Each board member is asked to complete a Westfield Youth Assistance Program (WYAP) Board Membership Agreement when elected. The agreement states the following:

I understand that as a member of the Board of Directors of the Westfield Youth Assistance Program, I have a legal and ethical responsibility to ensure that the organization does the best work possible in pursuit of its goals. I believe in the purpose and mission of WYAP, and I will act responsibly and prudently as its steward. As part of my responsibilities as a board member:

  1. I will interpret the organization’s work and values to the community, represent the organization and act as a spokesperson.
  2. In turn, I will interpret our constituencies’ needs and values to the organization, speak out for their interests, and hold the organization accountable on their behalf.
  3. I will attend six (6) of the eight (8) general board meetings each year which fall on the last Thursday of the month 7-8:30 am. If applicable, I will attend five (5) out of six (6) Executive Board Meetings.
  4. I will attend the local board retreat annually (typically in January for future years).
  5. I will make a financial contribution at a level that is meaningful to me no later than December 1 of each year without having to be asked.
  6. I will actively participate in 1 or more fundraising activities; in addition, I will attend special events and committee meetings.
  7. When available, I will assist the EIAs with interviews, phone calls, or other tasks.
  8. I will excuse myself from discussions and votes where I have a conflict of interest.
  9. I will stay informed about what is going on in the organization. I will ask questions and requestinformation. I will participate in and take responsibility for making decisions on issues, policies, or other matters. I will not stay silent if I have questions or concerns.
  10. While I am a member of this Board, I will make every effort to vote in every public election.
  11. I will work in good faith with staff and other board members as partners toward achieving our goals.
  12. I will complete my Board Term of 3 years and have an option to renew for 3 years.
  13. If I don’t fulfill these organizational commitments, I expect the board president to call me and discuss my responsibilities with me.