Associate Board Member

Housing Opportunity Development Corporation is establishing a new Associate Board beginning in 2026 and is seeking initial members who are

1) passionate about affordable housing and overall equity in housing opportunity AND/OR

2) interested in Associate Board leadership opportunities

AND lives in or near Chicago's north suburbs (our service area; see hodc.org for more details).

PURPOSE AND MISSION

The HODC Associate Board is a volunteer auxiliary board composed of emerging leaders and young professionals who are committed to supporting HODC's mission of creating quality, affordable housing opportunities. The Associate Board serves to engage the next generation of community leaders while supporting HODC's fundraising and outreach objectives.

OBJECTIVES

The Associate Board shall:

• Promote HODC's mission and programs within the young professional community
• Plan and execute fundraising events and initiatives
• Increase community awareness of affordable housing issues and HODC's solutions
• Develop leadership skills among members while serving HODC's mission
• Create networking and professional development opportunities
• Support the strategic objectives of the Executive Board
• Build a pipeline of future organizational leaders

COMPOSITION AND MEMBERSHIP

Qualifications: Members should be:

• Emerging professionals typically between ages 21-45
• Committed to HODC's mission and affordable housing advocacy
• Able to contribute time, talent, and resources to support HODC
• Enthusiastic about community engagement and volunteerism
• Representative of diverse backgrounds and professional sectors

RESPONSIBILITIES AND EXPECTATIONS

Individual Member Commitments:

• Make an annual financial contribution appropriate to personal capacity
• Attend at least 70% of Associate Board meetings
• Participate actively in at least two Associate Board initiatives annually
• Volunteer for and promote Associate Board events
• Serve as an ambassador for HODC in their professional and social networks

Collective Responsibilities:

• Meet monthly or every other month as determined by the group
• Plan and execute volunteer and fundraising events
• Organize educational and networking events
• Support HODC's broader fundraising and outreach efforts
• Engage in advocacy efforts for affordable housing
• Participate in volunteer opportunities at HODC properties or events

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

HODC will provide opportunities for Associate Board members to:

• Learn about affordable housing development and management
• Develop nonprofit governance and fundraising skills
• Network with Board members and community leaders
• Participate in relevant training and educational programs

RECOGNITION AND ADVANCEMENT

Outstanding Associate Board members may be considered for:

• Leadership roles within the Associate Board
• Appointment to committees of the Board of Directors
• Nomination to the Board of Directors upon meeting eligibility requirements
• Special recognition at HODC events and in communications