It's the Board!

Board responsibility

It’s the board!

It’s all about the board.

Everything hinges on them.

– Al Mueller

Your board governs your organization.

It’s responsible for: setting policy, guiding strategy, and overseeing the CEO/Executive Director. Board members act as guardians of the organization.

I've served on various boards. Common challenges I’ve experienced include: members that were not engaged, members cared about the mission but were too busy in other areas of their life to contribute, and boards that struggled to fill empty board positions.

I’ve also dealt with boards while facilitating strategic plans. Board members of a Chinese Christian nonprofit struggled with generational and cultural differences. Older members that were born in China before moving to the U.S. offered a different perspectives from younger members born in the U.S. As a group, they gained alignment around a clear mission, vision and governance.

Your board is crucial for the success of growing your organization’s mission impact. 

Here are key elements that contribute to a strong and impactful board.

1. Clear Mission and Purpose – Board members should align and demonstrate their commitment with the mission and actively support its goals.

2. Strong Governance – A well-structured board ensures accountability, legal ethical decision-making and transparency.

3. Diverse and Skilled Membership – A mix of expertise, backgrounds, and perspectives strengthens the board’s ability to address challenges.

4. Active Engagement – Board members should be committed, attend meetings & events, and contribute meaningfully to discussions and initiatives.

5. Fundraising and Financial Oversight – Boards play a critical role in securing resources and ensuring financial sustainability.

6. Strategic Planning – Effective boards help shape the organization’s long-term vision, guide its growth, and review its plan.

7. Regular Evaluation and Improvement – Boards should assess their effectiveness and seek ways to improve governance and operations.

8. Hire and Evaluate the CEO/Executive Director—the board hires, supports, sets outcomes, evaluates and if necessary, releases the CEO/Executive Director.

   
   

Serving on a board is an important responsibility for each member. It ensures that the organization remains focused on its mission through effective governance.

To building an effective board,

Wes Legg

Coach & Guide

Contact me, to discuss building an effective board.