Joining Our Board of Directors

Raleigh City Farm (RCF) is always looking for amazing talent to help sustain our mission: to connect and nourish our community through regenerative agriculture. In addition to our many volunteer opportunities that allow volunteers to physically dig in, we also offer opportunities to serve as a board member and as a committee member.

What are the responsibilities of a board member?

RCF board members provide important leadership, governance, and oversight of the nonprofit organization. Board members are responsible for setting the strategic direction of the organization and ensuring compliance and fiscal responsibility. Board members serve as key advisors to RCF’s Executive Director and Farm Manager.

RCF is especially looking for individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences, especially in fundraising and strategic planning. While day-to-day operations are led by RCF’s Executive Director and Farm Manager, RCF’s board is an active board, and we expect board members to fully engage in board and committee meetings as well as activities on the farm throughout the year. Note that this is an unpaid, volunteer position.

How long do members serve?

RCF’s board members serve a three-year term and can serve up to two consecutive terms (up to 6 years total).

How many people are on the board?

The board is comprised of up to 15 individuals and 4 officers who have added responsibilities: two co-chairs, a secretary, and a treasurer. Any board member is eligible to become an officer and historically, the secretary or treasurer becomes the co-chair. The co-chair serves for two years.

The board also often has a board apprentice position, which provides a great learning opportunity for younger individuals looking to develop their nonprofit or board skills.

Who can apply to become a board member?

Anyone in the Triangle community who is passionate about regenerative and sustainable farming, community education, and/or food insecurity and access is welcome to apply. All applications will be reviewed by board officers using a rubric to ensure equity.

Read more about board member and past co-chair, Jamie Ousterout, and her story of becoming a board member.

How can I apply to become a board member?

Please submit an application using the form below. A member of the board will reach out to you with next steps.

Board Member Application

Name

First Name

Last Name

Are you willing to serve on the board for a 3-year commitment (note: board members are eligible for a second 3-year term)?

Are you willing and able to attend a 90-minute virtual board meeting each month (Note: There are certain months where a board meeting may not happen and certain months where the meeting is in person)

Are you willing to provide an annual financial contribution commensurate with your capacity?

Why do you want to join the board of Raleigh City Farm?

How are you able to cultivate relationships and build consensus among teams?

What is your experience or expertise business, government, philanthropy, or the nonprofit sectors and how would this help you serve?

Please share any details from your resume, stories, or any other materials you would like the board to consider.

Joining a Committee

What committees exist and what are their responsibilities?

Board members are expected to join at least one committee.

And great news: There are two committees that any interested volunteer can apply to join! Here are some additional details:

Marketing and Communications Committee
This committee is responsible for all the digital and print marketing, including RCF’s website, social media, email marketing, and more. Anyone with experience in marketing and communications, including blog and press release writing, social media management, website management and metrics, email marketing, etc. is welcome to apply.
Events Committee
This committee plays a key role in executing RCF events, including two main events each year: Bearthday (the Farm’s anniversary and Earth Day) in the spring and Harvest Dinner (a sit-down dinner on the Farm featuring a local chef) in the fall. Anyone with experience planning and executing events is welcome to apply!

How can I join a committee?

Please fill out our short application below. A member of the committee will respond to you.

Committee Application

Name

First Name

Last Name

Committee You Want To Join

Are you willing to attend regular committee meetings (typically 1 hour once per month, either virtual or in-person)?

Why do you want to join this committee?

Please highlight any past, relevant experience to the committee you want to join.

Please submit any other stories, links, or information you believe would be useful (e.g., LinkedIn profile, details from your resume, past work examples).