Join the NAMI Wake County Board of Directors – Be a Change Maker

Be a Change Maker in Mental Health: Join Our NAMI Wake County Board of Directors

About NAMI Wake County

NAMI Wake County serves residents across Wake County with free mental health support, online groups, resources, and education. We provide support, education, and advocacy to individuals, families, and caregivers living with mental health challenges, to lead better lives. As part of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, we are dedicated to ensuring that people living with mental health conditions know they are not alone.

Our Growth Story: We are experiencing rapid expansion in our programs, reach, and community impact. This growth presents an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic organization at a pivotal moment in its development as we work to expand mental health awareness and support throughout Wake County.

Why Join Our Board Now?

• Be a Change Maker: This is your opportunity to drive systemic change in how our community approaches mental health. Your leadership will help break down barriers, reduce stigma, and create lasting transformation.
• Strategic Timing: As we scale our operations, we need experienced change makers who can help guide our strategic direction and ensure sustainable growth.
• Meaningful Impact: Your expertise will directly influence our ability to serve more individuals and families, creating ripple effects of positive change throughout Wake County.
• Professional Growth: Join a collaborative board environment where change makers unite, your skills are valued, and your professional network can expand.

What We're Looking For

We seek change makers who bring:

• Visionary Leadership: Experience driving transformation in organizations, communities, or systems
• Professional Expertise: Backgrounds in finance, legal, marketing, technology, fundraising, healthcare, social services, or mental health advocacy
• Change Agent Mindset: Passion for challenging the status quo and creating innovative solutions
• Network & Influence: Connections that can open doors for partnerships, funding, and community engagement
• Governance Experience: Understanding of nonprofit board responsibilities and fiduciary duties
• Passion for Mental Health: Genuine commitment to mental health advocacy and reducing stigma in our community
• Lived Experience: Having lived experience with a mental health condition, either personally or through a loved one, is a priority

Board Member Expectations

Time and Financial Commitment:

• Orientation activities (up to 6 hours before the start of the term)
• Monthly board meetings (1.5 hours each)
• One committee assignment (meetings every 1-2 months, depending on the committee)
• Two annual board retreats (2 days total)
• Attendance at community events
• Estimated total: 5-10 hours monthly
• Term: 3 years, with up to 2 consecutive terms
• Annual financial contribution that is personally significant

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic oversight and governance to drive organizational transformation
• Support fundraising through network connections, personal donations, and community outreach
• Participate actively in board discussions and decision-making as a change agent
• Serve as an ambassador for mental health awareness and NAMI Wake County
• Champion innovative approaches to mental health support and education
• Ensure financial sustainability and legal compliance

What We Provide

• Comprehensive board orientation and ongoing education
• Regular updates on organizational performance and impact
• Opportunities to engage directly with our programs and the mental health community
• Professional development through board service and mental health advocacy training
• Connection with other committed community leaders and mental health advocates

Our Board Culture

We seek to foster an environment of:

• Innovation: Change makers driving creative solutions to mental health challenges
• Collaboration: Diverse perspectives fueling transformative ideas
• Efficiency: Well-prepared meetings with clear agendas and follow-up
• Transparency: Open communication about challenges and opportunities
• Impact Focus: Data-driven decision making aligned with our mission of change

Next Steps

Interested candidates will participate in:

• Initial Conversation: Informal discussion about mutual fit and expectations
• Brief Interview: Structured conversation about experience, interests, and board commitment
• Reference Check: Professional and personal references
• Board / Membership Vote: Formal approval and welcome to the board