For more than 10 years, we’ve led the charge in empowering Black girls in some of Chicago’s most underserved communities on their journeys to becoming confident, purpose-driven leaders through character development, career readiness, and civic engagement.
We are the only organization offering our unique community-based model that integrates culture, one-on-one and group mentoring, leadership development, and mental health support specifically for the needs of Black girls.
Committed to educational advancement, in 2021, 100% of our girls have been accepted into 4-year colleges and universities and 97% of our girls are placed in summer internships compared to 14% of African American teens who have been employed.
Even greater, our impact extends beyond their high-school graduation. We mentor and support our alumni for six additional years to further their development and success.
Through the support of our Board of Directors, staff, volunteers and community, we’ve been recognized by The Obama Foundation, The University of Chicago, The Chicago Innovation Awards – Top 100, Project Management Institute, and many others.
Sectors:
- Education
- Youth
- Children / Family
- Social Justice
Board Member duties & responsibilities:
Board of Directors of Ladies of Virtue have a legal and ethical responsibility to ensure that the organization does the best work possible in pursuit of its goals.
We expect board members to sign the following:
I believe in the purpose and the mission of the organization, and will act responsibly and prudently as its steward.
As part of my responsibilities as a board member:
- I will interpret the organization’s work and values to the community, represent the organization, and act as a spokesperson.
- In turn, I will interpret our constituencies’ needs and values to the organization, speak out for their interests, and on their behalf, hold the organization accountable.
- Review the agenda and supporting materials prior to Board and committee meetings.
- I will attend at least 75 percent of board meetings.
- I will actively participate in the LOV Annual Fundraiser (sell tickets, pursue and secure sponsorships, spread the word about the event, etc).
- Each year, but no later than December 31st of each year and without having to be asked, I will make a personal financial contribution (give or get) of at least $1,000 in my first year of being on the Board and at least $3,000 every year thereafter. I understand that this contribution is not prorated based on the timing of when I join the Board.
- I will excuse myself from discussions and votes where I have a conflict of interest.
- I will stay informed about what’s going on in the organization. I will ask questions and request information. I will participate in and take responsibility for making decisions on issues, policies, and other matters. I will not stay silent if I have questions or concerns.
- I will work in good faith with staff and other board members as partners toward achievement of our goals.
- Provide support and advice to the staff but avoid interfering in management activities.
- If I don’t fulfill these commitments to the organization, this is what I should expect: After the 1st year of not meeting my Board requirements, I will have a conversation with the Board President and will be matched with a Board member to improve in a specific area. After the 2nd consecutive year of not meeting my Board requirements, I will be asked to resign.
Board term & limits:
1 year but renewable (prefer at least 2 years on the board).
Financial commitment:
$1000 first year, $3,000 year after (many board members exceed this).
Skills needed:
- Financial
- Human Resources
- Marketing / Communications
- Operations
- Other