Volunteer Board Member

Help Build a More Inclusive World Through Storytelling

Tellin’ Tales Theatre is an award-winning nonprofit organization that brings together people with and without disabilities to share personal stories through innovative theatrical productions, educational programs, and community engagement.

For nearly 30 years, Tellin’ Tales has helped shatter barriers between the disabled and non-disabled worlds by creating spaces where authentic stories foster understanding, acceptance, empathy, and connection.

As we prepare for our next stage of growth, we are seeking dedicated volunteer Board Members who believe in the power of inclusion, storytelling, education, advocacy, and the arts.

Who We’re Especially Looking For Right Now

While we welcome applicants from all backgrounds, we are actively seeking individuals with one or more of the following experiences, perspectives, or connections:

Finance & Accounting Professionals

Individuals with expertise in accounting, bookkeeping, financial planning, auditing, banking, nonprofit finance, or treasury functions who can help strengthen financial oversight and sustainability.

People with Disabilities

We are committed to ensuring that lived experience remains central to our leadership and decision-making. We strongly encourage individuals with disabilities to apply.

Parents, Caregivers, and Family Members

People who have firsthand experience supporting children, youth, or adults with disabilities and who are passionate about creating inclusive opportunities.

Fundraising & Development Leaders

Professionals with experience in donor cultivation, sponsorships, grant development, corporate partnerships, annual giving campaigns, or nonprofit resource development.

Marketing & Communications Professionals

Individuals who can help expand awareness of Tellin’ Tales through branding, public relations, digital marketing, media relations, storytelling, and community outreach.

Community Connectors

People who have strong relationships throughout Chicago’s business, education, disability, nonprofit, arts, healthcare, or civic communities and enjoy opening doors to new partnerships and opportunities.

Arts, Education & Advocacy Leaders

Educators, administrators, artists, advocates, social service professionals, and leaders who believe in the transformative power of inclusive arts programming.

Board Responsibilities

Board Members serve as ambassadors, advocates, and strategic partners for the organization.

Responsibilities include:

• Attend six Board meetings annually, including the annual Board Retreat
• Serve on at least one Board committee
• Review meeting materials and actively participate in discussions
• Support the organization’s mission, strategic planning, and growth
• Assist with fundraising and relationship-building efforts
• Help expand organizational visibility and community awareness
• Attend performances, special events, and community programs when possible
• Identify prospective donors, volunteers, audience members, and future board candidates
• Fulfill fiduciary responsibilities through financial and governance oversight
• Support Tellin’ Tales’ commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and belonging

Board Member Expectations

• Consistent attendance and engagement
• Participation on at least one committee
• Annual “Give or Get” contribution of $500 through personal giving and/or fundraising efforts
• Commitment to acting as a visible ambassador for Tellin’ Tales Theatre
• Dedication to diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion
• Collaborative and mission-focused leadership

What You’ll Gain

Serving on the Tellin’ Tales Board offers the opportunity to:

• Make a meaningful impact in the disability and arts communities
• Help shape the future of a respected Chicago nonprofit
• Develop nonprofit governance and leadership experience
• Build relationships with artists, advocates, educators, and community leaders
• Support programs that empower children and adults to tell their stories and be heard

About Tellin’ Tales Theatre

Tellin’ Tales Theatre’s mission is to shatter barriers between the disabled and non-disabled worlds through the transformative power of personal story. Through inclusive productions, workshops, mentoring programs, and educational initiatives, we create opportunities for connection, understanding, and belonging.

We are committed to building a Board that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, abilities, identities, and lived experiences.

To learn more, visit TellinTales.org.