Join the Board of CultureWorks

CultureWorks is a member-driven organization.

That means our community does not simply occupy the space — it actively shapes it.

Our coworking members, fiscally sponsored projects, artists, organizers, and cultural workers inform the rhythm, priorities, and evolution of CultureWorks through their presence, feedback, programming ideas, collaborations, and day-to-day use of the space. The energy of the organization is not imposed from the top down; it emerges from the people who gather here to make, build, preserve, and share culture.

Because of this, CultureWorks operates less like a traditional coworking facility or service provider and more like a living ecosystem. Members propose events. Members lead workshops. Members collaborate across disciplines. Members identify gaps in resources and help us respond to them. Members introduce us to partners. Members help us understand what the cultural sector needs in real time.

This structure creates a dynamic where:

• Programming is informed by the interests and expertise of the community

• Partnerships grow organically through member relationships

• The space reflects the creative and professional needs of those who use it

• Knowledge is shared laterally, not just delivered institutionally

• Community stewardship is a shared responsibility, not a staff function alone

Being member-driven also means that CultureWorks listens carefully. We adapt policies, offerings, and priorities based on what our members are navigating in their work, in their organizations, and in the broader cultural landscape.

In practice, this looks like a coworking space that doubles as a resource hub, a fiscal sponsorship program shaped by the lived experience of project leaders, and a calendar filled with events that originate from within the community itself.

CultureWorks is powered by the people inside it.
Their work, their questions, their creativity, and their initiative guide what this organization becomes next.

About the Board

The Board of Directors of CultureWorks / CultureTrust Greater Philadelphia is legally and ethically responsible for the stewardship of both the Trust and its administrator, consistent with our bylaws and fiduciary obligations.

The board is currently composed of volunteer directors drawn from both CultureWorks member projects and the broader social impact ecosystem. Our Co-Executive Directors serve as ex-officio, non-voting members of the board.

Directors may serve up to two three-year terms.

This is a working, engaged board—strategic in orientation, supportive of staff leadership, and actively involved in helping the organization navigate growth, sustainability, and complexity as they support a vast community of cultural entrepreneurs.

Learn more about our board here.

Why Serve on the CultureWorks Board?

Board service at CultureWorks offers:

• A chance to steward a high-impact, sector-shaping organization at a pivotal moment

• Deep exposure to fiscal sponsorship, a powerful and still underutilized nonprofit model.

  • The list of organizations we partner with can be seen here.

• Opportunities to contribute your expertise while learning alongside peers from across the cultural and social impact landscape

• Access to our 5,000 sq ft coworking space in Center City

• Connection to a network of 220+ cultural leaders and organizations

• Meaningful engagement with work that is actively shaping Philadelphia’s cultural future

The Moment We’re In

Like many organizations in the cultural and nonprofit sectors, CultureWorks is navigating a period of growth, increased demand, and organizational complexity. Our current priorities include:

• Strengthening financial sustainability and cash flow

• Deepening strategic funder and partner relationships

• Continuing to strengthen what works while right-sizing systems, structure, and capacity

We are seeking board members who are excited to help think, build, and steward through this chapter.

What Board Members Do

The board’s core responsibilities include:

• Financial Oversight: Approving budgets, ensuring fiscal integrity, and safeguarding charitable assets

• Executive Leadership: Hiring, supporting, and evaluating the Co-Executive Directors

• Board Development: Recruiting, orienting, and strengthening the board itself

• Organizational Health: Assessing performance, culture, and impact

• Ambassadorship: Advocating for CultureWorks and helping grow its visibility and relationships

• Fundraising Support: Opening doors, building relationships, and supporting development efforts

Board members also serve as thoughtful partners to staff—acting as strategic sounding boards, amplifying staff work, and offering constructive, honest feedback.

Expectations of Individual Directors

Board members are expected to:

• Attend and actively participate in quarterly board meetings (2–3 hours each)

• Serve on at least one committee (meetings average 1–2 hours per month)

• Participate in an annual planning retreat (1 day per year)

• Attend at least two CultureWorks or member events per year

• Review board materials, financial statements, the annual audit, and Form 990

• Make a personally meaningful annual financial contribution, supporting 100% board giving

• Actively help identify opportunities, relationships, and resources that support the mission

• Uphold strong governance, including conflict-of-interest and fiduciary standards

Fiduciary Responsibility

Board members hold fiduciary responsibility to the organization and its community, including:

• Duty of Care: Acting with appropriate diligence, preparation, and good judgment

• Duty of Loyalty: Acting in the best interests of the organization and avoiding conflicts of interest

• Duty of Impartiality: Treating all beneficiaries fairly within our fiscal sponsorship ecosystem

Who We’re Looking For

We seek board members who bring strategic perspective, sound judgment, and genuine commitment to CultureWorks’ mission. Prior board experience is helpful but not required.

We are especially interested in individuals with experience in areas such as:

• Finance, accounting, or audit

• Fundraising, philanthropy, or business development

• Legal, governance, or risk management

We strongly encourage candidates who reflect the diversity of the communities we serve, alongside those who have had direct past experience working within our fiscal sponsorship and/or coworking programs