Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer Opportunities in ILA Member Communities

ILA Member Communities thrive on the leadership and dedication of their volunteers. Here, you’ll find a breakdown of core volunteer roles within our Member Communities, along with opportunities to get more involved.


Key Leadership Roles in Member Communities

Each ILA Member Community is guided by a core group of leaders committed to advancing the community’s purpose and supporting the ILA’s mission. To simplify communication and ensure consistency, communities may refer to these leaders as the Chair, Chair-Elect, and Past Chair. These titles are often interchangeable with terms like President/Convener depending on the community.

Chair

The Chair leads with vision and direction, overseeing projects and initiatives to achieve the community’s objectives. This role involves convening regular meetings with the leadership team, recruiting and coordinating volunteers, and acting as the primary liaison with the ILA Membership Team. The Chair’s responsibilities help keep the community on track to meet both immediate goals and long-term objectives.

Chair-Elect

The Chair-Elect supports the Chair in advancing the community’s goals and participates in leadership activities to gain experience and insight. This role often involves managing specific projects, engaging with community members, and promoting volunteer opportunities. By working closely with the Chair, the Chair-Elect helps ensure continuity of leadership and prepares to assume the Chair position in the future.

Past Chair

The Past Chair offers valuable historical perspective, guidance, and support to the leadership team, especially through transitions. This role helps with recruiting volunteers, advising on ongoing initiatives, and providing insights from previous experiences within the community. The Past Chair plays a vital part in sustaining the community’s traditions and long-term goals.

Requirements for Serving as Chair

  1. Three-Year Commitment
    Serving as Chair involves a three-year succession: one year as Chair-Elect, one year as Chair, and one year as Past Chair. This structure ensures continuity and sustained leadership within the community.
  2. Time Commitment
    Candidates should be prepared to dedicate approximately 4-10 hours per month to support the community and fulfill leadership responsibilities.
  3. Membership Tenure
    Candidates for Chair must have been an ILA member for at least two years, while Chair-Elect candidates should have at least one year of ILA membership.
  4. Conference Attendance
    The Chair is required to attend ILA Global Conferences throughout their term to represent and engage on behalf of the community.
  5. Community Affiliation and Familiarity
    Candidates should be actively affiliated with the Member Community and have a solid understanding of its mission, vision, bylaws, history, and ongoing projects.