Board of Directors - Dress for Success Seattle

Overview of DFSS

Dress for Success Seattle (DFSS) is a nonprofit organization supporting a diverse community of women, including trans, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming people to claim their own power and achieve economic independence through DFSS provided programs and services including a network of support, professional attire, and development tools.

Our vision is a world where women do not live in poverty. We strive for a world where all women are financially independent, are treated with dignity and respect, and are directly impacting their lives and those of their families. We aspire to a world that fully harnesses the power of women and recognizes their role in economic sustainability.

Role Description

DFSS is seeking applicants to serve on our board of directors. We are a healthy 501(c)(3) with a growing base of support. The DFSS board works to provide mission-based leadership and strategic governance for the organization and is considered a “working board”. Board members support the organization with hands-on, practical contributions, engage with our community in tangible ways, support fundraising and awareness campaigns, and attend and recruit attendees for fundraising events.

Role Qualifications

We acknowledge that board service is a privilege often limited to individuals who are socially advantaged, based on their gender, ethnic background, sexual orientation, or race. While we value past board experience, we also value a board composition that reflects those who should be empowered and entrusted with the stewardship of the organization. If you are passionate about our work, interested in investing your time and experience in our organization, and value growth and learning, we encourage all applications, regardless of previous experience.

We are seeking applicants who complement and expand the skills, professional backgrounds, and lived experiences of our existing board members. While fundraising and HR expertise are our primary needs currently, we encourage all individuals from traditionally underserved populations to apply.

Service Specifics

Board members commit to the following terms:

• Volunteer for a 2-year term with the possibility of renewal for 6 years.
• Regularly attend board meetings which happen up to 10 times a year.
• Serve on and/or chair at least one committee (ex. Executive, Governance, Internal Affairs, External Affairs).
• Spend an average of 6 to 10 hours a month doing board work: attending regular meetings, participating in committee work, and being an ambassador in the community.
• Assist with fundraising, including sponsorships, general donations, ticket sales to fundraisers, silent auction item procurement, and more as needed.
• Responsible for a contribution equivalent to a minimum of $2,500 annually through financial, time-bound/volunteering, and/or in-kind contributions in an equal amount.

Application Details

To apply, please submit an APPLICATION HERE.

Priority deadline for consideration is Monday April 1, 2024. However, we will continue to review all applications received through Monday April 8, 2024. For more information, or for any questions, please feel free to email exec@dfsseattle.org.

Board Service Description

When it comes to serving on a non-profit board, especially one that operates as a “working board” there are several key expectations for board members. These expectations ensure the organization’s effectiveness, mission alignment, and overall success.

1. Compliance and Legal Standards: Board members must adhere to all legal requirements and regulations applicable to non-profit organizations. This includes understanding their fiduciary duties, avoiding conflicts of interest, and ensuring transparency in financial matters.
2. Regular Board Meeting Attendance: Consistent participation in board meetings is crucial. Board members should attend meetings promptly, actively engage in discussions, and contribute to decision-making processes. Their input helps shape the organization’s direction.
3. Commitment to Fundraising: Non-profits rely on fundraising efforts to sustain their operations. Board members actively support fundraising initiatives by making personal contributions, leveraging their networks, and participating in fundraising events.
4. Committee Involvement: Board members are willing to serve on committees or even lead them. Committees handle specific tasks such as finance, governance, marketing, or program development. Active committee participation enhances the board’s effectiveness.
5. Leveraging Personal and Professional Networks: Board members use their connections to benefit the organization. Whether it is introducing potential donors, collaborating with other organizations, or securing resources, their networks play a vital role.
6. Preparedness and Active Participation: Arriving at board meetings fully prepared is essential. Board members always review materials beforehand, ask questions, and actively engage in discussions. Their collective input drives informed decision-making.