Volunteer for BACKBONES

BACKBONES is seeking passionate, dedicated individuals to serve on our Board of Directors. Our board is a working board, meaning members actively contribute their skills, experience, and time to help guide and strengthen the organization. Board members provide strategic leadership, support fundraising and development efforts, participate in organizational planning, and serve as ambassadors for our mission. We are especially interested in individuals with experience in areas such as: - Marketing and communications - Finance or accounting - Fundraising and development - Nonprofit leadership - Disability justice and advocacy - Legal or human resources - Community partnerships Board members attend monthly meetings on the second Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. Central and are encouraged to participate on one or more board committees throughout the year. If you're passionate about disability inclusion and want to help shape the future of BACKBONES, we'd love to hear from you.

Powerful stories change perceptions, build community, and inspire action. The Marketing & Communications Committee helps share the impact of BACKBONES through creative storytelling and community outreach. Volunteers may assist with: Identifying inspiring stories from our community Creating social media content Writing blog posts, newsletters, or press materials Connecting with local media and press outlets Expanding awareness of BACKBONES programs Building relationships with rehabilitation hospitals, clinics, and healthcare providers Helping ensure individuals and families know about the resources and support BACKBONES offers The Marketing & Communications Committee meets on the first Wednesday of each month.

The Development Committee works alongside staff and board members to strengthen the financial sustainability of BACKBONES. Volunteers help identify new funding opportunities, cultivate relationships with supporters, and expand the resources needed to serve our community. Volunteer activities may include: Researching and identifying grant opportunities Assisting with grant writing and proposal development Growing our monthly giving program Engaging individual donors and supporters Identifying corporate sponsorship opportunities Connecting with foundations and community partners Supporting fundraising campaigns and special initiatives The Development Committee meets on the first Thursday of each month.

From Connect Nights to educational programs and special celebrations, BACKBONES events create opportunities for people to build friendships, share experiences, and strengthen community. The Events Committee helps plan and support events throughout the year in cities across the country. Volunteer responsibilities may include: Brainstorming event ideas Assisting with planning and logistics Coordinating volunteers Supporting sponsorship and outreach efforts Helping with event promotion Assisting with setup, registration, and day-of activities Creating welcoming, accessible experiences for attendees Meeting dates for the Events Committee vary based on upcoming events and volunteer availability.

Grants play a vital role in helping BACKBONES expand our programs, reach more individuals and families, and create meaningful opportunities for people living with spinal cord injuries and disabilities. We're looking for volunteers with strong writing, research, or grant development skills who want to make a lasting impact. Whether you're an experienced grant writer or have experience with nonprofit writing, fundraising, or research, your expertise can help us secure the funding needed to fulfill our mission. Volunteer responsibilities may include: Researching grant opportunities that align with BACKBONES' mission Writing and editing grant proposals and letters of inquiry Gathering program information, data, and impact stories for applications Assisting with grant reports and follow-up materials Helping maintain a grants calendar and submission deadlines Collaborating with staff to develop compelling funding proposals This volunteer opportunity offers flexible scheduling and can be done remotely, making it a great fit for individuals who want to contribute their professional skills while supporting a disability-led organization. Your writing can help create new opportunities for connection, leadership, advocacy, and support for our community.