Retirees may have time to give to the community, others serve to protect their assets while others serve to fill a void. Regardless of the reason, volunteer board members have liability exposure for actions taken or not taken.
Board members are responsible for association finances, policy making and signing contracts.
Never misrepresent authority, such as negotiating with a contractor when that authority belongs to the Board as a whole or the Board President. Stay informed about association business by reading all related correspondence and minutes. Use consultants when expertise is called for. Guessing at complex solutions only creates complex problems. Attend all board meetings.