Board Member Responsibilities

• Provide vision and leadership to guide the church in the pursuit of its mission and long-term vision.

• Prepare for and attend monthly Board meetings, Congregational meetings and forums, and the annual Board retreat.  

• Develop and monitor policies that include setting annual board priorities.

• Hold legal and fiduciary responsibility, and ensure adequate funding to pursue the mission and annual vision of ministry.

• Remain visible and accessible to members of the Congregation in both structured and unstructured venues, actively engaging members in conversation about issues facing the church and the Board, and soliciting input and questions. When members have concerns or questions related to ministry, encourage members to connect directly with the Senior Minister or the ministry team.

• Monitor compliance of policies.

• Adhere to the Board members’ code of conduct.

• Acting in partnership with the other Board members, having healthy conflict to come to shared agreements so all the members can speak with one voice.

• Serve on one or more Board Committees, including Nominating, Policy, Linkage, and ad hoc committees.

• Model generosity as a church leader by being willing to assist with fundraising activities and by making an annual pledge.

• Participate in activities that strengthen relationships with stakeholders, including current and potential members and friends; professional staff; programs and church committees and teams; the Unitarian Universalist Association, Pacific Western Region; and the neighborhood and wider community.

• Become familiar with the church’s governing documents (e.g., Bylaws, Policies) and ensure the church is governed effectively and according to these documents.