Planet Watch Board of Directors

About Planet Watch

Planet Watch is a community organization that works to protect and care for the environment through education, advocacy, and hands-on action. It relies on volunteers, supporters, and a dedicated board to turn its mission into real results.

The Critical Role of the Board

The Board of Directors is the foundation of Planet Watch. It holds the organization accountable to its mission and its supporters, and it is legally responsible for how the organization is run. Without an engaged board, Planet Watch cannot make sound decisions, manage its money responsibly, or grow.

The Board sets the vision and strategy, approves the budget, oversees finances, supports fundraising, and ensures the organization follows the law and its own bylaws. Day-to-day work is carried out by staff and volunteers, while the Board provides direction, oversight, and support.

Duties of All Board Members

• Attend board meetings, come prepared, and take part in discussions and votes
• Act in the best interest of Planet Watch, not personal or outside interests
• Disclose any conflict of interest and step back from related decisions
• Review financial reports, meeting minutes, and other materials
• Help raise funds and build relationships, including making a personal gift if able
• Serve as an ambassador for Planet Watch in the community
• Keep board discussions and sensitive information confidential
• Support and follow the organization's bylaws, policies, and the law

General Officer

Purpose: Help guide Planet Watch and represent its mission in the community.

Responsibilities

• Attend board meetings and vote on key decisions
• Help set goals and review progress toward them
• Support fundraising, outreach, and volunteer efforts
• Serve on a committee or take on a project as needed
• Speak positively about Planet Watch and its work

Qualifications

• Care about Planet Watch's mission
• Willing to give time and ideas
• No special experience required

Treasurer

Purpose: Oversee Planet Watch's finances and keep the Board informed about its financial health.

Responsibilities

• Keep accurate records of income and expenses
• Present a financial report at each board meeting
• Help prepare and monitor the annual budget
• Make sure bills are paid and funds are handled safely
• Oversee tax filings and required financial reporting
• Work with the Board on financial decisions and fundraising goals

Qualifications

• Comfortable with basic bookkeeping and budgets
• Organized, honest, and detail-oriented
• Willing to learn the organization's accounting tools

Term and Time Commitment

Board members serve a one-year term and may be re-elected. Plan on attending regular board meetings and spending a few extra hours each month on committee work or projects. The Treasurer should expect a little more time around budget and tax season.