blood Drop

For nearly 30 years, I’ve had the privilege of serving on a variety of boards, from Toastmasters to my local HOA to the American Red Cross. While I’m far from being an expert, these experiences have helped me grow as a leader in ways I never expected. In this post, I want to share my personal journey into board leadership and why I believe it’s such a powerful way to develop your leadership skills while making a meaningful impact in your community.

Why Non-Profit Boards?

Serving on a non-profit board isn’t just about donating your time—it’s about learning new leadership skills, working with passionate people, and creating change in areas that align with your values. I’ve always felt that boards are a unique opportunity for personal growth because they allow you to step into a leadership role without the same authority (or constraints) you might have in a corporate environment.

Whether you’re working with volunteers, managing fundraising efforts, or leading strategic decisions, board leadership teaches you to inspire and guide people from all walks of life—often without the ability to “tell them what to do.” It's an exercise in servant leadership, where you focus on encouraging others and working together to achieve a shared goal.

The Three Big Benefits of Serving on a Non-Profit Board

1. Professional Development: Serving on a board offers the chance to develop skills that transfer to any leadership role, such as communication, decision-making, and managing a team of volunteers. It’s also an opportunity to dive deep into an area you care about, like community service, education, or healthcare.

2. Community Impact: When you serve on a board, you're not just putting in hours for the sake of it. You’re impacting your community, whether that means helping to raise funds for a cause, organizing volunteer efforts, or advocating for important issues. The more you invest in the organization, the more you’ll see the positive effects on those it serves.

3. Leadership Growth: Perhaps the most important benefit of serving on a board is the chance to grow as a leader. Whether you start in a committee role or take on a position like president, the skills you develop on a non-profit board help you become a more effective leader in all areas of your life.

Getting Started: How to Serve on a Non-Profit Board

It all starts with identifying where your passions lie. If you’re interested in a specific cause, start by volunteering for that organization or attending events. I’ve always found that the more I got involved, the more I learned about the organization’s needs and opportunities. Many boards are looking for passionate, committed individuals who are willing to put in the time and effort.

You don’t have to start as a board member. Serving on a committee or volunteering your time at an event is a great first step. It gives you a taste of the organization’s culture and mission and can also be a steppingstone to board membership. Many boards even have committees that are open to the public—so that’s an easy way to dip your toes in without making a huge commitment right away.

The Challenges of Board Leadership

Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing. One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced on boards is balancing the time commitment. Serving on a board can feel like a part-time job, especially if you’re in a leadership role. It’s crucial to understand the expectations before you sign up. If you’re working full-time, have family commitments, or run your own business like I do, make sure you ask the board leadership what the time commitment will look like before you take on a role.

Another challenge is accountability. Since everyone on a non-profit board is a volunteer, it can sometimes be tough to get everyone on the same page. I’ve had experiences where I had to lead by inspiration, not by authority. You can’t just tell someone what to do—especially if they’re also juggling other commitments. That’s when the true art of leadership comes in: inspiring and motivating people to do their best work without formal authority.

My Personal Board Journey

I’ve always believed that board service isn’t just about what you do for the organization—it’s also about what you learn along the way. For example, when I first joined Toastmasters, I was a terrible secretary. I didn’t take notes (oops!) but I quickly learned that serving in that role—despite my mistakes—taught me valuable lessons in responsibility and accountability. Eventually, I grew into a leadership role where I helped others achieve their personal goals, which helped me become a better leader myself.

Similarly, my time with the Red Cross has been an eye-opening experience. I've learned so much about serving a community, managing a team of volunteers, and guiding the organization toward its mission, all while working with people who are passionate about the cause. It’s not always easy, but it's incredibly rewarding.

This week at the Red Cross Board meeting, I was deeply touched when I received a shadow box containing Buddy Blood Drop, a plush toy that serves as a mascot for Red Cross Blood Services. It was a gesture of appreciation for my time as board chair, and while it wasn’t necessary, it made me reflect on how important it is for boards to show gratitude to their volunteers.

Recognition, no matter how small, can make a world of difference. It’s a reminder that the work we do is valued and appreciated. As leaders, one of the most powerful things we can do is recognize the efforts of those who dedicate their time and energy to a cause. It’s not about the token gifts—it’s about showing that their contributions matter, that their time is valued, and that they’re an essential part of the organization’s success.

Final Thoughts: Is Board Service Right for You?

If you’ve ever thought about serving on a non-profit board, I encourage you to take the leap. There’s no one right way to get involved. Whether it’s volunteering, joining a committee, or eventually becoming a board member, the opportunities to grow are endless. And, as I’ve learned, the relationships you build and the leadership skills you develop will help you in all aspects of your life.

Remember, it’s all about passion and commitment. If you find a cause that speaks to you, get involved. You won’t regret it!

If you'd like a little more on this topic, check out our latest episode on our Leaderish Podcast, where Regina and I dive deep.