Board President at Shady Hollow Assisted Riding

Posted: 09/03/2024

Job Description: Board President - Shady Hollow Assisted Riding

Position Title: Board President
Location: Birdsboro, PA (Remote and On-Site)
Reports To: Board of Directors
Term: 3 Years (with the option for renewal)

Organization Overview:

Shady Hollow Assisted Riding is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing therapeutic riding opportunities for individuals with physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges. Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for our riders through equine-assisted activities, fostering personal growth, independence, and a sense of community.

Position Overview:

The Board President of Shady Hollow Assisted Riding serves as the chief volunteer leader and is responsible for leading the Board of Directors in fulfilling the organization's mission. The Board President works closely with the Executive Director and other board members to ensure the organization's goals are met, provides strategic leadership, and represents the organization in the community.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Leadership & Governance:

    • Preside over all board meetings, ensuring effective organization, clear agendas, and productive discussions.

    • Lead the Board of Directors in setting and achieving the strategic goals of Shady Hollow Assisted Riding.

    • Foster a positive and collaborative board culture, encouraging active participation and diverse perspectives.

    • Ensure the board's compliance with all legal and fiduciary responsibilities.

    • Oversee the development, approval, and implementation of organizational policies and procedures.

  • Strategic Planning:

    • Guide the board in the development and implementation of the organization's long-term strategic plan.

    • Monitor progress toward strategic goals and make adjustments as necessary.

    • Ensure alignment of board activities with the organization's mission and vision.

    • In collaboration with Treasurer and Finance Committee, ensure that all expenses, including but not limited to Payroll Expenses, are appropriate for our financial goals, financial status, and relative comparative benchmarks.

  • Community & Public Relations:

    • Serve as a spokesperson and advocate for Shady Hollow Assisted Riding within the community, along with Executive Director, Program Director, and Marketing Committee as appropriate

    • Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including donors, volunteers, partners, and the broader community.

    • Represent the organization at community events, conferences, and meetings along with Executive Director, Program Director, and Marketing Committee as appropriate

  • Board Development & Evaluation:

    • Lead the recruitment, orientation, and development of new board members.

    • Ensure ongoing education and development opportunities for board members.

    • Conduct regular evaluations of board performance and effectiveness, providing feedback and guidance as needed.

    • Facilitate the transition of leadership by mentoring the Vice President and other board members.

  • Partnership with Administrative Team:

    • Work in close partnership with all Directors to support and enhance the organization's operations and programs. (Program Director, PATH Director, Equine Director, and PATH Director)

    • Provide guidance, support, and feedback to the Executive Director, ensuring alignment with board directives.

    • Regularly review the performance of the Executive Director, providing constructive feedback and setting annual goals.

Qualifications:

  • Demonstrated experience in nonprofit leadership, governance, or board service.

  • Strong understanding of the roles and responsibilities of a board president in a nonprofit setting.

  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.

  • Ability to inspire and motivate board members, volunteers, and staff.

  • Proven track record of fundraising and donor engagement.

  • Strategic thinker with the ability to guide the organization toward long-term success.

  • Passion for Shady Hollow's mission and a commitment to serving individuals with physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges.

  • Knowledge of equine-assisted activities and therapeutic riding (preferred but not required).

Time Commitment:

  • The Board President role requires a commitment of approximately 10-15 hours per month, with additional time during fundraising events and strategic planning sessions.

  • Attendance at a minimum of 75% of board and executive meetings

Compensation:

  • This is a volunteer position with no financial compensation. However, the Board President will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of individuals in the community and contribute to the growth and success of Shady Hollow Assisted Riding.