When a local chapter has a board, it becomes easier to:

• Stay focused on shared goals and priorities

• Maintain continuity, even when volunteers change or move away

• Support new initiatives and get great ideas safely underway

• Ensure tasks and responsibilities are distributed fairly and realistically

• Protect the community and workplace joy

Board work isn’t about being “on top” – it’s about setting direction, creating overview, and offering support so the chapter works well for everyone involved.

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

• Help decide which activities and campaigns you prioritize locally

• Clarify roles and responsibilities to keep work manageable

• Follow up on decisions and help maintain a good rhythm

• Serve as a sounding board for volunteers and initiative leaders

• Contribute to a collaborative culture where more can 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.

Serving on a local chapter board should fit into a regular life with studies, work, family, and other commitments.

Typically, the board meets about once a month.

Some chapters find quarterly meetings also work well – depending on your needs and activity level.

The key is that:

• Meeting frequency and work methods are agreed upon collectively

• The role may include be adapted to each person’s time and energy

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

Between meetings there may be light follow-up – quick chats or small tasks volunteers willingly take on. It doesn’t take many hours each week to make a big impact.

A realistic board member contribution typically includes:

• Attending meetings and participating in decision-making

• Reading brief materials or agendas in advance when decisions are needed

• Contributing with advice, structure, and oversight

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

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

You’re not expected to do it all. Board work is a shared responsibility, and varying roles and capacity are normal.

Board work can give you:

• Influence over local priorities and direction

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

• Experience with value-driven organizing and movement-building

• Community with others who share your values and commitment

• Something meaningful to take with you CV – without needing to be “perfect”

• Learning on the job: you improve as you go

Many also find peace and motivation in helping create sustainable conditions for long-term activism.

Board work in Dyrenes Alliance local chapters often fits you if you:

• Willing to share responsibility for vision, goals, and priorities—together with others

• Thrive in collaboration and enjoy finding solutions together

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

• Value-aligned with a animal rights-based and approach are curious, open to learning, and okay with not knowing everything at the start

• Curious, learning-oriented, and okay with not knowing everything from the start

Both young people and more experienced profiles make strong board members. The key isn’t your title – it’s your attitude and willingness to contribute.

“I’m not an expert – am I really qualified?”

Yes. You don’t have to be an expert to participate. Board work is about direction, collaboration, and good decision-making – skills you develop along the way. The most important thing is your commitment and willingness to share responsibility.

“I’m young / new to activism – does it make sense?”

Absolutely. Dyrenes Alliance is youth-led, and we value fresh perspectives. Being new can be an asset because you bring fresh eyes and help make the community more welcoming to others.

“I’m busy – can I still participate?”

Yes. Board work should be flexible and adaptable. You decide together on meeting frequency, tasks, and goals that fit your reality.

“I can’t commit many hours per week.”

You don’t have to. For many, the board role mainly means attending regular meetings and providing overview, advice, and follow-up. Small, steady efforts can greatly support the chapter’s sustainability.