Join GCHIC's Board of Directors!
If you've come to this page, we assume you've read or heard about GCHIC and are interested in becoming part of our team. Great! Well, please read on!
Do you care about the Greater Capitol Heights area – which includes the cities of Fairmount Heights, Seat Pleasant, Glenarden, Capitol Heights, and District Heights?
Would you like to see development that makes this area a vibrant, walkable community, with restaurants, retail, and a grocery store?
Do you possess skills or interest in fundraising, social media, communications, accounting, urban planning, transit-oriented design, community development, or economic development?
If so, we invite you to apply to our Board and become a driving force in bringing smart growth and development to our region.
Greater Capitol Heights Improvement Corporation – affectionately nicknamed GCHIC (pronounced “GEE-chick”) – is seeking new Board Members who share its mission to stimulate revitalization, redevelopment, and reinvestment in the inner-Beltway gateway communities of central Prince George’s County, Maryland. GCHIC Board Members govern and oversee GCHIC’s operations, execute our strategic plan, and ensure that the organization operates in compliance with legal and ethical standards.
What Does a Board Member Do?
As a GCHIC Board member, you will play a crucial role in advancing our mission. Your expertise and skills will contribute to the following initiatives:
Empowering the Community: We believe in the power of an engaged community. By joining the Board, you will have the opportunity to empower residents, business owners, and nonprofits to actively participate in shaping the future of our region.
Collaborating for Success: We recognize that achieving our goals requires strategic partnerships. As a board member, you will collaborate with federal, state, and local government agencies, as well as private organizations, to align strategies and priorities that promote sustainable development.
Advocating for Change: We are committed to fostering efficient, accessible, accountable, and responsive local government. By serving on the board, you will advocate for the interests of our community, ensuring that our voices are heard and our needs are met.
Driving Economic Growth: GCHIC believes in the power of economic development and transformative placemaking. With your contribution, we will promote economic and housing development, job creation, and the creation of vibrant spaces that enhance our community.
Enhancing Livability: Our board members actively shape land use, zoning, environmental, and transportation policies to enhance livability. By joining us, you will contribute to creating a healthier, more interactive, and recreational community for all.
What would my specific responsibilities be?
Board members serve in a volunteer capacity for a period of three years, dedicating their time, skills, and expertise to the betterment of our community. Specifically, Board members:
Support and champion GCHIC's mission to stimulate revitalization, redevelopment, and reinvestment in the Greater Capitol Heights area. (Direct connections to the area are a plus.)
Prepare for, attend, and conscientiously participate in twice monthly board meetings. The Board meets on the first and third Wednesdays of the month from 6 - 7:30 pm -- the exceptions are the month of August and the third Wednesday in December.
Spend approximately3 to 4 hours per week (12-16 hours per month) outside of Board meetings, carrying out the work of GCHIC.
Leverage connections, networks and resources to achieve the organization's mission.
Give a meaningful personal financial donation, solicit donations, and otherwise participate in the organization's fundraising efforts.
Participate fully in one or more board committees and help advance initiatives on behalf of the organization outside of board meetings.
Follow GCHIC's bylaws, policies, and board resolutions.
Maintain confidentiality about all internal matters of the organization.
Ensure legal and ethical integrity (duties of care, loyalty, and obedience).
Great! So how do I apply?
Individuals interested in Board membership should complete this brief application. A GCHIC representative will contact you within one week to set up a meeting to get to know you and to give you a chance to learn more about the organization.
If you have any questions about the process, you may contact Board Vice President, Anika Gzifa.