Becoming a Volunteer Council member
The Volunteer Council of the League of American Orchestras conducts a
national search for candidates to serve on the Council. We ask for your
help in identifying community leaders who have demonstrated outstanding
support for your orchestra and invite you to nominate them to fill
these important positions. Keep in mind that immediate past presidents
of volunteer associations who have shown exceptional commitment are
often appropriate candidates. We are looking to represent all types of
volunteers from all orchestra sizes.
The Volunteer Council of the League of American Orchestras interfaces and partners with League staff to accomplish its work. The Council is responsible for:
- Contacting local volunteer associations
- Programming for volunteer sessions at the League’s annual Conference
- Conducting regional workshops upon request of local volunteer associations
- Providing resources and support through an online newsletter Volunteer Notes, an e-mail discussion group, the volunteer section of the League’s web site and the Gold Book Online
- Encouraging local volunteer associations to take an active role in local, state and national arts advocacy
Volunteer Council Meetings
The Volunteer Council operates on a shared leadership model. First-year Council members learn, observe and participate as committee members. Leadership roles are assumed in succeeding years. The Council meets three times with the League Staff each year: in September/October and January/February at the League Office (or at a place chosen by the Council Leadership Committee) and in June in conjunction with the League’s annual National Conference. Committee meetings are held during these times; therefore, it is imperative that all Council members be present. In addition, committee work is done throughout the year via telephone calls, e-mail and faxes.
Financial Considerations
Volunteer Council members pay their own expenses for all meetings. As noted above, meetings include one fall meeting, one winter meeting, and one June conference. Expenses include transportation, lodging (3 - 6 nights each time), meals, tips, and taxi fare. In addition, a Council member may be asked to conduct or assist with one day regional workshops and pay the associated expenses. There is a special group registration fee for Conference and two fees associated with Council meetings: optional entertainment events and the Sunshine Fund. All Volunteer Council members are expected to make a contribution to the League’s Annual Fund each year.
Terms of Office
Members are elected for a term of two provisional years and are eligible for re-election for two additional two-year terms. To ensure continuity and leadership succession, members are encouraged to serve a full six-year term.
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