AARP Foundation Board of Directors Application Process

Source: AARP.org | November 15, 2007

Fall 2007

The AARP Foundation is AARP’s affiliated charity. Foundation programs provide security, protection and empowerment for older persons in need. Low-income older workers receive the job training and placement they need to re-join the workforce. Free tax preparation is provided for low- and moderate-income individuals, with special attention to those 60 and older. The Foundation’s litigation staff protects the legal rights of older Americans in critical health, long-term care, and consumer and employment situations. Additional programs provide information, education, and services to ensure that people over 50 lead lives of independence, dignity, and purpose. Foundation programs are funded by grants, tax-deductible contributions, and AARP.

The following general qualifications are essential to be a member of AARP Foundation’s Board of Directors:

• Governance Skills and Abilities. Experience in governing and policy development which includes providing strategic direction, monitoring organizational effectiveness, overseeing financial and budgetary issues, and determining critical programmatic policies and directions.
• Fundraising. Successful track record in fundraising for nonprofit organizations. Experience with and interest in communicating with potential major donors and in identifying and developing new relationships with potential donors.
• Dedication to AARP Foundation’s Goals. Demonstrate genuine interest and/or experience in the aging field and the vision, mission, goals, values and beliefs of the AARP Foundation. The AARP Foundation is committed to diversity and inclusion in all our policies, plans, programs, services, relationships, and operations.
• Teamwork Skills. Work in partnership with staff with varying viewpoints and backgrounds to reach consensus on complex problems and issues.
• Leadership. Demonstrate leadership experience as a member of one or more Boards of Directors with similar goals, or comparable leadership experience.
• Represent AARP Foundation to the Public. Act as a spokesperson to AARP membership, volunteers, public, press, the philanthropic community, and other groups in articulating AARP Foundation’s mission, goals and activities.

Important Dates:

November 19, 2007– Application process opens

January 11, 2008– Application process closes

February 2008– All applicants notified of status

March 2008– Interviews of Finalist Candidates

May 2008– Appointment of New Board Members