Be Part of Our Leadership Story—Learn the Board Membership Process

The Joslyn Center’s Board of Directors plays a vital role in guiding the future of one of the Coachella Valley’s most trusted and beloved community institutions. Board members help shape strategic direction, uphold organizational integrity, and ensure that programs and services continue enriching the lives of older adults across the Cove communities. For those who feel called to serve, board membership offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute leadership, expertise, and heart.

The Role of a Board Member

Board members serve as stewards of the Center’s mission. Their responsibilities include:

• Providing strategic oversight and long-range planning
• Ensuring financial stability and fiduciary accountability
• Supporting the Executive Director through governance—not operations
• Representing the Center within the community
• Upholding the values of transparency, inclusion, and ethical leadership

The Board seeks individuals who bring diverse skills, lived experience, and a genuine commitment to the wellbeing of older adults.

The Governance Committee: Gatekeepers of Excellence

The Governance Committee oversees all aspects of board recruitment, vetting, and development. Its charge is to ensure that the Board remains strong, balanced, and equipped with the expertise needed for responsible nonprofit leadership.

To accomplish this, the Committee maintains a Board Skills Matrix—a tool used to identify current strengths, gaps, and priority areas for recruitment. This ensures that each new member contributes meaningfully to the Board’s collective capacity.

The Process to Become a Board Member

The Joslyn Center follows a structured, consistent, and equitable process for all prospective board members. This process ensures fairness, clarity, and alignment with the Center’s long-term needs. The process begins when an individual submits an application and resume to the Executive Director or Finance and Operations Officer. The application is available via the link below, along with a detailed description of the steps involved in becoming a board member.

While all interested individuals are welcome to apply, not all applications will be accepted. Some applicants may not align with the current gaps and priority areas identified through the Board Skills Matrix. This approach helps ensure that each new member strengthens the Board’s overall capacity and supports the Center’s mission effectively.

A Commitment to Community Leadership

Board membership at The Joslyn Center is both an honor and a responsibility. The process is intentionally thorough, reflecting the seriousness of the Board’s role in guiding a nonprofit that serves thousands of older adults each year. Those who do join the Board become part of a legacy of compassion, accountability, and a shared belief in the power of community.

Strengthening Understanding Across Our Community

As part of our commitment to transparency and inclusion, we are dedicated to increasing understanding—among current members and the broader community—about how individuals become part of the Board of Directors. By clearly outlining the process, expectations, and criteria, we aim to ensure that every interested community member feels informed, respected, and empowered to consider board service when the time is right.