Nonprofit Board of Directors
| October 25, 2023Nonprofits depend on a functional board of directors to accomplish their objectives. They are looking for individuals who are passionate about the mission, who have connections with the people they serve and who have experience managing business affairs at a certain level.
Professionals from all kinds of businesses and organizations serve on nonprofit boards. It’s an excellent opportunity to network, gain new skills and contribute positively to the community.
According to a Korngold survey, 78% of board members reported that their time on a nonprofit board helped them develop more respect for the viewpoints and opinions that were not their own. This is essential in a non-profit board environment where decisions have to be made with limited resources, and the board must make smart decisions regarding financial management.
Board members of nonprofits have many legal obligations and responsibilities, including the Duty to Care and the obligation of loyalty. Board members are required to avoid conflicts and avoid abusing their positions by utilizing funds from the nonprofit for personal gain. If you own the company that employs the executive director and the board is voting to increase the salary of him, you should not vote because you have a conflict.
Many nonprofits also have permanent (sometimes called “standing”) committees which deal with current issues or other special needs when they arise. These committees are run by board members who www.workboardroom.com/how-to-improve-board-governance/ must disclose any potential conflicts of interest to other board members.