About Twende Solar:
Twende Solar is a Portland, Oregon–based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that empowers energy-deficient communities by installing renewable energy systems worldwide. We bring together solar professionals who volunteer their time and expertise to power schools, community centers, and healthcare facilities, from Portland to Ghana.
Around 665 million people still lack access to dependable energy. We believe renewable energy is key to reducing poverty, strengthening economies, and protecting ecosystems. Twende means "let's go" in Swahili, and it describes how we work.
Position Details:
We’re recruiting volunteer board members for terms beginning in 2027 to help communities worldwide achieve energy independence through sustainable solar power.
Responsibilities:
Lead and govern: Attend monthly board meetings and the annual retreat. Come prepared, having reviewed circulated materials, and respond promptly to email and decision requests.
Serve on a committee: Take an active role on at least one committee or task force.
Fundraise: We ask board members to support Twende Solar financially in a way that fits their means. We know people can contribute in many ways, so we also welcome support through your time, talents, and network.
Be an ambassador: Know Twende Solar's mission, values, and programs well, and introduce us to useful community and industry contacts.
Grow the board: Help recruit future board members.
Collaborate: Share your views openly, consider others' views with an open mind, and assume good intentions. We welcome healthy debate that makes our work more intentional and effective.
Candidates:
We're especially interested in candidates with skills and experience in one or more of these areas:
Renewable energy: Solar PV systems or related fields such as sustainability, energy access, or international development, and broad connections across the solar industry
Nonprofit governance and leadership: Board service, executive-level decision-making, or business or nonprofit management, with a strong understanding of board roles and responsibilities in a mission-driven organization
Finance: Budgeting, financial oversight, or treasurer experience
Fundraising: Grants, sponsorships, donor engagement, or capital campaigns
Strategy: Strategic planning, organizational development, and risk management
Renewable energy: Solar PV systems or related fields such as sustainability, energy access, or international development, and broad connections across the solar industry
Communication and advocacy: Relationship-building, public speaking, and representing an organization in external forums
Most of all, we want people who care about Twende Solar's mission and vision and are excited to help the organization grow.
Time Commitment:
Expect 5 - 10 hours per month.
Why Join the Twende Solar Board?
Make a real difference. Around 665 million people still live without electricity. As a board member, you will help bring solar power to schools, community centers, and healthcare facilities, from Portland to Ghana. Your decisions will have a direct impact on the communities we serve.
Help shape the future of the organization. You will help set our direction, strengthen our programs, and build the foundation for our next stage of growth.
Work alongside passionate people. Our board and volunteers include solar professionals and community leaders who care deeply about energy access. You will be part of a team that values open conversation, healthy debate, and good intentions.
Grow your skills and network. Board service is a chance to build leadership experience in governance, finance, and fundraising. You will also connect with people across the solar industry and the nonprofit world.
Serve from anywhere. Our meetings are always virtual or hybrid, so you can contribute wherever you are.
Be part of something bigger. We are working toward a world where electricity is a right for all, and we would love to have you join us on the way.
How to Apply:
Apply at: https://tinyurl.com/twendeboard27
We look forward to reading your application and learning how you could contribute to our mission.
Questions? Contact our Executive Director, Violet Crabb, at violet@twendesolar.org