A well-run board is a great asset, but a dysfunctional one can hold a nonprofit back. Experts agree that it’s important for charity boards to be diverse, committed to the mission, and willing to contribute by raising money and participating fully in the decision-making process.
Below are links to articles from the Chronicle that will help nonprofits build better boards — and help board members govern nonprofits more effectively.
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Advice
Why Money Shouldn’t Trump Mission When Choosing Board Members
When nonprofits fill their boards with megawealthy people, mission suffers and differing viewpoints are lacking. Here’s why economic diversity among trustees is good for nonprofits and how to make it happen. -
Advice
How to Identify First-Rate Board Members
A guide to choosing trustees outlines the characteristics that make the best candidates and offers tips for judging important intangible qualities. -
Advice12 Ways to Be Sure Your Board Is Active and Committed to Your Cause
Steps any nonprofit can take to involve its trustees more fully in fundraising and governance. -
Advice
A Sample Form for Outlining a Board Member’s Responsibilities
Use this sample to craft an agreement with your trustees that outlines a board member’s responsibilities to your organization. -
Advice
5 Ways Board Members Can Practice Good Governance
Board members should consider themselves stewards of a nonprofit’s assets, first and foremost. -
Advice
How to Fix 5 Common Board-Meeting Problems
By making the most of members’ time and energy during meetings, you can help trustees better serve your nonprofit. -
Advice
Top 10 Things to Consider Before Joining a Board
A foundation executive director and board chair share key questions to answer before a prospective member commits to serving on a board. -
Advice
What to Do When Board Members Won’t Raise Money
Now more than ever, charities rely on trustees to help bring in much-needed funds, but many of them are uninterested or intimidated by the process. -
Advice
Quiz: Is Your Board Suffering From Burnout
If you’re a trustee or chief executive, take this simple quiz created by BoardSource to find out whether your nonprofit board needrejuvenation. -
Fundraising
How Nonprofits Persuade Their Boards to Spend More on Fundraising
Showing the potential for strong returns and establishing close ties with the CFO are among the ways top fundraisers get bosses and boards to spend more. -
Managing Guide
How Boards Can Support New Charity Leaders
Boards should clarify roles and ask new chief executives what they need. -
Advice
The World’s Best Board Member
He shares his enthusiasm for the charity with his friends, listens to and supports the CEO, knows when to speak up and when to zip it—and throws great parties. -
Advice
Want to Avoid a Bad Board Experience? Consider Saying No
Too often boards take a haphazard approach to recruiting new members, and too often the recruits accept despite serious misgivings. -
Managing
Inviting the Public to Board Meetings Can Be Risky or Rewarding
Going beyond the faces in the boardroom can be productive in bringing a greater diversity of thinking. -
Opinion
How Board Members Can Handle Growing Pressures in 2014
Donor concerns, tighter regulations, and increased public scrutiny demand greater vigilance in oversight. -
Advice
A Board’s Travels Inspire Bonding, Fresh Ideas, and Bigger Gifts
Whether you go across town or around the world, a mission trip brings trustees together in a unique and wonderful way that pays dividends for years to come. -
Opinion
Opinion: Make Advocacy a Part of Every Board Member’s Duty
Grant makers can play a key role in helping nonprofits show trustees the best ways to wield their influence.
