About Our Organization

The Northwest Perennial Alliance is a not-for-profit corporation, dedicated to the education of gardeners, both experienced and beginners. The NPA is governed by an elected Board of Directors (all volunteers), who sets policy and directs the overall running of the organization.

A part time paid Office Administrator handles membership duties, maintains the membership data base, prepares and sends emails and other mailings to the members under the direction of the two co-chairs.  The OA also acts as bookkeeper.

Board of Directors

The affairs of the Northwest Perennial Alliance are managed by the Officers and Board of Directors who are elected by the members of the organization at the September Annual Membership meeting. The board positions include two Co-Chairs (staggered terms), the Past Chair, Recording Secretary and Treasurer.

Directors include Board Development Chair, Communications Chair, Education Chair, Finance Chair, Membership Chair and Volunteer Chair. Each of these committee chairs may choose to have a co-chair. In addition there are eight or more Directors at Large. The Directors at Large are asked to serve on at least one committee. For a list of the current members of the NPA Board, click here.

How does one become an officer or director of the Board?

Anyone who is a member of the NPA is eligible to become a candidate for election by the membership. You may request an informational form to complete and return to the Board Development Committee indicating your desire to become a Board member. The Board Development (Nominating) Committee, looks for people who have an interest in helping run the business of the organization, are willing to devote the time required to attend monthly board meetings, some committee meetings and the annual planning meeting (Retreat) held in October of each year. Specialized skills or experience in planning, organizing and communication as well as an enjoyment of effectively working with others are all important assets. We look for active people who share our common goal of education.

What are the duties of a board member?

Duties vary depending on the specific job description but generally board members either chair a committee and/or are a member of one or more board committees. Conducting the business of the organization, setting policy and participating in long range strategic planning are part of the duties all board members share.

Project Chairs

The Project Chairs are appointed by the Board Development Committee and the Co-Chairs to conduct specific business for the NPA.  They are not required to attend Board meetings unless they have a specific report to give but are always welcome.  Project Chairs handle the following functions: Book Sales, Border Committee, Classes & Workshops, Flower & Garden Show, Hellebore Open House, Open Gardens Directory, Perennial Post newsletter, Plant Labels, Plant Sale, Scholarships, Seed Exchange and Study Weekend (every 4th year).

Are you interested?

If you have the time and desire to help run the NPA we would like to talk to you.  Serving on the Board offers the opportunity to get involved and give back, to mentor and have fun and form new friendships. Making new friends with common interests adds to the satisfaction that you are making a worthwhile contribution. The Board is not an exclusive group. We need new people every year as terms expire and new opportunities occur. If you would like to get involved, contact our Board Development Committee or call our office at 425-647-6004. We look forward to hearing from you.