Search for Young Professionals Board Members

AALR Young Professionals Board (YPB)

The AALR Young Professionals Board is seeking passionate emerging leaders who want to support AALR’s mission of empowering Black/African-American youth and young adults through education, leadership development, and healing-centered programming.

We are looking for individuals who are committed to making a difference and who have experience working in or alongside communities of color.

The Young Professionals Board brings together early-career professionals, recent graduates, and community advocates who want to contribute their skills, networks, and leadership to strengthen AALR’s impact.

Ideal Candidates

We are seeking individuals who:

• Have experience working in communities of color or in community-based organizations
• Are passionate about youth empowerment, education, and community advocacy
• Are interested in contributing their professional skills to nonprofit leadership
• Are eager to collaborate with a network of driven young professionals

Professionals from diverse industries are encouraged to apply, including:

• STEM
• Healthcare & Medicine
• Finance & Law
• Marketing & Communications
• Skilled Trades
• Education and Social Services

Board Member Expectations

• Meet fundraising goals and support outreach efforts
• Attend monthly Young Professionals Board meetings
• Participate in AALR events and initiatives
• Serve as an ambassador for AALR within your personal and professional networks

Application Materials

If you are interested in joining the Young Professionals Board, please submit:

• Resume or CV
• A brief description of the significant skills or experiences you would bring to the board
• A short response to the question: What do you hope to gain from serving on the Young Professionals Board?
• Two professional references

Eligibility

• Ages 23–40
• Must reside in the Greater Chicago Area (Will, DuPage, or Cook Counties)

Roles

President - Leads the YPB and liaises with AALR’s Board of Directors.

• Leading and facilitating monthly YPB meetings.
• Setting meeting agendas and ensuring productive discussions.
• Aligning YPB initiatives with AALR’s overall mission, programs, and strategic priorities.
• Holding members accountable for fundraising commitments and board participation expectations.
• Monitoring progress toward annual goals related to fundraising, outreach, and mentorship.

Programs & Events Chair - Owns the execution of YPB-planned fundraising events, volunteer events, and networking mixers.

• Leading the planning and coordination of fundraising and networking events.
• Organizing social and community engagement events such as Happy Hour mixers, Giveback Nights, and volunteer opportunities.
• Managing event logistics, including venue coordination, timelines, and volunteer support.
• Ensuring events support fundraising goals and increase community awareness of AALR programs.

Outreach & Recruitment Chair - Recruits YPB members and builds community partnerships.

• Recruiting new YPB members from diverse industries and backgrounds.
• Cultivating relationships with community organizations, companies, and professional networks.
• Supporting member onboarding and ensuring new members understand expectations and opportunities.
• Identifying partnership opportunities that strengthen AALR’s visibility and impact.

Marketing & Communications Chair - Manages YPB social media, newsletters, and public awareness campaigns.

• Managing YPB-related social media content and campaign messaging.
• Creating and distributing newsletters or updates about YPB initiatives and events.
• Promoting fundraising campaigns, events, and volunteer opportunities.
• Helping increase awareness of AALR programs and engagement among young professionals.

General Members - Attend monthly YPB meetings and support the Chairs with tasks.

• Supporting fundraising efforts and meeting the annual give/get commitment.
• Participating in events, volunteer opportunities, and mentorship initiatives.
• Promoting AALR’s mission within their personal and professional networks.