Abilene has one of the highest concentrations of nonprofits per square mile—a true testament to our city’s commitment to service and community support. At the same time, Abilene is home to a growing number of talented young professionals who are eager to make a meaningful impact. Recognizing this unique combination, the Abilene Young Professionals group recently relaunched “Get on Board,” a program designed to connect emerging leaders with nonprofit organizations in need of fresh energy, new perspectives, and future-focused leadership.
By matching young professionals under 40 with nonprofit boards and committees where their skills and passions can make a real difference, we can help shape better leaders and bring innovative ideas to local organizations. For many participants, Get on Board is their first introduction to board service. This is the perfect way to begin integrating into the community and building their professional brand.
One of the biggest challenges nonprofit boards face is identifying and recruiting new members who not only have the right skill sets but also a genuine passion for service. The Get on Board program streamlines this process by serving as a talent pipeline, connecting organizations with a network of engaged young professionals who are eager to get involved. This program is designed to move beyond the traditional word-of-mouth referral process for finding potential members.
Whether you’re a nonprofit seeking dynamic new board members or a young leader looking to get more involved, Get on Board is your opportunity to be part of something meaningful. Together, we’re building a stronger, more connected Abilene—one board seat at a time.
For more information, click here.
Open Board Positions
Contact First Name: David
Contact Last Name: Hendricks
Business Name: YMCA of Abilene
Number of Seats Available: 3
Email: dhendricks@abileneymca.org
Phone: (325) 695-3400
Term Start Date: 2025-05-22
Chamber Member: Yes
Description:
Mission Statement
To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.
Governing Board Member Responsibilities
Time Commitment
Board meetings are held once a month on the 4th Thursday at noon. (August –May) In addition, you may be asked to serve on a committee. Board members are also expected to attend special events throughout the year.
Typical Board Member Responsibilities:
Ensure effective planning. Boards must actively participate in an overall strategic planning process and assist in implementing and monitoring the plan's goals.
Ensure adequate financial resources. One of the board's foremost responsibilities is to secure adequate ongoing financial resources for the organization to fulfill its mission.
Protect assets and provide proper financial oversight. The board must assist in developing the annual budget and ensuring that proper financial controls are in place.
Enhance the organization's public standing. The board should clearly articulate the organization's mission, accomplishments, and goals to the public and garner support from the community.
Build a competent board. All boards have a responsibility to recommend future candidates, orient new board members, and serve in a leadership role as needed.
Hire, support, and evaluate the chief executive. The board should ensure that the chief executive has the moral and professional support he or she needs to further the goals of the organization.
Ensure legal and ethical integrity. The board is ultimately responsible for adherence to legal standards and ethical norms.
About the Y
The Y is the leading nonprofit committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
Our Cause Defines Us
We know that lasting personal and social change comes about when we all work together. That’s why, at the Y, strengthening community is our cause. Every day, we work side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.
Contact First Name: Kathy
Contact Last Name: Strong
Business Name: Adult Education Support Organization (AESO)
Number of Seats Available: 3-5
Email: chatkatherine@gmail.com
Phone: 3256651039
Term Start Date: 2025-09-08
Chamber Member: No
Description:
AESO provides supplemental resources to our adult education students and teachers of the West Texas region. Adult learners have a wide variety of obstacles related to education. As they work toward earning their GED or becoming proficient in the English language, AESO is here to help. We financially assist students by helping with testing fees and transportation costs. We also host campus activities and a graduation ceremony and reception for students to share their success with their family and friends.
Contact First Name: Courtney
Contact Last Name: Horton
Business Name: Abilene Hope Haven
Number of Seats Available: 2
Email: chorton@abilenehh.onmicrosoft.com
Phone: 3256774673
Term Start Date: 2025-07-01
Chamber Member: Yes
Description: Abilene Hope Haven's mission is to inspire hope in our neighbors' experiencing homelessness. Board members meeting monthly as oversight of the Executive Director for Abilene Hope Haven. Monthly meetings include approval of minutes and monthly financials as well as a review of the Executive Director report. Abilene Hope Haven's Bridge 2 Home Program is a vital component to the overall response system to homelessness in Abilene. The Board of Directors ensures the sustainability of Abilene Hope Haven's role in the homeless system. Board members use their strengths and skills in different arenas to promote development, governmental oversight, and fundraising.