Thank you for your interest in serving on the Board of Directors of the Unicorn Children’s Foundation (UCF or the Foundation). Whether this is the first time you have considered serving on the board of a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization or you are seeking reappointment, we want you to know that UCF is committed to ensuring you have all the information necessary to make sound decisions. Service on the Board of a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization can be a rewarding experience and an opportunity to be part of life-changing experiences as we create cradle to career pathways to help kids and young adults flourish and help their families navigate the complex journey. Having opened our doors in 1994, UCF is working towards a future where all children’s potential can flourish and that they can be meaningful participants in their communities.
Should you wish to be considered to serve on this board, please complete the Application for Board Appointment below. If you have questions or would like to discuss board service in more detail, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Please find some general information about our organization and this position below. UCF, established in 1994, is committed to providing innovative programs that ensure individuals with neurodiversity are appropriately assisted, supported, and included in least restrictive ways to maximize their full potential. We are working to respond to key gaps in service which include: developing an effective information & referral system; improving timely access to screening, assessment and early diagnosis; reducing gaps in services; increasing amount and improving coordination of funding streams; improving transition practices; increasing employment opportunities; and improving advocacy & futures planning. With the support of the Board of Directors, in 2021-2022, we expect:
200+ individuals with neurodiversity will participate in UCF Employment Programs providing a pathway to careers or entrepreneurship
10 businesses will receive training on successfully engaging neurodiverse employees creating a more accepting and inclusive community
50+ families will participate in family navigation programs to empower them with tools and strategies to help their child flourish
UCF is a not-for-profit organization whose operations are run by a professional team. The Board of Directors is responsible for the governance, policy and overall financial health of UCF. The Board of Directors appoints Executive Officers that comprise an Executive Committee who make recommendations to the Board and handle responsibilities of the Board in the intervals between Board meetings. The Board members are also directly responsible for reviewing the performance of the UCF Chief Executive Officer. Regular meetings of the Board are held quarterly. Special meetings may be called by the President of the Board whenever deemed necessary. No action of the Board is official unless taken at a regular or special meeting. Board Members have authority to govern UCF as a group and have no authority to act as individuals. An agenda will be sent to each member of the Board of Directors prior to the board meeting with member input so that each meeting runs smoothly. All Board actions are recorded in the minutes as the official permanent record of the Board. Policies determined by the Board are reflected in policies and procedures manuals and documents.
Qualifications A. Be an advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion, community-based experiences and UCF. B. Have experience and/or a skill set that adds value to the work of the Board. C. Have the respect of those who you have worked with previously. D. Have a desire to be an active Board member in a non-profit organization. E. Be a team member who can provide solutions and a positive attitude. F. Be a financial contributor to UCF.
Responsibilities A. Uphold the UCF mission and by-laws. B. Establish, review and revise (as necessary) the policies of the UCF. C. Support and evaluate the Chief Executive Officer. D. Attend Board meetings with little interruption and functions where appropriate/available. E. Ensure adequate financial resources for UCF. Protect assets and provide financial oversight. F. In collaboration with staff, participate in long range (5 year) planning for financials and operations. G. Participate in building a competent Board. H. Ensure legal and ethical integrity. I. Enhance the organization’s public standing.
General information A. Applications will be reviewed by the ad-hoc nominating committee of The Unicorn Children’s Foundation, Inc. Interviews will be conducted in March from at least a portion of applications received. Elections will occur at the annual meeting in June. Transition will occur from that date to June 30th. B. Per current bylaws, Board members will serve two-year terms. Official new terms begin on July 1st following election and expire on June 30th of the expiring year. C. The Executive Officers of the Board, who comprise the Executive Committee, will be President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer. Other members are at large members. The by-laws state that Board of Directors shall have no less than three (3) and no more than twenty-one (21) members.
Supplemental information (required): Please attach a copy of your resume/curriculum vitae including any additional information, such as governmental, employment or volunteer experience, honors or awards, please attach a resume or included on a separate sheet of paper.