A nonprofit board is the group which oversees your organization’s obligations and fiduciary duties, and guides it toward sustainable growth. They make sure that your nonprofit has the appropriate funds to fulfill its purpose and that it’s operated legally and ethically, through the policies of governance and financial management. They also evaluate the executive director’s performance along with compensation and other critical management issues.
Nonprofit boards are often composed of people who have connections with donors and other prominent members of the community as well as those who are passionate about your cause and its goals. You should also seek out people who are detail-oriented to be able to comprehend the big picture and how the pieces of the puzzle fit together, as well as what must be done in each department and how it affects the larger goal.
Board members must have a strong dedication to the nonprofit and its mission, and they must be able to dedicate substantial time and energy satisfying their obligations. In addition, they should be able to clearly communicate their value as trustees and the consequences of their decisions. They should not be at risk of gossip or rumor and they must not try to win favor among other trustees or employees by playing favoritism.
It is essential that your new board members fully understand their core responsibilities. many organizations use orientation sessions to teach new trustees about their legal and fiduciary duties along with other governance practices. They can be led either by your executive director or board members.
Bec Geyer