Page 61 - C&A's Nonprofit Board Guide

WHAT THE NEW BOARD LOOKS LIKE:
BEYOND WEALTH, TOWARDS COMMUNITY UNDERSTANDING

THE LANDSCAPE OF NONPROFIT BOARDS IS EVOLVING. NO LONGER IS IT ENOUGH TO
FIND BOARD MEMBERS SOLELY BASED ON THEIR FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS. TODAY’S
IDEAL BOARD MEMBER EMBODIES A DEEP UNDERSTANDING OF THE COMMUNITY THEY
SERVE AND REFLECTS ITS DIVERSE MAKEUP. HERE ARE THE KEY CHARACTERISTICS
THAT DEFINE THE NEW STANDARD FOR BOARD MEMBERS:
THE IDEAL BOARD MEMBER: A UNIFIED LIST
6. STRONG DESIRE FOR STEWARDSHIP TO OTHERS
1. PRE-EXISTING PASSION FOR THE CAUSE
Stewardship involves nurturing relationships with donors, stakeholders, and the community,
A genuine passion for the organization’s mission is non-negotiable. This intrinsic ensuring their contributions are valued and impactful.
motivation fuels commitment and drives impactful work.
7. SUPPORTIVE, YET WILLING TO EXPRESS THEIR OWN OPINION
2. EAGERNESS TO PARTICIPATE AT EVERY MEETING
Constructive dissent is vital. Board members should support collective decisions but also
Regular attendance is crucial. Board members must be actively involved, bringing their feel empowered to voice their unique perspectives.
insights and energy to every meeting.
8. STRIVES TO LEARN AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE
3. WILLINGNESS TO PREPARE AHEAD FOR MEETINGS
Continuous learning about the organization, its challenges, and the broader sector ensures
Preparation is key. Board members should come to meetings well-informed, having board members are effective and informed.
reviewed all necessary materials in advance.
9. EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE
4. ANXIOUS TO SERVE ON COMMITTEES
Understanding and managing emotions enhances decision-making and interpersonal
Engagement extends beyond board meetings. Effective board members actively participate relationships within the board.
in committees, contributing their expertise and enthusiasm.
10. ABILITY TO COMMIT
5. ABILITY AND PROPENSITY TO GIVE ABOVE AVERAGE FINANCIALLY
Board roles are demanding. True commitment involves time, energy, and a willingness to
While financial contributions are important, the focus is on giving within their means and engage beyond regular meetings.
leveraging their networks for fundraising efforts.
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