With a local board, it becomes easier to:

• Stay focused on shared goals and priorities

• Create continuity, even when volunteers come and go

• Support new initiatives and safely get great ideas off the ground

• Ensure tasks and responsibilities are allocated fairly and realistically

• Care for the community and work satisfaction

Board work isn't about being “on top” but about creating direction, overview, and support so the local chapter works well for all who get involved.

As a board member, you help set the framework for the local chapter’s activities. This can include:

• Deciding which local activities and campaigns to prioritize

• Clarifying roles and responsibilities to keep work manageable

• Following up on decisions and helping maintain a good rhythm

• Being a sounding board for volunteers and initiators

• Contributing to a collaborative culture where more succeed—and no one stands alone

You don’t need to “know it all.” Boards work best when members complement each other and share responsibility.

Board work in a local chapter should fit into everyday life with school, work, family, and other commitments.

Typically, the board meets about once a month.

Some local chapters find quarterly meetings can also work, depending on your needs and level of activity.

The most important thing is:

• Meeting frequency and work style are agreed upon together

• The role can be adjusted to individual time and energy

• You make a plan that’s sustainable for those involved

Between meetings, there might be light follow-up—for example, quick clarifications in chat or small tasks volunteers choose to take on. It doesn’t have to be many hours weekly to make a big impact.

A realistic board member contribution often includes:

• Attending meetings and helping make decisions

• Reading brief materials or agendas beforehand when decisions are needed

• Providing advice, structure, and perspective

• Following up on agreements—at a level that suits you

• Helping foster a positive culture where volunteers feel seen and supported

You’re not expected to carry everything. Board work is a shared responsibility, and it’s normal to have different roles and capacities.

Board work can provide you with:

• Influence over local priorities and directions

• Skills in collaboration, planning, facilitation, and decision-making

• Experience with values-driven organizing and movement building

• Community with passionate people who share your values

• Something meaningful to add to your resume —without needing to be “perfect”

• Learning through hands-on experience: you improve while participating

Many also find peace and motivation in helping build frameworks that sustain long-term engagement.

Board work in Dyrenes Alliance local chapters often suits those who:

• Want to co-own the vision, goals, and priorities—with others

• Enjoy collaboration and finding solutions together

• Want to build structure, direction, or support around activities

• Are aligned with a vegan and animal rights–based approach

• Are curious, eager to learn, and okay with not knowing everything at the start

Both young and experienced individuals can be valuable board members. Your title doesn’t matter as much as your approach and willingness to contribute.

“I’m not an expert—is it okay for me to be qualified?”

Yes. You don’t need to be an expert. The board is about direction, teamwork, and wise decisions—and you learn as you go. The most important thing is your willingness to contribute and share responsibility.

“I’m young / new to activism—is this a good fit?”

Absolutely. Dyrenes Alliance is youth-led and values fresh perspectives. Being new can be a strength—you see things with fresh eyes and can help make the community more welcoming to other newcomers.

“I’m busy—can I still participate?”

Yes. Board work needs to be flexible and adaptable. You agree together on meeting frequency, tasks, and ambitions to fit your individual realities.

“I can’t commit many hours each week.”

You don’t have to. For many, the board role mainly means meeting regularly and contributing perspective, advice, and follow-up. Small, steady contributions can make a big difference in the local chapter’s sustainability.