Board Member (Volunteer)
Founded in 1920 as the Prisoners’ Aid Society, DCJ has a mission to “listen, amplify, and act to seek justice for all Delawareans through advocacy and services”. For over 100 years, DCJ has led efforts to improve Delaware’s justice landscape – from pushing for early reforms like a separate women’s prison and the abolition of the whipping post, to championing modern legislation. Today, DCJ is both a direct service provider and an influential policy advocate, uniquely operating in both spaces to drive systemic change. Our programs serve youth and adults through evidence-based reentry support, restorative justice initiatives, victim services, and more, seeking justice for each individual as we seek justice for all.
DCJ’s impact is far-reaching. We have “listened, amplified, and acted” to meet the immediate needs of those impacted by Delaware’s criminal legal system while advocating for non-partisan policy reform for decades. Our work is wide-ranging – from picking up recently released individuals at the prison gate to helping justice-involved people secure housing and jobs (over 500 job placements since last July alone). This dual approach of service and advocacy has driven real change: DCJ’s advocacy was instrumental in the historic passage of 11 justice reform bills in a recent Delaware legislative session. We continue to tackle issues like ending mass incarceration, reforming policing and pre-trial practices, abolishing the death penalty, expanding restorative justice, and combating systemic racism. Through initiatives like the “105th Anniversary – Lead the Way to Justice” campaign, which invited supporters to contribute $1,500+ to fuel reentry programs, youth services, and bold system change, DCJ has demonstrated its commitment to innovative solutions and community-driven support.
At DCJ, our values center on equity, transparency, safety, and healing. We believe in second chances and the power of lived experience – many of our successes are driven by amplifying the voices of those directly impacted by injustice. We are re-committing to “a vision of justice for all Delawareans like we’ve never known before,” co-creating a community that truly embodies equity and inclusion. Our culture is compassionate, inclusive, and client-focused: we know that justice requires addressing root causes (like access to jobs, education, and housing) and dismantling systemic barriers. In short, DCJ’s primary role in Delaware is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for those we serve and to lead the charge for systemic reforms that make our communities safer and more just
JOB DESCRIPTION
Team: DCJ Board
Reports to: Board of Directors
Pay Rate: N/A
Service Area: N/A
Travel Required: Rarely
Position Type: NA
Role and Responsibilities
DCJ’s Board of Directors is the governing body responsible for the overall strategic direction, policy oversight, and financial stewardship of the organization. As a Board Member, you will play a critical leadership role in advancing DCJ’s mission and ensuring the organization’s health and integrity. Key responsibilities include:
- Mission & Strategy: Embrace and uphold DCJ’s mission, values, and vision in all decisions. Board Members collaboratively set the organization’s strategic goals and ensure DCJ’s programs and advocacy initiatives align with its mission of justice for all Delawareans. This includes staying informed about DCJ’s key campaigns (e.g. reentry services, youth programs, policy reform efforts) and shaping our strategic agenda for greater community impact.
- Governance & Oversight: Provide fiduciary and governance oversight for DCJ’s operations. The Board collectively manages the business and affairs of the organization in accordance with DCJ’s bylaws and nonprofit best practices. This involves reviewing and approving budgets and financial reports, ensuring legal and ethical compliance, and evaluating the Executive Director’s performance. Each Board Member is expected to exercise due care in organizational decisions and help maintain DCJ’s high standards of transparency and accountability.
- Meetings & Committees: Actively participate in Board meetings and committees. Per DCJ’s bylaws, the Board meets at least six (6) times per year, with additional special meetings as needed. Members are expected to attend these regular meetings (in-person or virtually) and contribute meaningfully to discussions. Board Members also typically serve on at least one committee (e.g., Finance, Governance, Programs, Fundraising or Advocacy Committee), where much of the detailed work and planning occurs. Through committee involvement, members use their expertise to advance specific aspects of DCJ’s work.
- Advocacy & Ambassadorship: Serve as an ambassador for DCJ in the community. Board Members should be willing to advocate for DCJ’s initiatives and the populations we serve, helping to raise awareness about issues like criminal justice reform, reentry support, and victims’ services. This could include attending or speaking at community events, engaging with policymakers or stakeholders, and leveraging personal and professional networks to amplify DCJ’s message. Board Members may also support DCJ’s public events (such as the annual Visions of Justice forum or other outreach programs) to represent the organization and connect with supporters.
- Fundraising & Resource Development: Play an active role in ensuring DCJ’s financial sustainability. Board Members are expected to assist in fundraising efforts by tapping into their networks for donor cultivation, corporate sponsorships, and fundraising events. This includes contributing to or helping solicit contributions for campaigns like DCJ’s recent 105th Anniversary “Lead the Way to Justice” campaign, which supports crucial programs. Every Board Member contributes to building DCJ’s capacity – whether through direct donations, connecting the organization to funding opportunities, or providing guidance on resource development strategy.
- Organizational Support: Lend your expertise to strengthen DCJ’s operations and programs. Board Members with professional skills (e.g. in law, finance, advocacy, etc.) may be called on for advice in their area of expertise. All members collaborate with staff leadership on high-level organizational policies, help monitor program outcomes, and guide DCJ’s long-term sustainability and growth. Importantly, Board Members also serve as mentors and advisors to the leadership team, bringing outside perspectives and ensuring DCJ stays true to its mission and values as it evolves.
All Board Members serve as volunteers (this is an unpaid governance role) and are fiduciaries of the organization. Terms & Time Commitment: Board Members are elected to an initial one-year orientation term and are then eligible for two additional consecutive three-year terms (for a potential total of 7 years of service). Regular Board meetings are held bimonthly (approximately six times per year), usually in Wilmington, DE or via remote conference. Between meetings, members may spend a few hours per month on committee work, preparation, or attending DCJ events. The expected overall time commitment averages ~5–10 hours per month. This role is based in Delaware; some meetings or events may require local attendance, while others can be attended virtually.
Qualifications and Education Requirements
We are looking for dedicated, mission-driven individuals who will bring passion, expertise, and diverse perspectives to our Board. Ideal candidates may demonstrate one or more of the following qualifications:
- Fundraising & Development Expertise: Experience in nonprofit fundraising, philanthropy, or resource development. For example, you might have skills in donor relations, event planning, grant writing, or corporate partnerships. The ability to leverage networks for fundraising and a willingness to champion DCJ’s fundraising campaigns (such as our recent 1.5 Campaign, fueling reentry and youth programs) are highly valued.
- Advocacy & Community Leadership: Background in social justice advocacy, public policy, community organizing, or legal reform. We welcome candidates who have worked on issues related to criminal justice (e.g. reforming sentencing, reentry support, victims’ rights, juvenile justice, etc.) or who have professional legal experience (attorneys, public defenders, policy advisors). Your insight can help DCJ shape effective advocacy strategies and strengthen our voice in advancing systemic change.
- Financial / Accounting Acumen: Professionals with strong finance skills – such as accountants (CPA), finance managers, or business executives – are encouraged to apply. The Board relies on members with financial expertise to oversee budgeting, audits, and fiscal strategy. If you have experience in nonprofit financial management, auditing, or accounting controls, you could play a key role (potentially as a Treasurer or Finance Committee member) in safeguarding DCJ’s economic health.
- Commitment to Mission & Equity: First and foremost, successful Board Members share a deep commitment to DCJ’s mission of justice and equity. We seek individuals who are passionate about creating a safer, more just Delaware and aligning with DCJ’s values of equity, transparency, safety, and healing. A demonstrated understanding of the challenges facing justice-involved populations and a desire to amplify the voices of those with lived experience are essential.
- Teamwork & Leadership: Effective Board service requires collaboration and strong interpersonal skills. We value Board Members who are proactive, willing to learn, and able to work respectfully in a team of diverse professionals. Previous experience serving on a nonprofit board or a leadership position (while not required) can be a plus. Equally important is the ability to think strategically, ask thoughtful questions, and engage in constructive governance of a growing organization.
- Time and Resource Commitment: Candidates must be willing to invest the necessary time for Board meetings, committee participation, and DCJ events. We also seek Board Members who will actively use their personal and professional resources to further DCJ’s goals – whether that’s through networking, outreach, or personal giving at a level meaningful to you. Every Board Member contributes uniquely, but all share responsibility for the organization’s success.
Apply
To apply – please submit your cover letter and resume in the appropriate boxes below. If you are experiencing difficulty submitting your files, or have questions about the process, please contact us at center@dcjustice.org
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