Strong Boards Make Strong Nonprofits
By Ben Delaney
© 2023 ImmersivEdge Advisors. All rights reserved.
Nonprofit organizations serve a critical role in society by addressing various societal issues and filling gaps where government and private organizations may not be able to act. The success of these organizations is heavily reliant on the strength of their leadership, which includes their Board of Directors.
A strong Board of Directors is critical for nonprofit organizations as it can bring a wide range of expertise and experience that can help the organization to navigate various challenges and opportunities.
One of the primary responsibilities of a nonprofit Board of Directors is to provide guidance and oversight to the organization. This can include developing and approving strategic plans, overseeing financial management, and ensuring that the organization is adhering to its mission and values. The Board is also the Executive Director’s boss, and oversees the top executive’s plans, activities, and style of work. A strong Board of Directors can also provide access to networks and resources that can help the organization to grow and achieve its goals. Boards often decide the compensation structure of the CBO’s leadership team. Additionally, the Board of Directors can serve as ambassadors for the organization, helping to raise awareness and build support among stakeholders.
One often overlooked, but very important role for the board is to act as thought partners to the chief executive. That old saying that it’s lonely at the top is true. Every nonprofit Executive Director (ED) needs people to talk to when difficult decision need to be made, such as dealing with sensitive HR issues, new program planning, major grant proposals, and dealing with important donors. The ED will appreciate being able to go to lunch with one or more members of the Board to talk about these types of issues and think through the various options and potential consequences.
Recruiting strong Board members is crucial for the success of your nonprofit organization. One effective strategy is to identify individuals who have a passion for your organization's mission and values. The Board should also seek individuals with diverse skills and backgrounds, including those with experience in fundraising, finance, legal, and marketing. Recruiting individuals with strong connections to the community can also be beneficial for the organization, as it can help to build support and increase the organization's visibility.
Board members should be rewarded for their service and dedication to the organization. This can include providing opportunities for professional development, recognition for their contributions, and compensation for expenses related to Board activities. However, it is essential to ensure that compensation is not the primary motivation for Board members to serve on the Board, as this can lead to conflicts of interest and undermine the organization's mission.
In terms of expectations, Board members should be expected to participate in regular Board meetings and committees, as well as to attend events and support fundraising efforts. They should also be expected to act in the best interest of the organization and avoid conflicts of interest. Board members should be proactive in identifying potential issues and opportunities for the organization and provide guidance and oversight as needed.
In conclusion, a strong Board of Directors is critical for the success of nonprofit organizations. Board members should be recruited based on their passion for the organization's mission and values, have diverse skills and backgrounds, and strong connections to the community. They should be rewarded for their service, but compensation should not be the primary motivation for serving on the Board. Board members should be expected to participate actively, provide guidance and oversight, and act in the best interest of the organization. By prioritizing a strong Board of Directors, nonprofit organizations can increase their capacity to address societal issues and achieve their mission.
More info:
BoardSource. (2017). Leading with Intent: 2017 National Index of Nonprofit Board Practices. Retrieved from https://leadingwithintent.org/