What to Consider Before Joining a Nonprofit Board
Introduction
Serving on a nonprofit board is a meaningful way to give back to your community, support a cause you care about, and help steer an organization toward its mission. It also entails significant responsibilities and commitments.
Below are 11 key aspects to consider before joining a nonprofit board:
1. Legal and Fiduciary Responsibilities
Duty of Care
Board members must exercise reasonable care when making decisions on behalf of the organization, acting as a prudent person would in similar circumstances. This includes reviewing agendas and reports, preparing for meetings, and asking questions if something is unclear.
Duty of Loyalty
You must place the interests of the nonprofit above personal or professional interests. This includes avoiding conflicts of interest (or properly disclosing them) and not using board service for private gain.
Duty of Obedience
You are responsible for ensuring the nonprofit adheres to its mission and abides by the laws and regulations that govern it. This includes making sure the organization is operating ethically and legally.
2. Understanding the Organization’s Mission and Strategy
Before joining, it’s critical to understand:
The nonprofit’s mission and values – do they resonate with you?
The organization’s strategic goals and long-term vision.
How the organization’s programs and initiatives advance its mission and serve stakeholders.
By knowing the organizational mission and strategy, you can contribute effectively to planning, goal-setting, and monitoring progress.
3. Financial Oversight
A nonprofit board oversees budgeting, fundraising, expenditures, and overall financial health. You don’t have to be an accountant, but you should:
Become familiar with financial statements (balance sheet, income statement, cash flow).
Understand the nonprofit’s fundraising model (grants, donations, membership dues, etc.).
Ensure that internal controls and compliance measures are in place to protect the organization’s financial integrity.
4. Fundraising Expectations
Many nonprofits rely heavily on board members for fundraising and resource development. Each organization is different, but you may be asked to:
Contribute financially yourself, often called “give or get.”
Use your networks to identify and solicit donors.
Advocate for the nonprofit’s mission to potential supporters.
Before joining, clarify the board’s expectations around fundraising – whether you’re expected to donate a certain amount, identify new sponsors, or participate in events.
5. Time Commitment and Meeting Attendance
Nonprofit board service is a serious commitment that goes beyond attending a quarterly or monthly meeting. Expect to:
Prepare for each meeting by reviewing reports and agendas.
Participate in committee work (e.g., finance committee, governance committee).
Attend occasional retreats, fundraising events, or community engagements.
Ask about the typical annual schedule and how often you’ll be expected to attend events, both in-person and remotely.
6. Board Culture and Composition
A nonprofit board often functions best when it is diverse and collaborative. Before joining, assess:
Board culture: Is it formal or more casual? Collegial or driven by strict procedure?
Board composition: What expertise do current members bring (e.g., legal, finance, marketing)? Does the board value different perspectives and experiences?
A supportive, open, and respectful environment is key to productive board service.
7. Conflict of Interest Policies
Nonprofit boards should have a written conflict of interest policy. Understand:
What counts as a conflict (e.g., you or your company could financially benefit from board decisions)?
The process for disclosing and managing such conflicts.
A well-defined policy protects both you and the organization and preserves public trust.
8. Liability Protections and Insurance
Board members face potential legal liability if something goes wrong—though this is relatively rare if you’re fulfilling your duties responsibly. Still, ask whether the organization has:
Directors and Officers (D&O) Liability Insurance to protect board members in legal disputes.
Additional coverage or indemnification procedures as part of its bylaws.
Understanding these protections can help you feel more secure in your service.
9. Relationship with Staff and the Executive Director
A strong relationship between the board and the organization’s leadership is crucial:
The executive director (CEO) manages day-to-day operations and implements board policies.
The board should support and hold accountable the executive director and ensure they have the resources to do their job.
Learn about the current executive director’s leadership style and how board-staff collaboration works.
10. Governance Practices and Board Policies
Effective governance involves setting policies and procedures to guide board activities. Look into:
Term limits for board members.
Board orientation and training opportunities for new members.
Ongoing board assessments are needed to ensure the board’s structure, size, and composition meet organizational needs.
These practices help promote a healthy and effective board over time.
11. Personal Fit and Motivation
Reflect on why you want to serve and whether the board’s expectations align with your abilities and interests:
Are you passionate about the mission?
Do you have skills or expertise that will add value (e.g., fundraising, marketing, legal, finance)?
Will the time commitment and financial support required be feasible for you?
Joining a board is most rewarding when your personal motivations match the organization’s needs.
In Summary
Before joining a nonprofit board, get clarity on the time commitment, fundraising responsibilities, and legal/financial expectations. Make sure you understand the organization’s mission, strategy, finances, and leadership approach. Ask plenty of questions about board policies, culture, and protections, and reflect on whether the board aligns with your interests and values.
By doing this due diligence upfront, you’ll set yourself up for a positive experience – and be better positioned to make a meaningful impact on the organization and its mission.
