If you are asked to serve on a not-for-profit board, you do not get compensated. (As with all things, there are exceptions such as some foundation board members may be lightly compensated.) But, it’s a bit more complicated than that as you are actually asked to “contribute” in many ways.
As a board member, you carry fiduciary oversight for the organization (meaning the buck stops with you) which is not something to take lightly. You are most likely expected to give of your “time, talent, and treasure” meaning you’ll be attending meetings and volunteering, getting your social circle involved, and writing a check. The level of expectations around this time, talent and treasure commitment vary, so make sure to have an open and honest discussion with the board chair before you sign on. While that seems like a lopsided bargain, anyone who has served on a board of a well run organization will tell you it is a pleasure and a privilege to be able to make a difference for an organization and to see “under the hood” on how it operates. Most importantly, you’ll know that the organization served its mission better because of your contribution. Winning….