YEAH! is a non-profit organization committed to further empowering youth voices from all backgrounds and building community through music education. We provide socially conscious, year-round music programs for ages 6-17, creating courageous and safe spaces for personal and artistic growth. Learn more at www.yeahrocks.org and @yeahrocks.
We prioritize collaboration over competition and encourage participants to explore themselves and the world around them, fostering community development in and outside of YEAH!. We value diversity and actively reach out to underrepresented populations, including non-English speaking, LGBTQ+, and Title 1 public school communities in Middle Tennessee. We seek applicants who reflect the communities we serve and aim to empower.
OVERVIEW
The Board of Directors of Youth Empowerment Through the Arts and Humanities, Inc. (YEAH!) governs the overall execution of the organization’s mission. The Board manages organizational finances, strategizes, implements, and evaluates our programs, fundraising, and community engagement. Additionally, the Board oversees the Executive Director, responsible for the organization's day-to-day management. Board members contribute the educational, management, legal, and financial skills to ensure long-term organizational stability and excellence for YEAH’s mission.
The Board of Directors has no limit on the number of its voting members. Terms are for three (3) years.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Board Members hold a fiduciary responsibility to manage organizational capital and ensure appropriate filings with federal, state, and local authorities consistent with the organization’s status as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Additional required responsibilities include:
1. A minimum of 4 hours dedicated to:
Board Meetings: Every other month, attendance, hybrid format, 2 hours. The attendance policy allows for removal if two consecutive meetings are missed without notice.
Board Committee Meetings: Monthly attendance, online, one (1) hour. Finance, Governance, Marketing, or Programs.
Community Events: Two (2) per year. Program showcases, promotional tables at local fairs, and festival performances by our youth, 1 hour.
Advocacy and Fundraising: Throughout the month, independently within and outside of your network.
Annual Board Meeting: Three to four (3-4 hours) workshop style. October.
2. Strategic Plan: Participation in year-round fundraising and diversity efforts and one of the following committees: Governance, Finance, Programs, or Marketing.
3. Annual Donation: $1,000 cash or budget-relieving resources through community contributions. If cash, $80 monthly donation is encouraged.
BOARD MEMBERSHIP QUALIFICATIONS
To ensure the effective governance and strategic direction of YEAH!, we seek board members with the following qualifications:
1. A passion for music and youth empowerment.
2. Experience in one or more of the following areas: education, non-profit management, finance, law, fundraising, marketing, community outreach, or music/arts education.
3. An active member and contributor in one or more diverse and marginalized communities.
4. Demonstrated ability to contribute to fundraising efforts, including securing donations and sponsorships.
5. Understanding of and commitment to promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within the organization and the community.
6. Willingness and ability to attend regular board meetings, participate in committee and community events, and engage in fundraising activities.
7. Ability to contribute to the development and implementation of strategic plans and initiatives.
8. Strong connections within diverse community groups and the ability to leverage those connections to benefit YEAH!.
9. Effective communication and collaboration skills.
PREFERRED ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
1. Prior board of directors or leadership experience
2. Non-profit experience
3. Youth mentorship
4. Event planning and execution
5. Advocacy and public policy experience related to arts, education, and youth programs.
TO APPLY:
1. Complete the Board Application questions below.
2. Send your résumé to Mariela Moscoso at director@yeahrocks.org.
3. Your cover letter needs to include:
a. Personal Statement: What is your connection to YEAH!’s mission and will your unique experiences or perspectives contribute to the organization’s goals?
b. Diversity and Inclusion Statement: What is your commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the board and the broader community we serve?
c. Skills Inventory: Provide an assessment of key skills (e.g., fundraising, music education, community outreach, finance) to ensure your expertise aligns with YEAH!’s strategic needs.
d. Availability and Commitment: Communicate about your available time for attending meetings and, events and participation in fundraising and community engagement efforts.
e. References: A section for providing references (names and contact information) who can speak to your experience and commitment to leadership, music education, social justice, youth empowerment, and nonprofit governance.
PLEASE WRITE “NEW BOARD MEMBER APPLICATION” in the subject line.
