You Are Invited
Join the SOSC Board of Directors
Help Shape a More Inclusive Southern California
Special Olympics Southern California (SOSC) is launching our next Board recruitment phase, and we are seeking values-driven leaders who want to make a meaningful difference for people with intellectual disabilities and the communities they are part of.
Serving on the SOSC Board is both a responsibility and a unique opportunity: to help guide an organization with deep community roots, measurable impact, and a mission centered on dignity, inclusion, and joy through the power of sports.
Why Serve on the Board?
Being a board member at SOSC means more than governance. It means partnership. Our board members:
- Help advance a mission that promotes acceptance, inclusion, and well-being through sports, health and leadership programs.
- Use their professional experience, lived experience, and networks to strengthen our impact.
- Serve as advocates and ambassadors for athletes and families across Southern California.
- Partner closely with staff leadership to ensure long-term sustainability and strong governance.
Many board members describe the experience as deeply meaningful, grounded in service, connection to athletes, and shared purpose.
Who We’re Looking For?
We are seeking prospective board members who:
- Believe in the dignity, potential, and meaningful inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities.
- Bring skills, expertise, or perspectives that strengthen our board.
- Are willing to engage actively, not passively.
- Are connectors who enjoy building relationships and opening doors.
- Reflect diverse backgrounds, experiences, ages, geographies, and viewpoints.
Professional backgrounds may include (but are not limited to): business, finance, law, healthcare, marketing, technology, education, government, entrepreneurship, or nonprofit leadership. The right person matters more than the right résumé.
What Is Expected of a Board Member?
Board members are not expected to do everything, but they are expected to be engaged, accountable, and supportive of the mission.
Time & Engagement
- Attend quarterly board meetings.
- Serve on at least one committee, attending committee meetings.
- Participate in key SOSC events (such as competitions or major fundraisers)
- Prepare for meetings and engage thoughtfully in governance discussions.
Stewardship & Leadership
- Uphold fiduciary and legal responsibilities of a nonprofit board member.
- Help set and monitor strategic direction.
- Serve as an ambassador for SOSC in the community.
Philanthropic Partnership
- Make an annual personal contribution that is meaningful to you.
- Support fundraising efforts by opening doors, making introductions, or leveraging networks.
Board Committees
Board members typically serve on one or more committees aligned with their interests and expertise,
Board recruitment, orientation, governance policies, and director performance.
Fundraising strategy, development planning, and revenue diversification.
Organizational values, internal culture, DEI initiatives, and leadership.
Digital infrastructure, data systems, cybersecurity, and technology strategy.
Volunteer recruitment, training, recognition, and retention.
Program quality, participant outcomes, service expansion, and evaluation.
Brand, external communications, social media, public relations, public affairs, and storytelling.
Accounting, financial management, investment & capital strategy, audit, legal consulting.
A Thoughtful Recruitment Process
If you were referred to this page, it means someone believes you could be a strong fit for SOSC’s Board.
We are intentional about our recruitment process. We ask that all prospective board members:
- Are aware they are being recommended.
- Have interest in board service.
- Are open to learning more before moving forward.
Submitting interest does not obligate you to serve. It starts a conversation.
Interested in Learning More?
We would welcome the opportunity to connect, answer questions, and explore whether board service at SOSC is a good mutual fit.
Next Steps
Speak with the person who referred you.
- Complete our brief board interest form.
- Connect with a member of our Nominating & Governance Committee.
Thank You
for considering a leadership role which helps shape a more inclusive Southern California.
Special Olympics Southern California serves thousands of athletes across 11 counties and offers year round sports, leadership, and wellness programs that change lives through the power of sport.
