Reflections on Board Service: A Conversation with Sara A. Crawford
Serving on a nonprofit board is a rewarding experience that can shape both the nonprofit and the individuals who lead it. We sat down with Sara A. Crawford, a dedicated member of Spur Impact’s Board of Directors, to hear about her journey, lessons learned and hopes for the future.
What initially inspired you to join Spur Impact’s board, and what kept you engaged throughout your service?
“I loved Spur Impact’s mission and saw it as an opportunity to get involved in meaningful work that creates more opportunities for the community. What kept me engaged was the genuine impact I witnessed — not only in the programs themselves, but also in the people whose lives were touched by them. The energy and passion within the organization made me feel like my contributions truly mattered.”
Looking back, what accomplishment or moment are you most proud of during your time on the board?
“I’m most proud of the opportunities that were created as a result of our work, and the perspective I was able to bring to the table. Contributing to conversations that helped shape strategy and broaden how the board thought about community engagement was meaningful. It wasn’t just about making decisions — it was about opening doors for others and seeing ideas translate into real impact.”
How has serving on Spur Impact’s board impacted you personally or professionally?
“Serving on this board has expanded my network in powerful ways, connecting me with leaders and changemakers I may not have met otherwise. It has also sharpened my business knowledge, giving me a deeper understanding of governance, strategy, and collaboration in a nonprofit context. On a personal level, it has opened doors and given me the confidence to step into bigger opportunities, both in service and in leadership.”
What did you learn about the nonprofit sector or community needs through this experience?
“I learned how dynamic and layered the nonprofit sector truly is. There’s a constant balance between vision and resources, and it requires creativity, persistence, and collaboration to meet community needs effectively. I also saw firsthand how critical it is to listen — to really understand what the community is asking for, not just what we assume they need. That perspective changed how I approach both service and business.”
What advice would you give to someone considering board service for the first time?
“Go into it with an open mind and a willingness to both give and learn. Be clear on the mission of the organization and make sure it aligns with your values, because that’s what will sustain your commitment when the work gets challenging. Also, know that your perspective is valuable — even if you’re new, you bring something important to the table.”
In your opinion, what makes a strong and effective board member?
“A strong board member is engaged, curious, and willing to both listen and contribute. They show up prepared, not just for meetings but for the mission, and they’re proactive in finding ways to support the organization beyond the boardroom. They also understand that effectiveness comes from collaboration — it’s about collective strength, not individual agendas.”
How do you hope Spur Impact will continue to grow and evolve in the coming years?
“I hope Spur Impact continues to expand its reach by building even more bridges between young professionals, community leaders, and organizations that need their energy. I’d love to see the organization grow in its ability to cultivate future leaders and amplify diverse voices, ensuring that the next generation of changemakers feels empowered, supported, and seen.”
