Rockwall Boys & Girls Club board chair earns national recognition

By BoardSource:

Stephen serves as the board chair of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Rockwall County. Professionally, he is the owner of Straughan Properties, LLC.

In nominating Stephen for the Board Member of the Month Award, Misti Carder-Potter, president & CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Rockwall County, noted the following:

“When Stephen took over the Boys & Girls Clubs of Rockwall County in 2010, the hand he was dealt came with enormous hurdles and obstacles, ranging from poor public perception, dismal programming, a dilapidated facility, and a history of staff and board challenges to battling a financially insolvent condition that lacked a plan or strategy to resolve itself…

As the leader of the board, he stepped up and dedicated countless hours to rectifying the challenges and problems the organization faced…[and] the organization, in less than 15 months, went from an insolvent, failing, destined to implode non-profit to one with a stable, consistent, positive bank balance, a board filled with influential doers, a Club busting at the seams with kids, and headed by a leader who has a passion for kids, a love for our community, and a business mindset that has launched the Boys & Girls Club of Rockwall County to the forefront of youth development throughout our community. The right person came along at absolutely the right time and his name is Stephen Straughan.”

Recently, BoardSource asked Stephen a few questions about his board service:

What inspires you to serve on this board?

It has to do with my childhood! I am dyslexic and, as a result, had major learning difficulties. This was back in the ‘60s, before dyslexia was addressed in schools as it is now. My mother worked with me and helped me with my homework, and it was through her work and her care that I was able to move on and go to college. Otherwise, I would have just fallen through the cracks and would not be where I am today. Knowing how important it is to have a mentor who really cares about you inspired me to step up and make a difference in another kid’s life.

What does leadership mean to you?

To me, leadership is helping others reach their goals.

What do you consider the most important quality in a nonprofit board to attract good board members?

Boards must have clear and defined goals and a purpose that inspire others to be a part of the solution. I rebuilt the board when I became the chair. In doing so, I was able to define a purpose, so that those who have joined us have a common goal, which is to turn this Boys & Girls Club around and make it the best we possibly can for the kids.

What do you consider the most important quality in a nonprofit board member?

A desire and a drive to make a difference in his or her community. You can learn how to make a difference once you are on the board, but you have to have the desire to do the work.

What would you say is the most important thing you have contributed to your board?

Leaving the Boys & Girls Club better than when I found it. When I became board chair, it was in danger of closing its doors. Today, we are looking at building a campus. I just want to make sure it is better off because I was here.

What is your advice to other aspiring board members on how to make a difference?

 Get involved in the community. Learn what the needs are. You can’t make a difference if you don’t know what making a difference is all about. Know your community, and know your talents, and learn where you can step in and make a difference.

What does this award mean to you?

It completely shocked me. It is a compliment to know that what I do does count. I am honored to be recognized for my endeavors in serving others because that is what I think life is all about.

Source: BoardSource & Boys & Girls Club of Rockwall County

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