Board Ready Burke: Building Burke County's Next Generation of Civic Leaders
When Burke County United Way launched Board Ready Burke earlier this month, we knew there was interest in civic leadership—but the response exceeded our expectations. Thirty-one Burke County residents are now participating in our inaugural cohort, learning how to serve effectively on nonprofit boards and shape our community's future.
Made possible through a Civic Hubs Business Grant from The Industrial Commons, Board Ready Burke is removing barriers to civic participation and creating clear pathways for diverse community voices to engage in local decision-making. Over three Tuesday evenings in February, participants have been gaining essential knowledge about board governance through curriculum facilitated by WNC Nonprofit Pathways.
"This program is about more than filling board seats—it's about ensuring all voices can shape Burke County's future," said Maureen "Mo" Schwind, Executive Director at Burke County United Way. "We're cultivating active community leaders who will strengthen democratic participation and build a more inclusive, responsive, and resilient community through sustained civic engagement."
Jeannette Butterworth, Director of WNC Nonprofit Pathways, highlighted the program's timely relevance: "Board Ready Burke is about neighbors learning how local nonprofits work so they can pull up a chair and help make decisions. In the wake of Hurricane Helene, people here have shown how much they care about one another, and many are looking for the next way to pitch in. This project gives folks a clear, welcoming path into board service."
Celebration & Connection Next Week
Next Tuesday, February 24th, our first Board Ready Burke cohort will gather for their final session at the Morganton Community House. The evening will begin with a certificate ceremony recognizing their commitment to civic leadership, followed by an exciting "speed dating" event that connects graduates directly with local nonprofits seeking board members.
This unique networking opportunity creates immediate pathways for newly trained civic champions to put their skills into action—transforming learning into leadership and commitment into community impact.
Board Ready Burke represents Burke County United Way's continued commitment to strengthening civic infrastructure and ensuring diverse community representation in local leadership. For 70 years, we've worked to support and sustain stronger families, and programs like this help ensure our community has the engaged leaders needed to carry that mission forward.
Interested in future cohorts? Visit bcuw.org/brb to learn more and contact us to hear about future sessions.
