Board of Directors Member

About Us

Ecology in Classrooms & Outdoors (ECO) is dedicated to inspiring students to care for nature and their local communities through hands-on science education and climate action. Our mission-driven organization offers distinctive, comprehensive on-site programming, Spanish immersion lessons, and an online curriculum serving K-12th grade students. We focus on increasing students’ critical thinking skills, creating the next generation of environmental stewards, and deepening students’ ties to their community through experiential lessons and activities.

Role Summary:

As a member of ECO's Board of Directors, you will play a critical role in guiding the organization's strategic direction, ensuring financial health, and promoting our mission to inspire students. Success in this position involves active participation in board and committee meetings, thoughtful decision-making that aligns with our mission, and contributing to the overall growth and sustainability of ECO. This role is integral to the governance and leadership of ECO, helping to shape the future of our programs and impact.

Key Responsibilities:

• Mission Protection: Ensure all activities and decisions support ECO’s mission.
• Program Oversight: Monitor programming to align with ECO’s Mission Statement.
• Leadership and Advisement: Provide strategic guidance and organizational leadership.
• Committee Participation: Serve as a member of at least one committee and contribute to its objectives.
• Policy Review: Regularly review and revise Bylaws and policies as necessary.
• Financial Management: Oversee financial health, including adoption and oversight of the annual budget.
• Strategic Planning: Participate in long-term strategic planning and annual goal assessments.
• Executive Oversight: Hire, support, and evaluate the executive director(s).
• Recruitment: Identify and recruit new board and committee members.
• Legal Compliance: Adhere to the legal responsibilities outlined in Oregon’s Guide to Nonprofit Service.
• Meeting Participation: Attend at least four regular board meetings and 80% of committee meetings annually.
• Community Engagement: Promote ECO’s mission and programs within the community.
• Fundraising: Support fundraising efforts and develop relationships with donors and partners.

Qualifications:

• Skills: Strong leadership, strategic planning, and decision-making skills. Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
• Experience: Previous board experience or experience in nonprofit management, education, environmental science, or related fields is preferred.
• Commitment: Passion for ECO’s mission and a commitment to supporting hands-on science education and climate action.
• Availability: Ability to meet the time commitments required for board and committee meetings, as well as special events and programs.
• Financial Support: Willingness to support ECO financially in a manner commensurate with your ability.

Success in the Role:

Success as a board member at ECO is measured by your active engagement in meetings and committees, effective governance, and contributions to strategic initiatives. Your ability to build relationships with fellow board members, staff, and community stakeholders, and to advocate for ECO’s mission, will be critical to your success and the organization’s impact.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online through our application form. For more information, please contact us at info@ecologyoutdoors.org or reach out to our Partnership Coordinator, Sebastian Witherow, at sebastian@ecologyoutdoors.org. Join us in inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards and making a meaningful impact in our community.