Nonprofit board member

Background

The Breastfeeding Center for Greater Washington’s mission is to support families from pregnancy through the transitions of early parenthood with relationship-based care, evidence-based instruction and resources, and integrative health services for lactation and postpartum. We strive to meet our mission by offering one-on-one lactation consultations with IBCLCs, private and group mental health counseling, parent support groups, and prenatal and postnatal group classes with instructors from a variety of professional backgrounds. Additionally, we operate a breastfeeding supply boutique and a milk depot to further support our clients. As we grow and evolve, our vision for The Center is to build a board and staff that reflects the diverse city in which we’re located. We look forward to welcoming board members with a variety of life experiences and identities so that we can be sure we are effectively and competently serving anyone and everyone who needs our services, including folks of color, folks of all genders, family structures, socioeconomic backgrounds and faiths (or lack thereof). If this resonates with you, we’d love to hear from you!

Overview

The Board of Directors of the Breastfeeding Center of Greater Washington provides strategic vision for the organization, oversees the work of the Executive Director, guides policy development for the non-profit, raises funds for operating costs, as well as planning for succession and growth. 

Expectations of Board Members 

  • Represent the organization in the greater Washington, DC community.

  • Understand BCGW’s mission, objectives, and programs and provide oversight of program planning and evaluation.

  • Help communicate and promote BCGW mission and programs to the community.

  • Become familiar with BCGW finances, budget, and financial/resource needs, approving and providing oversight of the annual budget and audit.

  • Identify and engage potential funders on behalf of BCGW and solicit donations for special events as needed. 

  • Understand and comply with the policies and procedures of BCGW.

  • Financially support BCGW in a manner commensurate with one’s ability.

  • Perform an annual performance review of the Executive Director.

  • Identify potential new board members and volunteers.

  • Attend and participate in meetings on a regular basis, and special events as able.

  • Serve on ad-hoc committees as necessary.

  • Represent BCGW to stakeholders, acting as an ambassador for the organization 

  • Ensure BCGW’s commitment to a diverse board and staff that reflects the community that BCGW serves

Each Director is expected to fulfill these responsibilities based on his or her experience and skills.

Length of Term

Directors commit to serving for a term of two years. The number of terms is unlimited, but additional terms must be approved by two-thirds of the board.  

Meetings and Time Commitment

  • The Board of Directors meets monthly virtually for 1 hour, and quarterly for 2 hours. 

  • The time commitment required from board members is 4-10 hours per month. 

  • Directors are invited to attend all special events held by the Breastfeeding Center

  • Directors may be asked to attend special meetings, beyond the monthly Board meeting, with various stakeholders as needed.

Qualifications

Ideal candidates will have the following qualifications:

  • Professional or personal experience in a field that aligns with the Breastfeeding Center’s mission (e.g., healthcare, human services)

  • A commitment to and understanding of BCGW’s mission and vision 

  • Ability to cultivate relationships with diverse professionals

  • Personal commitment to supporting a person’s right and choice to breastfeed

  • Experience with breastfeeding, either as a breastfeeding parent, partner, or support person

  • Currently, we’re focusing on folks who have a background in perinatal healthcare (midwives, pediatricians, OB/GYNs, other care providers) and those with a background in human resources. We are also actively recruiting a Board Treasurer.

Service on The Center’s Board of Directors is without compensation, except for reimbursement of expenses. 

To apply please email your resume and a little bit about yourself to Gina Caruso at gina@breastfeedingcenter.org.