A nonprofit board supervises the organization’s fiduciary obligations and ensures its long-term sustainability. Through governance and financial management policy they ensure that your nonprofit is managed ethically and legally and has the funds it needs to fulfill its mission. They also examine the executive director’s performance along with compensation and other critical management issues.
Nonprofit boards often include people who have connections to donors and other influential community members and who are committed to your cause and its goals. You should also look for those who are meticulous, so that they can understand the big picture and how the pieces work together and what is required in each department and how it affects the larger goals.
Board members should show a strong commitment towards the nonprofit and its missions and be prepared to devote significant time and effort to meeting obligations. In addition, they must be able to clearly articulate the value they add as a trustee and the consequences of their decisions. They should not be at risk of gossip or rumor. They shouldn’t try to gain favor with other trustees or employees by playing with their own personal preferences.
It is essential that new board members are aware of their primary obligations. Many organizations use orientation sessions to educate their new trustees about their legal and fiduciary responsibilities, as well other governance practices. They could be guided by other board members, or your executive director.
