For many Catholic professionals, the idea of serving on a board might seem intimidating, over-mystified, or even reserved for those with deep connections or extensive experience. It’s easy to think that board membership is for “other people” — those who have climbed the corporate ladder or who are already entrenched in the nonprofit world. In reality, board service is far more accessible than it may first appear. The truth is, anyone with the right passion, skills, and a heart for service can become a valuable board member. And, for Catholic professionals, serving on boards provides a terrific opportunity to live out the faith in meaningful ways, influencing organizations and communities with the values of the Gospel.
Breaking Down the Mystique of Board Service
At its core, serving on a board is about contributing your knowledge, experience, and perspective to help guide an organization toward its mission. There are many types of boards to choose from—corporate, nonprofit, educational, religious, and more. Each organization’s needs are different, but most boards seek individuals with diverse backgrounds and skills. While legal and financial expertise is often valued, many boards also need members who can offer insights into communications, marketing, strategic planning, and community engagement.
The key to getting started is understanding that board membership is not about knowing everything — it’s about being a willing learner and bringing your unique perspective to the table. Many organizations will provide training or mentorship for new board members, and some may even allow for a probationary period where you can see if the role is a good fit.
How to Get Started
If you’re wondering how to break into board service, here are some common pathways:
- Leverage Your Network: Often, board members are selected through personal recommendations or professional networks. Start by connecting with people who serve on boards, or with leaders in your community, and let them know you’re interested in board opportunities.
- Join a Committee: Many organizations invite new members to serve on committees before offering full board membership. Committees are a great way to get to know the inner workings of an organization and demonstrate your skills and commitment.
- Volunteer: Volunteering with an organization can give you a taste of the board’s culture and needs. Many organizations prioritize volunteers when it comes time to recruit board members.
- Research Opportunities: Look for boards that align with your values and professional expertise. Some board-matching websites or local nonprofit associations often list open board positions.
The Benefits of Board Service
Serving on a board should be primarily about giving, but the reality is with board service everyone involved wins. The benefits of board service extend to the institution, the community, the Catholic Church (when it is one of its sons or daughters serving), and finally to the individual Catholic professional serving on the board.
- For the Institution: A strong board helps an organization stay true to its mission, manage its resources wisely, and make strategic decisions for the future. Your service ensures that organizations are held accountable, effective, and sustainable.
- For the Community: Board members play a pivotal role in creating positive change at the community level. By guiding institutions, Catholic professionals can help shape programs and initiatives that directly impact local residents and families.
- For the Catholic Church: When Catholics serve on boards, the Church’s voice is present in conversations about ethics, virtue, and human dignity. Catholic principles like respect for life, subsidiarity, and solidarity can have a profound impact on an organization’s direction, ensuring decisions reflect Christian values, which in the end are always directed towards the common good.
- For the Catholic Professional: Serving on a board is a form of professional development. It hones leadership, strategic thinking, and decision-making skills. It also provides a unique opportunity to expand your professional network, gain exposure to different industries, and become a respected figure in your community. Most importantly, it offers a way to integrate your faith into your professional life, making your work a form of service to others.
Board Service: Where Leadership Happens
Board service is a powerful avenue for Catholic professionals to be servant leaders, making a difference in their communities while also strengthening their own careers. By offering your time, talent, and faith-driven perspective, you not only contribute to the success of an organization but also ensure that Catholic values are represented in crucial decision-making spaces which impact the culture. Board service is more than just an opportunity—it’s a calling, and one that can enrich both your professional journey and the mission of the Catholic Church.
