Strong boards lead to "Mission Accomplished"

When considering an organization to support financially or perhaps upon which to serve as a board member, donors may wonder what criteria to utilize to assure the best use of their finances and time. A good place to start is by evaluating the strength of the board of directors for the organization. A nonprofit board of directors is literally the engine that keeps the organization running, and this means that the selection, development and ongoing care of a board are tantamount to the organization's success. Without these quality processes, the most well-meaning board and the best qualified staff cannot fully succeed.

The obligations of board service are considerable, and extend well beyond the basic expectations of attending meetings,

participating in fundraising initiatives, and making monetary contributions in order to accomplish the organization's mission. Consequently, a well-defined process for identifying potential board members, and a specifically designed selection process which clarifies expectations and responsibilities, benefit both the organization and the board member and assure a healthy relationship and a productive tenure. A board must have a well developed strategic plan for the organization's success and that plan begins with board member selection and orientation. Clear and concise board position descriptions and expectations, communicated to potential board members, ensure an unambiguous understanding of the commitment to serve. Orienting a new board member to these expectations as well as to the organization itself and its functions, more strongly guarantees a smooth transition and effective service.

Once a board is in place, it is essential that training continues for active members and that counseling inactive or unproductive board members becomes a regular part of the board leadership's responsibilities. If a board member desires to resign from the board, it is also essential that they be allowed to do so with dignity and respect and that the service given is acknowledged.

Because board members volunteer their time and have either jobs or other responsibilities outside their board service, it is key that their time be respected and used effectively. Meetings and commitments should be well organized and productive, and members should be encouraged to participate and interact freely.

Most importantly, it should be remembered that board members are people too! They appreciate being recognized and celebrated for their contributions just as we all do. Selflessly giving of time, talent and treasure to an organization that could not thrive without their help should always result in acknowledgement in some meaningful way.

Contacting other supporters of the organization, reviewing public financial records and/or speaking to current board members are all methods of determining the effectiveness of a board's leadership of the organization. The general public's perception of an organization is often a clear indicator of its successes. If a board of directors is effectively achieving the organization's mission, it is likely because of a clear understanding of that mission and because the criteria outlined here are being effectively met, and therefore, it may be an organization worthy of support.