Board of Directors Responsibilities
Board members are passionate and energetic individuals who care about assisting low-income families in Montgomery County achieve a better quality of life. Board members have a proven record of leadership and community development in business, government, philanthropy, or the non-profit sector.
Directors are current residents of Montgomery County, Maryland, or employees of organizations conducting business in Montgomery County, Maryland.
The number of Directors on the Board is limited to seven. Four seats on the Board are reserved for designees of pre-determined professions, disciplines, or experience.
The seats shall include:
- one (1) attorney at law
- one (1) accountant
- one (1) marketing professional
- one (1) low-income resident of Montgomery County, Maryland, 40% of AMI or lower
- three (3) “at-large” seats
Board Directors bring a variety of assets to the organization:
- Professional experience with executive leadership accomplishments in business, government, philanthropy, or the nonprofit sector.
- A commitment to and understanding of HOCP client needs and family dynamics.
- Skills and natural affinity for cultivating relationships and endowments.
- Personal qualities of integrity, credibility and a passion for improving the lives of low –income families living in Montgomery County, MD.
- Service on the HOCP Board of Directors is without remuneration, except for travel and accommodation costs related to official Board business.
Role of the Board
The Board of Directors oversees several programs that benefit low-income residents in affordable housing while providing mission-based leadership and overall strategic governance. HOCP works closely with HOC to support its mission and enhance the lives and opportunities available to its customers and clients. While day-to-day operations are led by volunteer staff of HOC, the Board provides guidance and support where necessary. The Board–staff relationship is a critical partnership that relies on input from both entities.
Board Terms/Participation
Community Board Directors are appointed by the Housing Opportunities Commission, serve three-year terms, and are eligible for re-appointment for additional terms. Board meetings are held up to six times a year. Committee meetings are conducted as needed and in coordination with full Board meetings.
The Board of Directors provide leadership, governance, and oversight by:
Leadership, governance and oversight
- Reviewing, modifying, and approving proposals for funding programs that assist income-qualified persons and families.
- Reviewing outcomes and metrics created by HOCP for evaluating its impact and regularly measuring its performance and effectiveness using those metrics.
- Reviewing agenda and supporting materials prior to Board and committee meetings.
- Approving the HOCP annual budget, audit reports, and material business decisions, being informed of, and meeting all, legal and fiduciary responsibilities.
- Taking on special assignments as needed.
- Representing HOCP to stakeholders, acting as an ambassador for the organization.
- Ensuring HOCP’s commitment to a diverse Board that reflects the community makeup of Montgomery County, MD.
- Assisting with fundraising.
- Making HOCP a philanthropic priority, seeking out and interacting with community organizations, businesses, foundations, and organizations that can assist in achieving the goals of HOCP with contributions of funds and services.
