Spokes | Resources for Nonprofits

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Nonprofit Board Service

Did you know there are more than 1,500 charitable nonprofit organizations in San Luis Obispo County? By law, each of them must be governed by a board of directors.

Serving as a director on a nonprofit board offers valuable benefits to both you and your community. You’ll develop leadership skills, expand your network, and make a meaningful impact on a cause you care about. Your volunteer service ensures the organization stays mission-focused and effective, supporting positive change and enhancing the quality of life in your community.

In the video below, Spokes CEO Michael Simkins addresses members of the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce, sharing deeper insights into the benefits of nonprofit board service—and why it’s a valuable opportunity for everyone. He emphasizes the importance of local employers supporting and encouraging employee involvement, highlighting the transferable skills employees gain and bring back to the workplace.

Interested in serving on a nonprofit board but unsure about the responsibilities and level of commitment involved? Spokes offers a free, live 45-minute online class—Board Service 101—quarterly.

Register for an upcoming live session:

June 10

September 9

December 9

Or, view the following recording of a past Board Service 101 class:

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Member Testimonial

“Many times you do not want to go to a meeting or conference or class, but you do anyway because you’re hoping to hear that one idea that can be truly beneficial. Every time I have gone to Spokes, I’ve come away with more than one of those ideas.  The resources they offer have been critical to the progress of our foundation. The experts they host have always been high caliber, and Spokes provided a direct connection to a grant writer who has helped us tremendously.”

Frank Kalman
Executive Director
Kids Cancer Research Foundation
San Luis Obispo, California

What Else Are Members Saying?

Learn about Spokes membership

Guiding nonprofits to achieve their goals through support and expert resources.

How Can We Make A Difference Together?

Spokes welcomes local professionals who would like to share their expertise in support of the nonprofit sector.

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Photography by Nicole Boughton.