Page 4 - NFP Advisor Vol. 32
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BOARD MEMBER MENUS:
A Simple Strategy to Boost
Engagement and Accountability SAMPLE MENU ITEMS HOW TO DO CHECK-INS
MAKING IT STICK:
To ensure the menu isn’t just a one-time exercise,
regular check-ins are key. Here are a few ways to make
FUNDRAISING & DEVELOPMENT them effective and board-friendly:
PEER-LED ACCOUNTABILITY
► Make a personal donation Instead of relying solely on the Executive Director,
K eeping board members actively engaged ► Call and thank 3 donors consider assigning a board member to lead check-ins.
between meetings is a common challenge
This peer-to-peer approach fosters camaraderie and
►
for nonprofits. While passion for the mission Introduce a potential donor or sponsor shared responsibility, making the process feel less like
may be strong, competing priorities and unclear ► Host a small gathering or fundraiser oversight and more like collaboration.
expectations can lead to disengagement. One creative
solution? Board Member Menus—a customizable CELEBRATE WINS AT MEETINGS
tool that invites board members to choose how they’ll ADVOCACY & OUTREACH
contribute, while reinforcing their commitment to the Dedicate time at each board meeting for members to
organization. share their “menu wins.” Whether it’s a successful
► Share a social media post donor call or a new community connection, these
WHAT IS A BOARD MEMBER MENU? ► Attend a community event on behalf of the stories inspire others and reinforce the value of board
organization engagement.
A Board Member Menu is a simple, structured list of
engagement opportunities. Members select a few items ► Write a testimonial or blog post QUARTERLY MENU REVIEWS
they’re willing to commit to each quarter or year—
tailored to their strengths, interests, and availability. At the start of each quarter, invite members to revisit
It’s a flexible way to encourage participation without GOVERNANCE & STRATEGY their selections. Are they still relevant? Do they want
overwhelming anyone. to try something new? This keeps the menu fresh and
aligned with evolving interests and availability.
WHY IT WORKS ► Review and provide feedback on strategic
documents TRACK PROGRESS LIGHTLY
► Empowers Choice: Members choose how they ► Participate in a committee Use a simple spreadsheet or dashboard to track who’s
contribute, increasing ownership.
► Help recruit new board members completed what. This isn’t about pressure—it’s about
► Encourages Accountability: Selections are visibility and encouragement.
revisited at meetings, creating natural check-in
points. MISSION SUPPORT FINAL THOUGHTS
► Builds Engagement: Members stay connected to Board Member Menus are more than a checklist—
the mission through meaningful actions. ► Volunteer at a program or event they’re a culture-building tool. By giving board members
► Supports Diverse Contributions: Not everyone ► Visit a program site and share observations clear, actionable ways to participate and creating space
can give financially, but everyone can give in some for peer-led accountability, you foster a board that’s
way. ► Provide professional expertise (e.g., legal, not only engaged but empowered. And when board
financial, marketing) members are truly invested, your organization is better
positioned to thrive.
JACLYN CURTI, CPA, MBA
SUPERVISOR
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