Position: Board Member (Director)

About The Protégé Project The Protégé Project is a community-centered nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth and young adults through mentorship, education, leadership development, and violence prevention initiatives.Through programs such as Pathways to Peace & Prosperity (PPP), we work to create safe pathways to opportunity for young people ages 14–24 across Chicago’s South Side communities. Our work focuses on equipping youth with the skills, support systems, and leadership opportunities necessary to build sustainable futures and positively transform their communities.

The Protégé Project operates with a bold vision: to develop the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers. Our Board of Directors plays a critical role in shaping the organization’s strategic direction, strengthening community partnerships, and ensuring the sustainability of our mission-driven work.

Position: Board Member (Director) - Term: Two (2) Years

Why Serve on the Board of Directors?

Serving on the Board of The Protégé Project is an opportunity to:· Support and Empower the Next Generation· Help shape programs that support youth leadership, violence prevention, workforce development, and community transformation.· Contribute Your Expertise· Provide strategic guidance using your professional experience in areas such as leadership, finance, law, fundraising, nonprofit governance, youth development, or public policy.· Ability to build Meaningful Community Impact· Support initiatives that directly address systemic barriers affecting young people in underserved communities.· Engage with Purpose-Driven Leaders· Collaborate with a network of community advocates, professionals, and civic leaders committed to youth empowerment.

Responsibilities of a Board Member· Governance & Strategic Leadership· Board members provide strategic oversight and leadership to ensure the organization fulfills its mission and grows sustainably.· Responsibilities include:· Supporting the organization’s strategic vision and long-term goals· Providing governance oversight and policy guidance· Participating in strategic planning sessions and board development activities· Strengthening board leadership and mentorship for new board members.

Participation & Engagement· Board members actively engage in governance and organizational activities.· Responsibilities include:· Attending scheduled board meetings and committee meetings (virtual or in-person)· Reviewing meeting materials in advance and contributing thoughtful insights· Serving on at least one board committee· Maintaining confidentiality and supporting collective board decisions.

Fiduciary Responsibility

Board members fulfill their legal and ethical responsibilities in overseeing the organization. Responsibilities include:· Upholding the duties of care, loyalty, and obedience· Reviewing financial reports, budgets, and program outcomes· Attending fundraising events and community engagements· Serving as ambassadors for The Protégé Project within professional and community networks· Supporting responsible stewardship of organizational resources· Avoiding conflicts of interest and acting with integrity in all board decisions

The Protégé Project seeks board members who are: · Passionate about youth empowerment, mentorship, and community transformation· Committed to supporting violence prevention and opportunity-building initiatives· Willing to contribute their time, expertise, and networks· We welcome individuals who bring diverse perspectives, professional expertise, and a shared commitment to uplifting youth and communities.

Board Member Commitment: Board members of The Protégé Project are expected to demonstrate an active and meaningful commitment to the organization’s mission, leadership, and sustainability. This includes dedicating time to attend regular board meetings, participating in committee meetings, and engaging in annual strategic retreats and community events that support the organization’s work. Board members are also asked to make a personally meaningful annual financial contribution and assist with fundraising and donor engagement efforts to help advance the organization’s programs and long-term impact. In addition, each board member is expected to serve actively on at least one board committee and represent The Protégé Project as an ambassador within their professional and community networks, helping to elevate the organization’s visibility, partnerships, and mission.

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you are passionate about empowering youth, strengthening communities, and helping guide a mission-driven organization, we invite you to consider joining our Board of Directors. Your leadership can help shape the future of young people and create pathways to peace, prosperity, and purpose.

Please submit your Director Interest to [email protected] by March 16, 2026.

Pay: $1.00 per year

Work Location: Remote