Droste Mental Health Services Board Opportunities

Droste Mental Health Services (DMHS) is a community centered nonprofit dedicated to providing accessible, affordable, and inclusive psychotherapy and trauma informed counseling to New Yorkers in need. For over 40 years, DMHS has supported individuals and families across the New York metropolitan area through compassionate, culturally responsive care rooted in the belief that healing begins within each person. DMHS also invests in the future of mental health through its Clinical Training Program, equipping the next generation of therapists with rigorous supervision and hands-on experience.

By addressing both immediate mental health needs and long term workforce development, DMHS plays a critical role in strengthening mental health access and equity throughout New York City. Board members who join DMHS have the opportunity to support a longstanding, mission driven organization at a pivotal moment of growth, helping expand access to care and deepen community impact.

Governing Board (Board of Directors)

Purpose

Provide fiduciary oversight, strategic leadership, and resources to ensure DMHS’s long term sustainability and expansion.

Commitments

• Give/Get: $5,000 annually
• Term: Two years, renewable
• Meetings: Attend at least 75% of quarterly board meetings (4 annually)

Roles and Responsibilities

• Governance: Oversee financial health, compliance, and strategic direction
• Fundraising: Contribute personally and leverage networks to secure donations, sponsorships, and institutional partnerships
• Committees: Serve on at least one standing committee such as finance, development, governance, or programs
• Visibility: Attend DMHS’s annual gala and at least one program visit per year
• Expansion: Introduce at least three prospective donors, partners, or advocates annually
• Leadership: Represent DMHS publicly to strengthen credibility and community presence

Success Indicators

• Strong governance and fiduciary compliance
• Achievement or surpassing of fundraising goals
• Consistent engagement in board and committee work
• Strategic guidance that supports staff and organizational growth

Associate Board

Purpose

Engage emerging leaders ages 22-39 to advance DMHS through fundraising, networking, advocacy, and professional skills.

Commitments

• Give/Get: $1,000 annually
• Term: One year, renewable
• Meetings: Monthly meetings with committee involvement across fundraising, events, and advocacy

Roles and Responsibilities

• Fundraising: Support campaigns and contribute to annual fundraising efforts
• Ambassadorship: Promote DMHS across professional and social networks
• Events: Plan and support community initiatives such as panels, service days, and fundraisers
• Communications: Amplify DMHS messaging through social media and advocacy campaigns
• Professional Development: Participate in mentorship, workshops, and engagement with governing board members

Success Indicators

• Fundraising contributions aligned with annual Associate Board goals
• Active participation in events and initiatives throughout the year
• Visible advocacy and community engagement
• Development of a leadership pipeline into future governing roles

Why Join DMHS Leadership?

Joining DMHS leadership offers a meaningful opportunity to expand access to high quality mental health care for New Yorkers who might otherwise go without support. Board service also creates space to build relationships with professionals across healthcare, nonprofit leadership, and philanthropy.

Members gain hands-on experience in governance, fundraising, and community engagement while contributing to a mission that has delivered consistent impact for over four decades.

Which Board Is Right for You?

DMHS offers two distinct pathways for leadership and involvement:

Governing Board

Best suited for individuals ready to take on strategic and fiduciary responsibility. Members make a higher financial commitment, engage deeply in governance and fundraising, and play a central role in shaping the organization’s future.

Associate Board

Designed for emerging leaders or professionals looking to build experience while supporting DMHS through events, outreach, and fundraising. This pathway offers mentorship and exposure to nonprofit leadership, serving as a strong foundation for future governing board service.