A hardworking, African-American mother, Theresa Parks has always been one to work for the betterment of her community, though mostly behind the scenes. Whether around the office or at church, Theresa was always one to help out. But she knew she could offer so much more.
Theresa Parks is like so many we know in our community. Our friends, our neighbors ó perhaps even you ó want to help build a stronger, more diverse community, but aren't sure how. Some don't feel they have the skills they need to give back. Others aren't sure how to get started. Thankfully, a friend of Theresa's told her about United Way's Get On Board, an initiative designed to recruit, train, place and retain traditionally underrepresented populations on nonprofit boards in Central Kentucky.
In 2001, several local groups got together out of concern that local boards had not kept pace in being representative of the diversity of Central Kentucky's population.†The result was a collaboration of the Urban League of Lexington-Fayette County, National (now Kentucky) Conference for Community and Justice, Kentucky League of Cities and United Way of the Bluegrass to start Get On Board.††
Get On Board was developed largely based on United Way of America's Project Blueprint model. The idea was to ensure that a system was in place to contribute to the diversification of nonprofit boards. Today, the initiative is overseen by its own community advisory council, many of its members being graduates of the program.
Since the program began, the results have been amazing. More than 180 individuals like Theresa have taken part in the rigorous training. Local nonprofits are now clamoring to receive these trained leaders. In fact, Get On Board has 150 nonprofit boards and mayor-appointed boards and commissions recruiting these graduates.
Theresa completed the Get On Board class in the fall of 2004. Shortly after, she began serving on the board of Mother-to-Mother, a nonprofit designed to help mothers build international friendships across racial and ethnic lines. Her knowledge and expertise was quickly noted, and Theresa was soon named president of the organization's board of directors. A strong believer in Get On Board, Theresa is also now a member of the initiative's community advisory council.
In December, the initiative completed its seventh class with 21 new graduates.†"I am at a time in my life when I'm looking for different avenues to give back to the community," said Joyce Bryan, one of the latest graduates. "United Way's Get On Board initiative has more than equipped me with the tools I need to serve.
If you would like the opportunity to make a difference and be considered for the next Get On Board class