Welcome! We’re excited you’re here. This FAQ is designed to support your decision-making as you explore joining the Deaf Spotlight Board. 

Deaf Spotlight is more than an arts organization—we are a community-centered, equity-driven space that uplifts Deaf, DeafBlind, DeafDisabled, and Hard of Hearing artists, cultures, and languages. We are seeking thoughtful, curious, and committed individuals who are ready to contribute to an organization grounded in diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA)—not just in words, but in action. 

Below are some common questions to help you reflect on whether this opportunity aligns with your values, skills, and goals. 

What is Deaf Spotlight’s mission? 

Deaf Spotlight’s mission is to inspire, showcase, and celebrate Deaf Culture and Sign Languages through the arts, centering Deaf-led creativity and storytelling. We are deeply committed to amplifying historically marginalized voices within the Deaf community, including DeafBlind, DeafDisabled, and BIPOC Deaf artists. 

How many members are on the board? 

Our bylaws allow for up to 11 board members. At least 51% of the board identifies as Deaf, DeafDisabled, DeafBlind, or Hard of Hearing, ensuring Deaf leadership remains at the core of our governance. Up to 49% of members may be hearing allies who demonstrate strong alignment with our mission and DEIA values. 

Is this a voluntary position? 

Yes. All board members serve on a volunteer basis, contributing their time, expertise, and networks in support of Deaf Spotlight’s mission and community. 

How long is the board term? 

Board members serve a 2-year term, with opportunities for renewal. 

What if I don’t have an arts background—can I still apply? 

Yes! While we are an arts organization, we intentionally seek diverse perspectives and skill sets. Experience in areas such as finance, fundraising, communications, advocacy, governance, or community organizing is incredibly valuable. Your lived experience and commitment to equity matter just as much as your professional background. 

Is previous board experience required? How will I learn what I need to know? 

Previous board experience is not required. We actively welcome individuals who are new to board service. 

We support your learning by: 

• Covering the cost of virtual board training through a local non-profit organization, ArtsFund 

• Developing a Board Coach system (currently in process), where new members are paired with experienced board members 

• Creating learning spaces that are accessible, inclusive, and responsive to different communication styles and access needs 

We also recognize that traditional board training spaces are not always sign language-centered, and we are committed to building more equitable pathways for learning and leadership. 

Do I need to live in Washington State? 

No. We welcome board members from across the United States. Diverse geographic perspectives strengthen our work and help expand Deaf Spotlight’s reach, partnerships, and impact nationally. 

What if I’m hearing—can I still join the board? 

Yes! Hearing individuals are welcome to apply as long as we maintain compliance with our bylaws. We look for hearing board members who: 

• Demonstrate accountability to Deaf communities 

• Are willing to learn about power, privilege, and allyship 

• Are open to practicing accessibility and inclusion 

What skills or experiences are you looking for? 

We are seeking board members who bring a combination of: 

• Professional expertise (e.g., finance, fundraising, marketing, legal, governance) 

• Community relationships and networks 

• A demonstrated commitment to Deaf communities and DEIA principles 

We especially value individuals who are willing to listen, learn, and lead with cultural humility. 

What are my responsibilities as a board member? 

Board members serve as stewards, advocates, and connectors. Responsibilities include: 

• Providing strategic direction and organizational oversight 

• Upholding fiduciary and ethical responsibilities 

• Supporting fundraising and resource development 

• Serving as ambassadors within and beyond the Deaf community 

Equally important, board members: 

• Bring community voice and feedback into decision-making 

• Help ensure Deaf Spotlight remains aligned with its mission and DEIA commitments 

• Contribute to building an inclusive, accountable, and community-responsive organization 

How many committees do board members join? 

Each board member serves on at least two committees annually, creating opportunities for deeper engagement and leadership. 

What committees are available? 

We offer two types of committees: 

Board-Level Committees: Executive, Finance, Development, Board Recruitment, Artist-in-Residence, Personnel, Strategic Planning 

Programming Committees: Marketing, Seattle Deaf Film Festival, Deaf Lit Fest, Deaf Spotlight Presents (Theater), Youth, Art & Design, BIPOC Deaf Arts Grant 

Some committees are event-based (1–1.5 years), while others are ongoing. This allows flexibility based on your interests, skills, and availability. 

How often does the board meet? 

The board meets monthly for up to 1.5 hours: 

• 2nd Wednesday of each month 

• 5:30–7:00 PM (PST) / 8:30–10:00 PM (EST) 

We also alternate meeting focus: 

• One month: strategic planning 

• One month: general board business 

This rhythm helps us stay both visionary and grounded in operations. 

What is the expected time commitment? 

Time commitment varies depending on committee involvement and event cycles. 

• Average: a few hours per month outside of meetings 

• Event-heavy periods: 10–20 hours/month (especially for festivals and major programs) 

We encourage transparent communication about capacity and strive to create a sustainable and supportive environment for all board members. 

Where do meetings take place? 

Board meetings are held virtually via Zoom, with occasional in-person gatherings in Seattle when possible. 

What does a board meeting look like? 

Board meetings are collaborative and mission-driven. Led by the Board Chair, meetings typically include: 

• Organizational updates (programming, finance, development) 

• Committee reports 

• Strategic discussions and decision-making 

• Reflection on community impact and alignment with DEIA values 

Meetings alternate monthly between strategic planning and general board business to keep our work focused and forward-moving. 

We aim to create meetings that are accessible, engaging, and inclusive of multiple communication styles. 

What accommodations are provided? 

Deaf Spotlight is committed to meaningful accessibility. We provide: 

• ASL interpretation 

• CART captioning 

• Additional accommodations upon request 

We view access not as an add-on, but as a core value and shared responsibility. 

Am I required to attend events in person? 

No. While in-person attendance is not required, board members are encouraged to engage with events in ways that align with their capacity—whether in person or virtually. 

Supporting outreach, fundraising, and community engagement within your own networks is highly valued. 

Is there a financial contribution requirement? 

Board members are encouraged to make an annual contribution that is personally meaningful and feasible.    

We approach this with equity in mind, recognizing that everyone’s financial capacity is different. When the whole board participates, it demonstrates commitment to Deaf Spotlight while honoring individual circumstances. 

If you’re excited by the idea of contributing to a Deaf-led, equity-centered arts organization—and growing alongside a passionate, values-driven community—we encourage you to apply or reach out with questions at vicechair@deafspotlight.org.