Are you interested in joining our Advisory Council?
We're always in need of guidance and expertise from advisors around the world to support our operations. Learn more about this important role below.
What is the Advisory Council?
The Advisory Council is an informal body that provides non-binding strategic advice and support to the Humane Education Coalition. It is made up of a collection of individuals who bring unique knowledge and skills which augment the knowledge and skills of the Board of Directors in order to more effectively guide the organization. The Advisory Council does not have any formal legal or fiduciary responsibility or governing function within the organization but is instead assembled to give advice and support. The Advisory Council gives greater flexibility in structure and management compared to the Board of Directors.
Who serves on the Advisory Council?
Accomplished experts offering innovative advice and dynamic perspectives, including attorneys, corporate leaders, financial advisors, nonprofit professionals, academic leaders, accountants, public officials, entrepreneurs, knowledgeable community members, and other influential professionals.
What are the benefits of an Advisory Council?
- Provides a means for involving people who are willing to give critical assistance but have limited time
- Provides a means for involving people who would have been good candidates for the Board of Directors, but who are currently unable to serve at the Board level
- Provides a way to keep critical supporters connected to the organization
- Creates a direct link to important professional and technical expertise
- Energizes advisors as ambassadors for the Coalition and its global audience
- Recognizes individuals for their distinguished service
- Assists in efforts to increase philanthropic support
- Enlists help from others without enlarging the governing Board
What are the essential functions of an Advisory Council?
The Advisory Council does not have any legal authority; therefore, all responsibilities are assigned at the discretion of the Board of Directors and at the availability and interests of the advisors. Advisors may take part in any of the following:
- Share their skills and knowledge by providing professional expertise to help the Coalition implement its goals and objectives
- Connect the organization to national or international resources, colleagues, and peers
- Share their diverse knowledge of constituent perspectives
- Assist the Coalition leadership with program or initiative creation and planning by providing advice concerning the design and plans
- Provide an independent, unbiased sounding board to the Board of Directors
- Offer assistance with the development of organizational policies and procedures
- Provide advice for the Coalition’s public relations and marketing activities
- Provide philanthropic support or assistance with donor development and fundraising activities
- Review the Coalition’s annual budget and forecasts and provide input and recommendations
- Serve on Coalition committees, such as the Bloom Grants or Humane Summit committee
- Assist with other specific ongoing and/or short-term organizational needs
What are the expectations of an Advisor?
Serving as an advisor can be as flexible as needed for the individual. There is no set schedule, amount of time, or term length required to be an advisor. Typically, advisors act annually in some significant way to support the Coalition’s mission (e.g., expert advice, door opening, fundraising, etc.). Advisors allow the Coalition to publicize their name and participation on the council, on the website and in publications as necessary. They are encouraged to participate in Coalition events, meetings, and other gatherings. Advisors keep informed about the Coalition’s plans, activities, and needs through e-news, social media, and other means of connection. They are also welcome to attend Board meetings in a nonvoting capacity.
