Interested in becoming a Board of Director?

Members of the Board of Directors of Safe Harbors of the Finger Lakes, Inc. have a legal and ethical responsibility to ensure that the organization does the best work possible in pursuit of its goals. Board members must believe in the purpose and the mission of Safe Harbors, and act responsibly and prudently as its steward. If you would like to speak to someone to learn more and/or apply, please contact us by clicking this link and submitting the contact form. A board member will be in touch when we receive your information.

Responsibilities include:

• Knowledge and Skills:
  Board members must know and effectively articulate the mission, purpose, goals, policies, and programs of Safe Harbors of the Finger Lakes. They must interpret our values to the community, represent our organization, and act as its spokesperson. They read and understand financial statements and assist the Board in fulfilling its fiduciary responsibilities. They also share their personal and professional areas of expertise with the Board and staff.


• Board Meetings:
  Board members must attend and actively participate in ten Board meetings per year, except in the case of family or business emergency.


• Board Committees:
  Board members must chair and/or participate in at least one Board committee.


• Financial Support:
  Board members agree to make a personal financial contribution of at least $500 annually.


• Fundraising:
  Board members agree to attend and participate in at least one Safe Harbors of the Finger Lakes event each year, and all board members participate in our annual fund drive, making contact with as many potential donors as possible. Board members also try in good faith to obtain various means of support for the organization, such as sponsorships, advertisers, members, speakers, etc.


• Governance:
  Board members contribute to the leadership of Safe Harbors of the Finger Lakes and recommend potential Board members.


• Operations:
  Board members aid in selecting the Executive Director, review their performance annually, and provide direction if needed in accordance with their job description. They partner with the Executive Director to accomplish the mission of Safe Harbors. Board members stay informed about the current activities of Safe Harbors and participate in establishing and enforcing organizational policies and strategic planning activities.


• Ethics:
  Board members must act in the best interests of the organization and excuse themselves from discussions and votes where they may have a conflict of interest. They must maintain confidentiality of all Safe Harbors Board meetings and the personal details discussed at Board meetings.