It's that time of year again -- chapter elections!
Every November, our chapter hosts elections for our volunteer Executive Committee. This committee is made up of five core positions (Chair, Vice Chair, Volunteer Coordinator, Treasurer, and Secretary). An additional 2-4 roles can be created to support the needs of the chapter (for example: Fundraising Coordinator, Communications Coordinator, Campaign Coordinator, etc.)
What is an Executive Committee?
The Executive Committee (EC) is a group of volunteers responsible for running a Surfrider Foundation chapter. They are the most involved members of the chapter who step up to serve in fun and rewarding leadership positions that require consistent efforts through a two-year term. As volunteers, perfection is not expected, but dedication and communication is important. EC members meet regularly to lead and guide decisions for the chapter, discuss and manage chapter business and finances, support events and fundraising efforts, and to build a thriving chapter community of environmental leaders to protect and enjoy our ocean, waves, and beaches!
Election
Executive Committee members are elected for a two-year term by a vote of active members in November. The candidates with the most votes will become part of the EC for 2026-2027 term starting in the new year. Each year there are typically 3-5 open positions that join existing EC members to help ensure some consistency and institutional knowledge on the EC.
Open Positions for 2026-2027
We’re actively recruiting for the Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, Volunteer Coordinator, Social Media Lead, and Member at Large positions.
The chapter general body elects EC members; it does not elect specific positions. After the election, the new EC members will meet with the current and outgoing EC members to discuss the duties of the various positions to determine, based on interest and time commitment, who will perform those duties in the coming year.
Excited to Join the Executive Committee?
Please visit the Executive Committee Election page for more details and to apply!
Timeline:
- Applications open through 10/15/2025
- Surfrider Foundation San Francisco Members vote for top 3 choices 10/17/2025 - 10/30/2025
- New candidates announced first week of November
Additional Information
Surfrider Foundation chapters are led and run by a small group of incredibly dedicated volunteers. Running a chapter should be fun, but it’s important to remember that every chapter is a direct extension of the nationwide network of Surfrider chapters and thus should seek in every way possible to conduct business in a professional manner. How the chapter conducts itself will determine how we are perceived in your community.
As an Executive Committee member you can expect to spend somewhere from 2 to 5 hours a week on Surfrider communications and tasks, depending on your specific role, the time of year and how active the chapter is. Our current and past EC members come from a variety of professional backgrounds and have a number of skill sets. Most importantly, we seek self-directed and self-motivated people who care deeply about the protection and enjoyment of our coasts, recognize the power of grassroots action to effect change, and enjoy learning as they go.
Volunteering as an Executive Committee Member in a Surfrider Foundation Chapter offers numerous benefits and skill-building opportunities for individuals. One key benefit is personal growth, as volunteering fosters a sense of fulfillment and purpose by contributing to our mission for clean water and healthy beaches for all people. You also get invitations to special events and learning opportunities, such as the annual California Chapters & Student Club Conference, which will be held in Ventura in 2026.
General Functions of a Surfrider Foundation Chapter:
- Identify and work on mission-related issues in the chapter’s geographic area. This means running campaigns to win a decision in favor of the environment and programs that are ongoing.
- Engage chapter members through regular communications, meetings, and by giving them mission-related ways to volunteer.
- Grow chapter membership, including retaining current members.
- Cultivate, train, and mentor volunteers.
- Identify new leaders and prepare them for leadership positions.
Executive Committee Essential Functions:
- Prioritize and support chapter campaigns and programs.
- Attend monthly Executive Committee meetings in person and/or Zoom.
- Organize and staff community outreach events.
- Organize and plan fundraising and awareness events.
- Coordinate and support volunteers. Mentor volunteers and recruit future Executive Committee members.
- Participate in and co-lead subcommittees, i.e. campaign, program or event committees.
- Communicate regularly with and be responsive to Regional and National Staff.
- Communicate regularly with, and be responsive to, chapter membership.
- Conduct annual chapter planning early each year, including rough sketches of campaigns and budgets. Implement the annual plan during the year.
- Ensure that chapter funds are raised, spent, and accounted for properly.
- Meet minimum requirements for chapter operation and comply with Surfrider Chapter Bylaws.
Questions? Email natkind@sf.surfrider.org