Voluntary Association Boards: A Reflection of Member and Community Characteristics?

Abstract

This study examines U.S. affiliates of an international voluntary associa tion (Habitat for Humanity) and the relationship of local board composi tion, membership composition, and community characteristics. Using survey and census data, we were interested in whether characteristics of the local community are important predictors of the types of members recruited and the kinds of persons who emerge as voluntary organization leaders. We found that the characteristics of the local community influ ence composition and the size of membership and boards of directors. Additionally, we found that membership composition is also related to board composition.