Читать книгу Nonprofit Kit For Dummies - Stan Hutton, Beverly A. Browning - Страница 73

Boards of directors exhibit all the characteristics of small groups, and maybe even families: Friendships develop, alliances form, and disagreements occur. Over time, the group develops routines and habits that help make members feel comfortable with one another and help guide the board’s work. When a new member joins the group or when a prospective new member visits, the existing members need to make that person feel comfortable and share with them the collective wisdom they have accumulated.

Invite a prospective board member to observe at least one board meeting before electing them to membership. That way, the new member gets a chance to see how the board operates, and the current members have an opportunity to size up the new person. Encourage the prospective member to ask questions. Also, if your nonprofit provides programs — such as childcare, a health clinic, or a music school — be sure to give your prospective board members a tour of the facilities before they join.

When asking someone to serve on your board, don’t shy away from sharing a clear picture of the work to be done. You may be afraid that your prospect will say no if it seems like too much work. However, keep in mind that being asked is an honor, and contributing good work to a good cause is satisfying. Besides, if the person does decide that you’re asking too much, isn’t it better to know now rather than later?

A packet of background materials about the organization and board procedures can help new members get up to speed quickly. The following information is useful for orienting new members:

 Board job descriptions outlining responsibilities and expectations

 Board minutes for the past two or three meetings

 Articles and bylaws

 Conflict-of-interest policy (if you have one)

 Calendar of the organization’s events and scheduled board meetings

 Description of programs

 Financial audit or financial statement

 Form 990 for the past three years

 Mission statement

 Names, addresses, and phone numbers of other board members

 News clippings about the organization

 Organizational plan (if one is available)

This information may seem like a lot of reading — and it is. But even if a new board member doesn’t read everything from cover to cover, they at least have the reference material when they need it.

We also suggest that the board president or the executive director meet with a new board member soon after the person begins serving on the board, both to welcome them and to answer any questions.