Volunteer-to-Board Member Advancement PolicyTo ensure a balanced, experienced, and objective Board of Directors, Love Beyond Autism has established a structured advancement process for all board candidates, including family members of current board or staff members.
1.Initial Volunteer Requirement
a. All individuals interested in joining the board must first volunteer within the organization for a minimum period of one year. This period allows individuals to demonstrate commitment to the mission and develop a comprehensive understanding of Love Beyond Autism’s programs and goals.
b. Volunteers must contribute actively in program or operational roles, as assigned by the Volunteer Coordinator or Program Director.
2.Evaluation Period
a. During this one-year period, the volunteer’s contributions, reliability, and alignment with the organization’s mission will be periodically reviewed.
b. For any volunteer who is a family member of current staff or board members, the evaluation will be conducted by Delbra Sturdivant, the Founder, to avoid potential conflicts of interest.
3.Eligibility for Board Consideration
a. After completing the one-year volunteer requirement, individuals interested in board positions may formally express interest.
b. All candidates will go through an evaluation process conducted by the
Founder, with input from existing board members, to assess the candidate’s suitability for board responsibilities, commitment to the organization, and potential contributions.
c. For candidates with a family member on the board, additional consideration will be given to potential conflicts of interest and the need for diverse perspectives on the board.
4.Family Member Involvement
a. To maintain an objective and diverse board, family members of current board or staff members may not exceed one-third of the board’s total composition.
b. Family members of current board or staff members must complete the
volunteer requirement and evaluation process as outlined, with no
exceptions to ensure impartiality.
5.Approval
a. Final approval for board appointments rests with the current board
members, following the completion of the advancement process.
b. All board appointments are made based on the best interests of Love
Beyond Autism, prioritizing candidates who show a strong commitment to the organization’s mission and who contribute unique skills and
perspectives.
This policy is effective immediately and applies to all potential board candidates, including relatives of current board members, staff, or other affiliated individuals.
