Board Member – Dignity Restoration Project

Remote

Organizational Overview

The Dignity Restoration Project (DRP) is a pioneering initiative operating at the nexus of racial justice and economic equity. It seeks to rectify the profound injustices inflicted upon Detroit homeowners—predominantly African-American families—during the city’s property tax foreclosure crisis from 2009 to 2015. Over this period, unlawful over taxation, amounting to approximately $600 million, stripped more than 30,000 families of their homes and deepened America’s already staggering racial wealth gap. DRP is dedicated not only to securing financial restitution for the victims, but also to restoring dignity to those affected through comprehensive social and economic solutions. This initiative also aims to develop a scalable model for reparations with national significance.

Co-founded by Bernadette Atuahene, Esq., a respected law professor, Detroit resident, and fierce advocate for economic justice, DRP introduced the concept of “dignity restoration” as its guiding principle. This concept extends beyond financial compensation, acknowledging the deep psychological and emotional harm caused by the loss of property and its impact on personal dignity and agency. Professor Atuahene, a thought leader in this field, further explored the illegal tax foreclosure crisis in her New York Times Op-Ed, Scandal of a Predatory City.

Partnerships

Research: In partnership with Stanford University SPARQ, an esteemed behavioral science research center, we are designing a rigorous impact evaluation to understand the factors shaping public perceptions of reparations. This pioneering study on racial bias and inequality utilizes advanced social science research methodologies and is guided by a team of five skilled Principal Investigators: Dr. Catherine Thomas, Dr. Hazel Markus, New York Times Author of Biased, Dr. Jennifer Eberhardt, Dr. MarYam Hamedani, and Dr. Sara Constantin.

Fund Manager: UpTogether serves as the fund manager for DRP, reflecting a commitment to redefining poverty alleviation strategies. As a systems-change organization, UpTogether seeks to reshape policies, systems, and societal attitudes by investing in the inherent strengths of individuals across the United States. Their partnership with DRP ensures that funds are managed efficiently while empowering recipients, fostering autonomy, and promoting economic and social mobility within affected communities.

Incubator: DRP is incubated at the Global Development Incubator, which provides a comprehensive support framework designed to accelerate the impact of innovative projects globally. GDI’s extensive track record of success, including raising over $724 million in capital, highlights their dedication to nurturing and scaling initiatives that address systemic issues and promote inclusive global development.

Funders: The DRP is supported by a network of prestigious funders, including the Ford Foundation, the McGregor Foundation, the Compton Foundation, Global Development Incubator, Panorama Global, and the Hudson Webber Foundation.

If you are interested, share your LinkedIn profile with Ashawnda Fleming at ashawnda.fleming@dignityrestorationproject.org.

General Board Member

POSITION OVERVIEW

General Board Members play a vital role in the leadership team, guiding the strategic direction of the DRP. They work collaboratively to ensure that the organization achieves its mission with integrity, while meeting both short-term objectives and long-term goals. As stewards of the DRP, board members contribute their expertise, time, and resources to foster the organization’s sustainability and positive impact within the community.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Governance and Oversight: Participate in the development and oversight of the organization’s policies to ensure that the DRP adheres to all legal and ethical standards.
Strategic Planning: Contribute to the creation and implementation of the organization’s strategic plan, monitor progress, and assist in adapting strategies to achieve its objectives.
Financial Oversight: Review and approve the organizational budget, monitor financial performance, and ensure that operations are within budget. Assist in securing financial resources to support DRP’s programs and operations.
Fundraising and Donor Engagement: Actively engage in fundraising initiatives, including making personal contributions and cultivating donor relationships. Support and host fundraising events, leveraging both personal and professional networks to support the organization’s financial sustainability.
Mission Advocacy: Serve as an ambassador for the DRP by promoting its mission, values, and programs in the community. Increase organizational visibility through outreach and partnerships.
Program Support: Provide guidance and expertise to ensure that the DRP’s programs align with its mission and are effective in achieving desired outcomes.
Board Engagement: Attend and participate actively in board meetings and committee work. Collaborate with fellow board members to foster a productive and supportive governance environment.

QUALIFICATIONS

Deep commitment to the mission and values of the DRP.
Professional expertise or experience in relevant areas such as finance, law, marketing, public relations, human resources, fundraising, or nonprofit management.
Prior experience serving on nonprofit board experience is a plus.
Strong leadership, communication, and collaboration skills.
Ability to contribute time, financial resources, and professional expertise to support the organization.
Willingness to leverage personal and professional networks to advance the organization’s goals.

BOARD MEMBER EXPECTATIONS

Attend and actively participate in regular board meetings (held quarterly or as scheduled).
Serve on at least one board committee.
Contribute time, expertise, and financial support where appropriate.
Act as an ambassador for the DRP, advocating for its mission and work.

Marketing & Public Relations Board Member

POSITION OVERVIEW

The DRP Board Member specializing in Marketing and Public Relations (PR) will play a pivotal role in shaping the project’s marketing, branding, and communication strategies. Leveraging their expertise, this individual will help enhance the organization’s visibility, strengthen donor engagement, and support fundraising and community outreach efforts. As an integral member of the board, the Marketing and PR specialist will also contribute to overall governance, ensuring that the DRP remains aligned with its mission, values, and strategic objectives.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Marketing Guidance: Collaborate with the team to develop comprehensive marketing strategies that boost brand visibility, enhance donor engagement, and expand community outreach.
Public Relations Strategy: Provide strategic guidance on initiatives to enhance public image and foster positive relationships with stakeholders, including the media, the public, partners, and donors.
Social Media & Digital Campaigns: Advise the team on optimizing social media and digital marketing efforts to expand audience reach and strengthen campaign effectiveness.
Brand Management: Ensure that all external communications align with DRP’s brand and mission. Offer guidance on maintaining or refreshing branding as needed.
Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with board members and leadership to engage a diverse range of stakeholders, including media, corporate partners, community members, and supporters.
Fundraising Support: Leverage marketing and PR expertise to advise on campaigns that attract new donors, retain existing ones, and maximize fundraising potential.
Governance Participation: Actively participate in board meetings, committee work, and strategic planning, thereby contributing to decision-making across all areas of board governance.

QUALIFICATIONS

Proven experience in marketing, public relations, or communications.
Knowledge of Detroit’s property tax foreclosure crisis and/or the national reparations movement.
Strong expertise in brand management, media relations, and digital marketing.
Experience in nonprofit marketing or advocacy is an advantage.
Demonstrated leadership abilities and strategic thinking skills.
Exceptional communication and presentation skills.
A deep passion for the DRP’s mission and values.

BOARD MEMBER EXPECTATIONS

Attend and actively participate in regular board meetings (held quarterly or as scheduled).
Serve on at least one board committee.
Contribute time, expertise, and financial support where appropriate.
Act as an ambassador for the DRP, advocating for its mission and work.

Racial Repair & Justice Board Member

POSITION OVERVIEW
The Board Member specializing in Racial Repair and Justice will provide strategic guidance on aligning DRP’s work with national efforts to address historical racial inequities and promote racial healing. This individual will leverage their deep understanding of racial justice frameworks, policies, and initiatives related to racial repair in the U.S. As a board member, they will ensure that DRP’s programs, advocacy, and governance practices reflect a strong commitment to equity, justice, and systemic change.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Guidance on Racial Repair: Offer thought leadership and guidance on integrating racial repair and justice frameworks into DRP’s strategic goals, programs, and advocacy efforts.
Policy and Advocacy Insights: Advise on national policies and movements related to racial repair, reparations, and justice. Help align DRP’s advocacy efforts with broader national conversations on racial equity and social justice.
Community Engagement and Collaboration: Use expertise to build meaningful relationships with communities and organizations focused on racial repair and justice. Facilitate collaboration between the DRP, racial justice organizations, government entities, and thought leaders.
Governance and Leadership Development: Ensure that the board adopts policies and practices that reflect a commitment to racial inclusivity and diversity in leadership.
Fundraising and Resource Development: Support efforts to secure funding through grants and partnerships with organizations and foundations committed to social justice and equity.
6. Public Education and Outreach: Help engage the public on issues of racial repair by supporting communication and advocacy campaigns that raise awareness of systemic racism and the importance of racial healing.

QUALIFICATIONS

In-depth knowledge and experience with U.S. racial justice movements, policies on racial repair, reparations, and related social justice frameworks.
Proven experience working in racial equity, social justice, or civil rights advocacy.
Familiarity with national and community-level efforts to address racial inequities and promote racial healing.
Strong communication, leadership, and community engagement skills.
Demonstrated commitment to racial justice and a comprehensive understanding of systemic racism and its impacts in the U.S.
Prior board experience is advantageous.

BOARD MEMBER EXPECTATIONS

Attend and actively participate in regular board meetings (held quarterly or as scheduled).
Serve on at least one board committee.
Contribute time, expertise, and financial support where appropriate.
Act as an ambassador for the DRP, advocating for its mission and work.

Faith-Based Board Member

POSITION OVERVIEW

The DRP Board Member from the faith-based community will play a pivotal role in guiding the organization’s mission to dismantle systemic racial and economic inequalities, while ensuring our faith-based values are at the core of our actions. This is a unique opportunity to align your passion for social justice with your faith, leading efforts to promote justice and equity within our communities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Faith-Based Mission Alignment: Ensure that all DRP initiatives are grounded in the core principles and values of the faith community. Lead with a commitment to faith-inspired justice, making sure that spiritual and ethical perspectives inform decision-making.
Racial Justice & Economic Equity Advocacy: Provide counsel and thought leadership on issues related to racial justice and economic equity. Ensure DRP actively addresses racial repair, reparations, and justice while championing policies that promote fair economic opportunities.
Community Engagement & Faith Advocacy: Serve as a liaison between DRP and the faith-based community, mobilizing congregations and faith leaders around our mission. Act as an advocate for the DRP in religious, civic, and public forums.
Governance and Leadership Development: Ensure that the board adopts policies and practices that reflect a commitment to racial inclusivity and diversity in leadership.
Fundraising & Resource Development: Support the development of fundraising strategies, especially those focused on racial justice and economic equity programs. Leverage your faith-based networks to foster partnerships and attract donors who share a commitment to these causes.

QUALIFICATIONS

A strong personal commitment to the values of your faith and a desire to integrate your beliefs with social justice advocacy. Member of a congregation or religious institution that aligns with DRP’s mission.
Previous experience in racial justice, economic equity, or related advocacy within a faith-based or nonprofit setting. Knowledge of systemic racism and economic disparity issues is highly desirable.
Proven ability to lead strategically and collaboratively, with an understanding of how faith can inspire and drive social change.
A deep connection to the local faith-based community and an established presence in addressing racial and economic inequities.

BOARD MEMBER EXPECTATIONS

Attend and actively participate in regular board meetings (held quarterly or as scheduled).
Serve on at least one board committee.
Contribute time, expertise, and financial support where appropriate.
Act as an ambassador for the DRP, advocating for its mission and work.

Foundation Affiliated Board Member

POSITION OVERVIEW
The DRP board member with connections to the foundation funder community will leverage his/her professional network within foundations, businesses, and high net-worth individuals to support the strategic growth and financial sustainability of DRP. This individual will leverage his/her expertise and connections in philanthropy, corporate partnerships, and donor relations to help drive initiatives that align with DRP’s mission.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Fundraising & Resource Development: Utilize your connections within foundations, businesses, and high-net-worth individuals to identify, cultivate, and secure significant funding opportunities. Help establish relationships with potential donors, sponsors, and partners who can support DRP’s strategic goals.
Corporate & Foundation Partnerships: Leverage your expertise to help DRP build and maintain strong partnerships with foundations and corporate entities. Guide the board in developing strategies for accessing grants, corporate sponsorships, and philanthropic opportunities.
High-Value Donor Cultivation: Actively participate in identifying and engaging high net-worth individuals who align with DRP’s mission. Provide introductions and help cultivate meaningful relationships that lead to major gifts and long-term support.
Advocacy & External Relations: Serve as an ambassador for the organization in the philanthropic community. Advocate for DRP’s cause and elevate its visibility through your professional networks and at key industry events.
Governance and Leadership Development: Ensure that the board adopts policies and practices that reflect a commitment to racial inclusivity and diversity in leadership.

QUALIFICATIONS

Experience working within a foundation, corporate giving program, or philanthropic setting. Strong knowledge of the fundraising landscape and the ability to navigate relationships with major donors and corporate entities.
Well-established connections within foundations, businesses, and a network of high net-worth individuals. A demonstrated ability to leverage these relationships to secure funding or partnerships.
Previous experience serving on a board or in a leadership role within the nonprofit or philanthropic sector is preferred. Proven ability to provide strategic guidance and governance oversight.
A passion for DRP’s cause and a desire to make a meaningful impact by using your network and expertise to further its mission.

BOARD MEMBER EXPECTATIONS

Attend and actively participate in regular board meetings (held quarterly or as scheduled).
Serve on at least one board committee.
Contribute time, expertise, and financial support where appropriate.
Act as an ambassador for the DRP, advocating for its mission and work.