First Book-Metro Phoenix

Volunteering for First Book is a rewarding experience. It allows individuals to become connected with the community through giving. It also educates individuals about the inequities faced in our own community.

We are looking for passionate volunteers who want to make a difference in the community. We offer wonderful opportunities to directly impact the quality of children's lives — through the magic of books. We host several events per year that raise funds for books, spread the word about First Book and have fun in the process.

For more information on how to join or volunteer with First Book-Metro Phoenix or other ways to get involved, please email us. You can also contact the First Book national office.

Advisory Board Volunteer Positions

Our board is currently recruiting for: Advisory Board Members

First Book Advisory Boards have five main tasks:

• To build an Advisory Board that represents a professional and cultural cross-section of the community interested in literacy initiatives.
• To identify local literacy organizations qualified to receive books.
• To conduct fundraising efforts to fund book grants.
• To award book grants to Recipient Groups at least once a year.
• To promote and participate in First Book national partnership initiatives on the local level.

Positions within the board may vary according to the size and activity of a particular advisory board, but most boards have the following positions:

Chair

The primary responsibility of the Advisory Board Chair is to convene a local group of volunteer board members who then raise funds that are used to distribute book grants to local literacy organizations. This position is critical to ensuring that the Advisory Board meets regularly, formulates yearly fundraising and book granting goals, and achieves a high level of sustainability. The Advisory Board Chair serves as the liaison between the Advisory Board and First Book's national office, facilitates local Advisory Board meetings, and provides leadership to the board in the areas of fundraising and community outreach. The role of Advisory Board Chair requires approximately 15-20 hours per month. Board chair time commitment and responsibilities can be divided between co-chairs.

Treasurer

The primary responsibility of the Advisory Board Treasurer is to keep track of all funds that have been raised locally or distributed to the board through National Corporate Partners. The Treasurer also keeps track of all award grants and ensures that funds are accounted for properly. The Treasurer is a critical link to the broader Advisory Board and must ensure that the Board is aware of and understands its financial position. The role of Treasurer requires approximately 10-15 hours per month.

Fundraising Chair

The primary responsibility of the Fundraising Chair is to develop and execute a Fundraising Strategy for the local advisory board. The Fundraising Chair works closely with the Board Chair and the Treasurer to keep track of the success of the board's fundraising activities. The role of Fundraising Chair requires approximately 10-15 hours per month.

Recipient Group Liaison

The primary responsibilities of a Advisory Board Recipient Group Liaison are to identify potential recipient groups, send out grant applications, keep track of the status of past grants, and work with First Book's National Office on special projects related to Recipient Groups. The role of Recipient Group Liaison requires approximately 5-10 hours per month.

Advisory Board Member

The primary responsibilities of an Advisory Board Member are to reach out to the community, fundraise, identify recipient groups, and recruit new volunteers. A member participates in Advisory Board meetings and works with other members to host events, conduct fundraisers, maintain recipient group relations, and distribute books. Board members should expect to volunteer 4-6 hours per month.