ORLANDO, Fla. – Dorian Williams is a new board member for the Youth Program Development Consulting, a nonprofit in its beginning stages that specializes in youth programs for children across Central Florida.
“I think the benefit of it is again the ability to have a seat at the table,” Williams said.
Williams said he was able to join the board with the help of the Black Boardroom Leadership Institute program through the Orlando Economic Partnership.
The six-month program is designed to help local Black leaders drive change on nonprofit boards in the Orlando region.
“I knew that had something to do with board service preparing individuals to sit on boards and that’s something I wanted to do at this point in my life and I want to give back something a little bit greater than just what I’m doing now,” Williams said.
Williams moved to Florida from Joliet, Illinois, and explained how he saw a lot of challenges growing up in that community and how that inspired him to reach better goals.
A recent survey through the Central Florida Foundation showed only 17% of nonprofit board members are represented by Black individuals in the Orlando area.
Williams said that is one of the reasons why he is pushing for more diverse representation and leadership for nonprofit boards.
“I think we can definitely do better, and I think this program existing,and hopefully existing for many years to come, will continue to have an impact, a 6% increase in two years I think is great, but we need so much more,” Williams explained.
Applications are set to open in May for the 2024 BBLI Leadership Track.
To learn more about the Black Boardroom Leadership Institute, click here.
To learn more about the Youth Program Development Consulting, click here.
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