Many blogs and news articles paint a discouraging picture for people who are interested in serving on an HOA Board. It’s sometimes referenced as a “thankless job” that is a lot of work. While it can involve a lot of work, serving your community offers many benefits. Let’s look at what’s in it for you.
Protect Your Investment
When you’re on the homeowner association Board, you’re directly involved in deciding how property maintenance and issues are handled. You hear the pros and cons for decisions. Serving on the Board is an excellent way to create a successful community where you enjoy living. You’re also involved in helping protect your property investment.
Strengthen Relationships
Volunteering to serve on your HOA Board is a great way to meet your neighbors. You’ll find that it broadens your network of acquaintances, which connects you to people with common interests. It’s not unusual for Board members to develop lifelong relationships with neighbors and other people they meet while conducting HOA business.
Improve Your Health
According to a survey by United Health Group and the Optum Institute, 76 percent of volunteers say that volunteering has a positive impact on their health. While this survey included all types of volunteers, we hear some of these same things from our clients who are Board members. Survey findings include:
Health: volunteers say that they feel better – physically, mentally and emotionally;
Stress: volunteering helps people manage and lower their stress levels;
Purpose: volunteers feel a deeper connection to communities and to others;
Engagement: volunteers are typically more involved in managing their health.
Develop Your Skills
Volunteering offers a chance to gain experience in a new area or hone your existing talents. If you’re in the market for a new job or promotion, volunteer work can benefit your career. As a member of your HOA Board, you can sharpen your skills in business management, public speaking, communication, finance and many others. Plus, you have the satisfaction of helping create a thriving community.
Stay Active and Connected
Stay-at-home moms and dads who are raising their children can stay active and challenged by serving on their HOA Board. If you’re planning to re-enter the workforce, it’s an excellent way to fill the gaps on your resume. Volunteering helps retirees maintain a social network. Serving your community often helps even the busiest people achieve a better work-life balance. It’s the special magic of volunteerism.
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Wise Property Solutions is East Tennessee’s only Accredited Association Management Company (AAMC®). As the region’s leader in community association management, the firm is committed to the industry’s best practices and continuing professional development. Wise Property Solutions’ certified and highly trained property managers empower well-organized and efficient communities. The firm maintains offices in both Knoxville and the Tri-Cities.