What is SPACE? What is its Mission?
SPACE on Ryder Farm is a New York 501(c)3 nonprofit artist residency and organic farm founded in 2011. SPACE’s mission is to create an environment singular in its ability to invigorate artists and innovators and their work, and to contribute to the sustainability and resourceful preservation of one of the oldest organic family farms on the East Coast.
What is the role of SPACE’s Board of Directors?
SPACE’s Board of Directors provides governance to the organization by stewarding and protecting its mission. The Board of Directors is responsible for the fiscal health of the organization, its representation in the community and accepts ultimate legal authority for it.
What qualities are we looking for in a SPACE Director?
Passion and belief in the mission of SPACE on Ryder Farm
Desire, readiness and ability to play a leadership role within the institution
Absence or approval of any conflict of interest with SPACE on Ryder Farm
What is the time requirement of a Director?
Directors are expected to attend all quarterly meetings of the Board, and participate fully in discussions and deliberations. 100% attendance is particularly encouraged for the annual meeting of the Board, typically held in December in New York City. Directors are also expected to join at least one committee (such as Finance, Nominating or Development) based on their expertise and/or interest. Combined with additional advising and assisting of staff when needed, this should come out to approximately 4-6 hours per month. If a Board member misses two quarterly meetings in a row it will trigger a conversation with the Executive Director, the Board Chair and the Head of the Nominating Committee to discuss the member’s involvement and continuing interest.
Who leads the Board?
The Board of Directors is currently led by the Executive Committee, which is comprised of the Board Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, Secretary as well as the heads of the Development and Nominating committees.
What is the Term of Office for a SPACE Board Member?
The term of office is one (1) year, and members can be elected at any meeting of the Board. Any person may be re-elected, without limitation, to serve successive terms as a member.
What is the fundraising expectation of Directors?
As SPACE continues to build its Board of Directors, we seek committed individuals with a variety of skills to join our team. New members joining the Board are asked to contribute a minimum $7,500 give/get annually and to make giving to SPACE one of their philanthropic priorities. Directors are also asked to attend at minimum two fundraising events (of which there are many) and to bring friends (and potential supporters) to SPACE events whenever they can. Additionally, it is expected that Directors will assist staff in identifying, cultivating and soliciting perspective individuals, institutions and corporations that they are connected to in order to grow SPACE’s circle of friends and supporters as well as its vital contributed income.