Board Expansion — 2026

ECHO Systems is expanding its Board of Directors from 7 to 11 members in 2026. We are seeking four
new board members who will play a key role in scaling our impact and launching our first strategic plan
in 2027:

  • Two community leaders or representatives from neighborhoods where ECHO seeks to grow and
    deepen our work — including Kingsessing, Nicetown, Tioga, Kensington or Allegheny,
    Germantown, and the Southwest Philadelphia neighborhoods of Cobbs Creek and Overbrook.
  • Two development professionals with demonstrated experience securing substantial funding
    through grants, sponsorships, or philanthropy, and the connections and drive to help ECHO raise
    $10 million over the next five years.

Our Work

ECHO Systems is not just redefining how Philadelphia manages waste — we are driving systems change.
We bring everyone to the table — communities, businesses, agencies, and policymakers — to design a
new solid waste prevention framework that moves beyond the outdated, linear model of waste
management.

Our approach builds the social and policy infrastructure needed to transition toward circularity —
ensuring that the communities most impacted by pollution and underinvestment receive the support
and resources they need to participate fully in this just transition.

ECHO leverages its contributions to make that transition possible — providing technical assistance,
educational programming, and materials that empower local organizations, schools, and businesses to
join the shift toward solid waste prevention.

Role & Responsibilities

As a member of ECHO’s Board of Directors, you will play a critical role in guiding this transformative
work. You’ll help strengthen the organization’s foundation, ensure equity remains central, and accelerate
our growth toward citywide and regional impact.

Key Responsibilities

  • Strategic Leadership: Help steer the long-term direction, strategy, and systems-level impact of
    ECHO Systems.
  • Equitable Representation: Advocate with and for the communities most affected by waste and
    environmental injustice, ensuring their voices drive our mission.
  • Expertise & Innovation: Apply your experience in development, communications, organizational
    growth, or education to strengthen ECHO’s programs and reach.
  • Fundraising & Partnerships: Use your network and influence to attract funding, sponsorships,
    and collaborations that sustain and expand our impact.
  • Community Engagement: Represent ECHO at community events and partnerships, helping
    bridge residents, agencies, and businesses.
  • Advocacy: Support policies that promote circularity, reuse, and climate justice while holding
    institutions accountable to equitable implementation.

Ideal Qualifications

  • Experience in fundraising, development, communications, nonprofit management, business, or
    education (preferred but not required).
  • Proven ability to secure or influence significant funding (for development candidates).
  • Deep connection to Philadelphia’s neighborhoods — especially Kingsessing, Nicetown, Tioga,
    Kensington/Allegheny, Germantown, Cobbs Creek, or Overbrook.
  • Commitment to equity, diversity, and environmental justice.
  • Strong interpersonal and leadership skills, with a collaborative mindset.
  • Ability to commit to a three-year term, attend monthly meetings, and contribute 4–12 hours per
    month.
  • Willingness to make a meaningful annual contribution — financial, time-based, or a
    combination.
  • Openness to serving on at least one internal committee.

What You’ll Gain

A seat at the forefront of Philadelphia’s circular transition — helping to design a more just and
resilient waste prevention system.
● Opportunities to lead and collaborate with visionary changemakers, funders, and policymakers.
● Hands-on experience in nonprofit governance and systems design.
● The satisfaction of knowing your work directly advances a citywide movement for
environmental and social equity.

How to Apply

Send your resume and a brief 250-word statement sharing:

  • Why you want to join ECHO’s board,
  • How your experience and perspective align with our mission, and
  • What you hope to contribute.

Email: admin@echosystems.org

Subject line: Board Applicant

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until all positions are filled. Thank you for your interest in our
organization.

 

Learn More