I, _______________________, recognizing the important responsibility I am undertaking in serving on the Board of Directors of this organization, hereby pledge to carry out in a trustworthy and diligent manner the duties and obligations in my role as a board member. I will always act for the good of the organization and represent the interests of people served by this nonprofit.

Furthermore, I specifically pledge:

1. To Participate in Meetings: I will attempt to attend all meetings of the board and board committees upon which I serve, and will give advance notice (and reports, as appropriate) when I cannot be present. I will come to meetings prepared to discuss the issues and business of the meeting. I will share my opinion, and respect the opinions of others. I will observe parliamentary procedures and display courteous conduct in all SCNA-related meetings. I will attend and actively participate in the annual strategic planning retreat.
2. To Communicate Appropriately: I will be an advocate of SCNA within the community. I will not represent the views of the SCNA Board unless officially designated to do so, and will clearly state this in any communications that could otherwise be construed as representative of a board-wide opinion. I will support in a positive manner all actions taken by the board of directors even when I am in a minority position on such actions. I will communicate professionally, honestly and courteously both within and outside the organization when working on SCNA-related issues. I will not communicate outside of the board on any SCNA confidential matters unless designated to do so.
3. To Support SCNA Financially: I will contribute a minimum of $25 per year to SCNA for the duration of my board tenure. I will participate to the best of my ability in SCNA-related fundraising efforts.
4. To Follow Through: I will follow through on the commitments I make to the board and the committees I serve on. When circumstances prevent or delay my ability to complete tasks I have committed to, I will seek support or guidance from other board members.
5. To Support Others: When another board member or SCNA volunteer asks for input or assistance, I will be as supportive as I can, replying in a timely manner.
6. To Maintain an Awareness of Our Program Level Activities: I will volunteer at least 10 hours per year doing SCNA direct service work (such as assisting with a class, working on the helpdesk, or in some other way directly supporting SCNA's clients) so I can better understand how, as a board member, I can help support the work SCNA does.
7. To Maintain an Awareness of Our Board Level Activities: I will read the Bylaws and Policies of SCNA. I will read and review the minutes resulting from each meeting I participate in. I will regularly read board-related communications (including email), and respond in a timely manner.
8. To Avoid Conflicts of Interest: If a potential conflict does arise, I will declare that conflict before the board and refrain from voting on matters in which I have conflict.
9. To Participate in Board Member Development: I will attend board development workshops, seminars, and other educational events that enhance my skills as a board member.

I understand that if my participation as a board member is in question, I will have the opportunity to discuss any problems with the officers of the board, and will seek an appropriate resolution that best supports the work of SCNA. If, for any reason, I find myself unable to carry out the above pledges as best as I can, I agree to resign my position as a board member/officer. I also understand that if I should fail to attend three consecutive board meetings without prior arrangement, that my failure to appear will constitute my resignation from the board.

(to be signed and dated by each board member)

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Approved at the January 20th, 2000 Meeting of the SCNA Board of Directors.

If you have any questions about this Commitment Pledge, please contact Melissa Guest, SCNA Vice President