–Photo Credit Connect For Good

“Board of directors” can sound intimidating. It conjures images of long meetings, big responsibilities and the nagging thought: I’m not qualified.

Seniors bring the steady judgment, perspective and problem-solving skills nonprofits need. Serving on a nonprofit board also brings unexpected privileges including friendship and a sense of purpose. 

That is the idea behind Board Connect, a networking fair hosted by Connect for Good that pairs local nonprofits with community members interested in board service. The Grand Junction event returns this year for its second round.

Connect for Good founder Porcia Chen Silverberg said adults 50 and older may be among the community’s most qualified and most underused leaders.

At last year’s event, Jessie Kelleher, board chair of Community Impact Council of Mesa County, gained a board member who was 50+ attending on behalf of another organization. 

“I really appreciate when seniors, and especially people who are retired and looking at how they can give back in their community, join boards or volunteer,” Kelleher said. “The wealth of knowledge and experience they bring can help all of us grow and do better.”

Ginger Garite attended last year’s Board Connect and landed a position on the board with Loving Beyond Understanding, a collaborative space for LGBTQ+ people on the Western Slope. 

“I retired from human services, and I really wanted to do something to give back to my community,” Garite said. “I’m very passionate about the LGBTQIA population. So, I picked them.”

Ami Schiffbauer, development director of Mesa County Libraries Foundation said Board Connect was a great opportunity to meet people who are interested in getting involved with local nonprofits. 

“We connected with several people whose enthusiasm and curiosity inspired a renewed sense of purpose in our board,” Schiffbauer said.

Connect for Good brings people together across sectors and generations to strengthen local leadership, build belonging and amplify collective goodwill.

“If somebody has the desire and the passion to make a difference, they need to find a nonprofit they really care about and get to know it,” Silverberg said. “Nonprofits are critical to a thriving, connected community but they can’t do it alone. They need new energy, fresh perspectives and community-minded individuals at their board table.”

While people of all ages are welcome at Board Connect, seniors who want to share their experience and help strengthen local nonprofits are encouraged to attend. 

Board Connect will be held from 4-6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10 at the Clifton

Community Center, 3270 D 1/2 Road in Clifton. Attendance is free.

“Community members new to the idea of serving on a board can explore, connect and discover what’s possible in their own backyard,” said Silverberg. 

To learn more, visit ConnectForGood.biz/board-connect