FOCUS BoardBridge

Applications are now closed for our fall 2024 round of FOCUS BoardBridge! 

Increasing the diversity of our St. Louis nonprofit boards is essential if we are to be a more inclusive region. Launched as a pilot test in fall 2023, BoardBridge is an initiative of FOCUS St. Louis designed to help connect nonprofit boards and diverse candidates through a matching process. FOCUS BoardBridge aims to complement other St. Louis board recruitment initiatives, not replace them.

For nonprofits, the program offers the benefit of diversifying your leadership pipeline and expanding your pool of potential board members.

For individuals, serving on a nonprofit board offers the opportunity to support causes you're passionate about, give back to your community, strengthen your leadership skills and make new connections.

The program is currently offered at no cost for 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations and individuals interested in serving on boards, with matching rounds held in the spring and fall.

Here's what some of our past participants had to say about the experience:

  • “This is one of THE most significant and effective programs we have been a part of. The need for interested board members is always present and this process was truly exemplary ... not complicated, not a ton of time and 100% effective in introducing our organization to future board members."
  • “This is a wonderful program and you've done a great job of matching candidates with the skills we were looking for as well as those who have a genuine interest in being part of our organization.”
  • “Great program - simple yet effective. Very helpful in finding board members outside of the normal 'who we know' process."

Download our Info Sheet.



Want to serve on a board? 

FOCUS BoardBridge is for diverse professionals from all sectors and industries who:

  • Desire greater civic and community leadership involvement
  • Are looking to contribute their time, treasure and talents to causes they are passionate about
  • Have the time and interest to commit to serving on a nonprofit board or committee

Before being matched, candidates must participate in a a virtual Orientation on Oct. 8 from 12-1 p.m., which will provide an overview of the board matching process, along with best practices and tips for serving on a board.

Applications for our fall round are now closed for nonprofits, as we have reached capacity. If interested, you may sign up via our waiting list to be notified if a spot becomes available.

Want to diversify your board?

FOCUS BoardBridge is for nonprofits who:

  • Desire to expand their circle of potential board candidates
  • Are committed to principles of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging
  • Are looking to welcome new board members, especially those from diverse backgrounds

Before being matched, each nonprofit must have a staff/board member participate in a virtual Orientation on Oct. 15 from 12-1 p.m., which will provide an overview of the board matching process, along with best practices and tips for diversifying your board.

Applications for our fall round are now closed for nonprofits, as we have reached capacity. If interested, you may sign up via our waiting list to be notified if a spot becomes available.

If you have any questions regarding FOCUS BoardBridge or the application process, please contact Becky Rasmussen at beckyr@focus-stl.org.