OnBoard is designed to support the health and viability of our community's nonprofit leadership – the Board.
Hosted by UWPV, OnBoard has expanded its offerings with a series of instructional webinars, networking opportunities, and community engagement activities to prepare anyone for Board service. We invite anyone interested in serving on a Board, or just interested in learning about the integral role of the Board, to start your journey with OnBoard.
Leaders Lounge
Date: Second Thursday of every month
Time and Location:
08:30 AM – 10:00 AM EST (US and Canada)
United Way of Pioneer Valley Main Office
1441 Main St. Suite 137, Springfield, MA 01103
Join us for Leaders Lounge—a free, informal monthly meetup on the second Thursday of every month for nonprofit leaders and community builders. Hosted by United Way of Pioneer Valley’s Community Leadership Connect, it’s a space to share ideas, test solutions, and learn of best practices. All are welcome to join the conversation!
Come as you are to connect, grow, and recharge in a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. We can’t wait to see you there!
Leaders Lounge Schedule 2025
August 14th, 2025: Leaders from safety net services will be on hand to share tips and resources you can provide to those trying to navigate the ever-changing system.
September 11th, 2025: Our focus will be on the impact of SNAP cuts to our community and exploring areas for collaboration, even on small scales, to help those at the greatest risk.
October 9th, 2025: This month will feature area leaders and practitioners sharing best practices in managing a budget this free fall environment.
November 13th, 2025: We are talking about Board recruitment this month and sharing lessons learned and techniques that work.
December 11th, 2025: It is the season of giving, so we will be looking at how the generosity of time (volunteers) can be a boon to your bottom line.
OnBoard Learning Sessions
Board Basics is an ongoing series for anyone exploring board service. Led by seasoned nonprofit mentors from Western Mass, sessions offer a chance to learn, ask questions, network, and get tools to help you decide if board-level volunteering is right for you.
Register for our upcoming Board Basics Workshops! These will focus on:
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Governance – Understanding board roles and responsibilities
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Recruitment & Retention – Strategies for building an engaged board
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Strategic Planning – Aligning board efforts with long-term organizational success
What to Expect from Learning Sessions:
One-on-one conversations with local specialists in board and leadership development. You’ll have the chance to ask questions, discuss governance topics, and network with peers in a laid-back environment.
Attend Our Next Session
Board Retention & Recruitment: An interactive conversation about best practices and resources to support you, your board and the community.
Board Matching Event
The OnBoard matching event is part of a volunteer leadership development program that connects interested, talented individuals with area nonprofit organizations looking to attract new committee and Board members to their work. This annual event is a wonderful opportunity for potential volunteers to expand their talents, and for local service agencies to connect with a diverse audience.