A meeting to explain the role and allow new members to share their questions and concerns. On-going Orientation . Informal meetings to touch base with new members during their first several months to answer any new questions. Parental Orientation . A discussion, by phone or in person, with the young person's parent to review the scope of responsibilities and schedule of board activities, and to answer any concerns they might have.
Parental support is key to young people's continued involvement in an organization.
In addition, a strong mentoring program can provide crucial ongoing support for young people. Ongoing skills training can also help young people develop their leadership skills and be more effective board members. Consider creating a training program to cover issues such as fundraising, public speaking, how to write a report, and how to read a budget. Perhaps youth members can meet with a staff person before each board meeting to work on a specific topic. Or better yet, have the young people design their own training program.