Interested in becoming a board member of the Vermilion Heritage Foundation?

Vermilion Heritage Foundation Board Member Expectations and Responsibilities:

General Expectations

1. Establish attendance at meetings as a high priority and serve actively on committees as requested by the President. Must attend a minimum of 75% of meetings (maximum of 3 absences per year).

2. Come prepared to discuss the issues and business to be addressed at scheduled meetings, having read the agenda and all background materials relevant to the topics at hand.

3. Support the Fischer’s mission, purposes, goals, policies, and programs, while knowing its strengths and needs.

4. Participate in the annual strategic planning retreat, board self-evaluation programs, and other educational events that enhance board member skills.

5. Cultivate potential donors, volunteers, sponsors, committee members, and future board members.

6. Attend activities and events sponsored by the Fischer whenever possible.

7. Board members must contribute in one or more of the following ways: time (such as volunteering, committee involvement, etc.), treasure (donate, secure funding, grant writing, etc.), or talent (any specific skill or area of knowledge utilized to further the mission).

8. Confidentiality is of the upmost importance. You must keep all Board discussions confidential and always protect the privacy of the organization.

Avoiding Conflicts

1. Serve the Fischer as a whole rather than any special interest group or constituency.

2. Avoid even the appearance of a conflict of interest that might embarrass the board or the Foundation, and disclose any possible conflicts to the board in a timely fashion.

3. Never accept (or offer) favors or gifts from (or to) anyone who does business with the Fischer Theatre.

4. Follow board bylaws/policies and maintain honest and ethical standards.

5. Be mindful of your social media activity and how it could affect the theatre’s public and donor relations.

Fiduciary Responsibility & Fundraising

1. Be an annual donor to the Fischer theatre at a level that is acceptable to you.

2. Faithfully read and understand The Fischer Theatre’s financial statements and otherwise help the board fulfill its fiduciary responsibility. Seek diligently to understand the Fischer Theatre’s budget and finances.

3. Review and approve the annual budget, ensuring the proper financial controls are in place.

4. Participate actively in the Fischer fundraising special events, programs, and activities.