Boardroom Bound: A Homeschooling Mom's Leap of Faith

My testament to the transformative journey of volunteering for a non-profit Board of Directors

Amid personal upheavals and the global chaos post-2020, I found purpose on the board of directors for the Texans Homeschool Athletic Foundation. My journey on the board was not merely about giving back, but also about rediscovering my professional self and encouraging other women, especially those in the homeschooling community, to step up and join the board of directors.

Why I Joined the Texans Board

Inspired by the transformative stories of volunteering, I took a leap of faith, seeing an opportunity to channel my knowledge and passion into something greater. I've always been passionate about the ethos of a sports team. As a parent, I was privileged to have glimpsed a world beyond the typical "daddy-ball" experience. With the right foundations in place and the dedication of like-minded individuals, we could cultivate a top-tier program. Ultimately, my journey reaffirmed what I had always believed: At the core of my decision to join the board was an unwavering faith in the transformative power of volunteering.

Women on the Board

Let's address a common misconception head-on: I am a woman, and more specifically at the time, a stay-at-home mom. Some might ponder, "Does she truly belong on a board of directors?" Drawing inspiration from turnaround CEO Beth Krasna's insights [check out the LinkedIn interview here], I firmly believe that women not only belong but are essential to boards of directors. Our unique perspectives, experiences, and the courage to challenge dominant figures introduce a dynamic shift, enriching the discussions and decisions in what are often male-dominated settings. Krasna's experiences underscore the transformative impact women can have, emphasizing that we don't merely add to the conversation; we redefine it.

Rediscovering the Professional World

Joining the board was a soft re-entry, reigniting my professional spark after years as a stay-at-home mom. I was reintroduced to essential communicational tools for leadership. Platforms like Slack, Zoom, and various other productivity management software, like Asana, were no longer foreign concepts. These tools, which I accessed at a much gentler pace than in a high-pressure corporate job, reignited my professional spark. Moreover, I soon discovered the advantage of accessing tools and resources at discounted rates, a privilege extended to non-profits.

My experience on the board forced me to figure out many new digital productivity tools, including Zoom, which I now use confidently for business meetings with people across the country.

Networking and Growth

The board of directors was more than just a group of individuals; it was a vibrant networking hub. Each member brought their unique skills and experiences to the table. This diversity allowed me to gain a firsthand appreciation for various fields, work settings, and even the distinct communication styles of my fellow board members. With ample opportunity to apply all those personality-type quizzes that we frequent as women in our private circles, I learned to appreciate each other's differences and struggles when solving tough problems at a table full of experience.

Capital One Cafe has meeting rooms available for non-profit use via Liquid Space. We occasionally use this one, in Austin, for our Media Team meetings. Thanks, Capital One!

Reflecting on My Boardroom Journey

Serving on the board was a transformative journey, bridging my identity as a stay-at-home mom with the corporate world. My time on the board transitioned me back into a collective problem-solving mindset, offering invaluable networking and learning opportunities. Beyond the business acumen I rehearsed, I deeply appreciated the incredible leaders, volunteers, diverse talents, and perspectives within the homeschooling community. It's not just about what you can give; it's a chance to evolve, to connect, and to rediscover facets of yourself.

To all dedicated stay-at-home and homeschooling women: consider joining a non-profit board. It's a journey of personal growth, contribution, and discovery. I'm profoundly grateful for this chapter in my life, and I believe you'll cherish such an experience too.

Kimberly Wills Media and Communications 2021 - 2023

Founding Member, Board of Directors THAF

You can follow me more of my journey back to the business world on my blog!

And my star athlete, Sebastian, at Senior Night 2023 for the Texans Homeschool Baseball team in Georgetown, TX.