Join our Board of Directors

Desirable qualifications:

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​• Passion for Animal Welfare: A strong commitment to Anam Cara’s mission and a genuine passion for animal welfare and ethical humane animal values are fundamental. A strong understanding and acceptance of humane living and how that interconnects us and aligns us ethically with farmed animal rescue. It will always be about the animals and for the animals. Individuals with backgrounds in animal science, veterinary medicine, or experience in the care and well-being of farmed animals can provide valuable insights.
• Communication and Collaboration: Possessing good written and oral communication skills is important for the Board to brainstorm growth and further the mission of the sanctuary. Individuals should have the ability to communicate via text, phone, email, and the internet (Google Meetings, Zoom, etc), and be proficient in Microsoft programs and internet applications. Having an excellent history of successful collaboration and teamwork is a plus. Must be able to meet deadlines and accomplish goals on target.
• Non-profit Management: Experience serving as a board member or nonprofit employee, or having knowledge of nonprofit management, including human resources, volunteer management, and program development, can be highly beneficial. Understanding non-profit governance, non-profit law, tax regulations, and compliance matters are essential to keep the organization in good standing, but not necessary to have in order to apply.
• Fundraising and Development: Individuals with experience in fundraising, donor relations, major gifts, corporate sponsorship acquisition, grant writing, event hosting, and development can help secure the necessary financial resources to support the sanctuary's operations and growth. Skills in marketing, branding, and public relations can help raise awareness and promote the sanctuary's work to a broader audience.
• Financial Management: Knowledge of financial management, bookkeeping, budgeting, and accounting is valuable to ensure the organization's financial sustainability.
• Ability to devote at least 2-5 hours per week to sanctuary-related tasks.
• Commitment to at least 1 year on the Board of Directors, with an option to renew.

Board members have many opportunities to contribute to the success of Anam Cara Sanctuary based on their personal skills and interests. They must be prepared to devote at least 2-5 hours per week (more or less depending on projects) to tasks for the organization. Board members are also expected to attend Board and committee meetings.

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Responsibilities:

President - This is a position of overview, philosophy, and control. The President represents Anam Cara to the general public and is the “figurehead” for the organization. The President ensures the smooth running of the Board; handles staffing issues that cannot or should not be handled at the committee level; addresses emerging problems that threaten Anam Cara’s ability to carry out its mission; and oversees the associations Anam Cara makes with other organizations. The President can call together a committee to serve the purpose of delegating some of the responsibilities that fall under his or her leadership. This position requires strong leadership skills, motivation, good judgment, effective communication skills, and the ability to anticipate and address problems.

Vice President – The Vice President is the visionary of the group. This person is free to set up a committee that can seek out new and dynamic ways to market the animals, make connections with other organization around the region, and make sure that Board and volunteers are working together to meet the mission of the organization. This position requires enthusiasm for Anam Cara’s mission, motivation, creativity, and effective communication skills.

Treasurer – The Treasurer ensures the finances for the organization are in order. As the Treasurer, they ensure that deposits are made, bills are paid on time, and all IRS and State-required tax reports are filed properly. He or she prepares Anam Cara’s financial statements and keeps the financial records and books up-to-date (or oversees these functions). They monitor the organization’s revenue and bills (i.e. feed, supplies, and medical bills). The Treasurer keeps the list of all Anam Cara financial donors, ensures that donation notifications (thank you notes) are sent to all donors in a timely manner. This position requires advanced accounting and financial-planning skills and experience, attention to detail, and effective communication skills.

Secretary – The Secretary is an active conduit for communication between the Board members and the organization’s volunteers. As a member of the Board, the Secretary coordinates the Board meetings, and compiles, prepares, and distributes Board meeting agendas and minutes. The Secretary manages active volunteers, overseas volunteer coordination and recruitment, and processes volunteer applications. This position requires effective communication and organizational skills, as well as attention to detail.

Members-at-Large (MAL) - MAL participate in board meetings, provide input on key decisions, and contribute expertise or guidance on matters relevant to the organization’s mission and objectives. They act as ambassadors for the organization, promoting its mission and activities to external stakeholders, including potential donors and the broader community. MAL are expected to attend annual fundraisers. There are four MAL positions to focus on the various animals in the sanctuary (pigs, goats/sheep, horses, and fowl).

Time and Financial Considerations:

• Board Meetings: monthly
• Committee Work: by email and by additional meetings arranged by Committee Chair
• Annual Fundraiser(s): Board participation required for planning/organizing and attendance is encouraged.
• Volunteering at the sanctuary is encouraged
• Donation: at Anam Cara, we believe that a shared commitment to our mission is essential for our success. As a board member, your leadership is invaluable in guiding our organization towards its goals. To demonstrate your dedication and align with our mission, we encourage executive board members to make an annual donation. This personal financial support not only sets a positive example for our supporters, but also directly contributes to the sustainability and impact of our nonprofit. Your annual donation serves as a tangible expression of your belief in our cause and strengthens our collective efforts to make a difference in our community and beyond. The amount is optional, but we ask that board members consider giving. We greatly appreciate your continued support and dedication to our mission.

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If this sounds great to you, please fill out a Board of Directors application and email it to: Anamcarasanctuary19@gmail.com.  Anam Cara Bylaws are available here.  Please review prior to applying.