Boards for All is an innovative web video training series that promotes civic engagement for community members on governing boards, councils and committees. The plain language videos, worksheets and resources teach basic nonprofit governance for a range of organizations and provide insight into support for individual members to perform more effectively. Boards for All serves two objectives: to increase personal empowerment and create opportunities for community leadership.
Building Prosperity for All is for people in rural communities and small towns who are working to move from poverty to prosperity. This resource was designed to benefit communities that participated in dialogue-to-change programs using the guide, Thriving Communities: Working Together to Move From Poverty to Prosperity for All. However, no prior experience with Thriving Communities is necessary to get involved.
This guide is a series of handouts for dialogue participants to use throughout the discussion sessions.
Organizing Rural & Reservation Communities for Dialogue and ChangeEveryday Democracy
This guide is a summary of the lessons that Everyday Democracy staff learned in their work with communities that took part in Horizons, a program of the Northwest Area Foundation aimed at reducing poverty and boosting prosperity. Reflections from Horizons organizers and participants are threaded throughout the guide giving the advice and tips further authenticity. While this guide was written for communities taking part in Horizons, the advice and tips are applicable to any community working on any issue through a dialogue-to-change effort.
People in communities across this country want to live where they have the chance to thrive as they age. This is true in all kinds of places – small and large, rural and urban. This discussion will help us talk about the kind of community where people midlife and beyond can live successfully.
This Action Road Map will help communities walk through the steps we need to take to carry out a plan for action. Using this worksheet, you will think about the people, places, and things in your community that can help you reach your goals.
Building Prosperity for All is for people in rural communities and small towns who are working to move from poverty to prosperity. This resource was designed to benefit communities that participated in dialogue-to-change programs using the guide, Thriving Communities: Working Together to Move From Poverty to Prosperity for All. However, no prior experience with Thriving Communities is necessary to get involved.
This guide is an agenda for communities that want to reach out to neighboring communities and regional or statewide groups to identify ways to work together to continue to make progress on moving from poverty to prosperity.
Building Prosperity for All is for people in rural communities and small towns who are working to move from poverty to prosperity. This resource was designed to benefit communities that participated in dialogue-to-change programs using the guide, Thriving Communities: Working Together to Move From Poverty to Prosperity for All. However, no prior experience with Thriving Communities is necessary to get involved.
This guide is a series of handouts for dialogue participants to use throughout the discussion sessions.
Organizing Rural & Reservation Communities for Dialogue and ChangeEveryday Democracy
This guide is a summary of the lessons that Everyday Democracy staff learned in their work with communities that took part in Horizons, a program of the Northwest Area Foundation aimed at reducing poverty and boosting prosperity. Reflections from Horizons organizers and participants are threaded throughout the guide giving the advice and tips further authenticity. While this guide was written for communities taking part in Horizons, the advice and tips are applicable to any community working on any issue through a dialogue-to-change effort.
People in communities across this country want to live where they have the chance to thrive as they age. This is true in all kinds of places – small and large, rural and urban. This discussion will help us talk about the kind of community where people midlife and beyond can live successfully.
This Action Road Map will help communities walk through the steps we need to take to carry out a plan for action. Using this worksheet, you will think about the people, places, and things in your community that can help you reach your goals.
Building Prosperity for All is for people in rural communities and small towns who are working to move from poverty to prosperity. This resource was designed to benefit communities that participated in dialogue-to-change programs using the guide, Thriving Communities: Working Together to Move From Poverty to Prosperity for All. However, no prior experience with Thriving Communities is necessary to get involved.
This guide is an agenda for communities that want to reach out to neighboring communities and regional or statewide groups to identify ways to work together to continue to make progress on moving from poverty to prosperity.
This discussion guide takes a look at when, where, and what young people learn. How do we create the kind of community where all young people will have a chance to learn – in and beyond the school day?
Shaping Our World - Making a case for… Sovereign local organisations and soci...Doug Reeler
A critique of conventional approaches to working with local organisations as vehicles for "Development Project". A motivation for supporting and working with local organisations and social movements as authentic people's organisations pursuing their own social agendas
The Superintendent’s Role as a Community LeaderNAFCareerAcads
For superintendents to be perceived as community leaders, they have to be actively involved in the right organizations. We will discuss how superintendents can impact community engagement and develop the strong community resources necessary for work-based learning and advocacy of college and career readiness for all. Come learn how you can be more effective as a true community leader.
A supplemental guide intended to give people with similar racial or ethnic backgrounds an opportunity to talk with each other about issues of racism in sessions preceding and following the regular diverse dialogue sessions of a community-wide study circle program. These optional discussions are designed to be used with Facing Racism in a Diverse Nation.
This discussion guide takes a look at when, where, and what young people learn. How do we create the kind of community where all young people will have a chance to learn – in and beyond the school day?
Shaping Our World - Making a case for… Sovereign local organisations and soci...Doug Reeler
A critique of conventional approaches to working with local organisations as vehicles for "Development Project". A motivation for supporting and working with local organisations and social movements as authentic people's organisations pursuing their own social agendas
The Superintendent’s Role as a Community LeaderNAFCareerAcads
For superintendents to be perceived as community leaders, they have to be actively involved in the right organizations. We will discuss how superintendents can impact community engagement and develop the strong community resources necessary for work-based learning and advocacy of college and career readiness for all. Come learn how you can be more effective as a true community leader.
A supplemental guide intended to give people with similar racial or ethnic backgrounds an opportunity to talk with each other about issues of racism in sessions preceding and following the regular diverse dialogue sessions of a community-wide study circle program. These optional discussions are designed to be used with Facing Racism in a Diverse Nation.
Building Community Networks for Change: A Promising Practice
Accomplishing meaningful advocacy, be it personal, peer or policy, calls for relationship building, shared learning, and coalitions of common interests. The presentation describes a statewide leadership model directed by people with intellectual disabilities and founded on broad-based partnerships. This statewide network initiated a course for collective action aimed to join self-advocates, professional colleagues, and civic leaders to develop "common cause" projects and influence public policy. Building community partnerships can take action together to make life better for all people.
Communicating directly with your elected officials about issues can make a difference and participate in the political process. Engagement in community affairs and public policy requires accessible tools and strategies. Typically people with intellectual disabilities and those with low literacy have been excluded from having a voice in public policy that impact their lives and the future of their communities.BRC has developed an easy to use video and workbook on specific ways to advocate and tips on how to engage and maintain civic participation. The full length video and workbooks can be viewed on the BRC website/library. www.brcenter.org
Thinking Ahead: My Way, My Choice, My Life at the End. Advance Care Planning. Thinking Ahead builds upon choice making and person-centered planning to support people making their own end-of-life decisions. The book and video series is a partnership between BRC, the California Coalition for Compassionate Care, To facilitate self-direction and decision making, we created the workbook and video to enable people with limited literacy and knowledge about end-of-life decisions to make their own decisions regarding treatment and related decisions. The series can be viewed and downloaded at: www.brcenter.org (library)
end-of-Life planning: Presentation describing the findings from five focus groups about what is important to seniors about planning, care and treatment. final report and video located at:
http://you-determine.org/
“Thinking Ahead - Conversations across California” is an undertaking to learn about end-of-life advance planning user-centered information and communication formats. BRC conducted a series of learning focus groups comprised of representatives from five California cities. Participants provided insight about their understanding of end-of-life advance planning, and made recommendations for user-friendly information and communication approaches. Key learning: individuals were worried about not having choices or being denied the right to decision making at the end of their lives. There was also confusion about end-of-life treatments, the authority of advance planning documents and the responsibility of healthcare agents.
People with limited literacy, diverse backgrounds and intellectual disabilities have been excluded from participating in public policy influence or governmental activities that impacted their lives. Because information is central to decision making and successful community participation, clearly designed materials in “plain” language must be available to ensure all people have opportunities for involvement.
We believe expanding membership in civic associations and boards of directors of nonprofit organizations increases effective policy making and meets the needs of our diverse communities. We know people with varied backgrounds can play an active role in shaping with meaningful participation in advocacy and governance activities.
Boards for All is a web-based learning series designed for a wide range of people to understand the purpose of a nonprofit board of directors, and the responsibilities of its members. It provides a sequence of tools (videos, worksheets and resources) for users to learn about performing effectively on a board of directors, advisory committee or community council. As a plain language toolbox, Boards for All teaches basic boardsmanship that serves various organizations, from self-advocacy groups and advisory committees to large statewide agencies. The series aims to open doors for community members, who may have been excluded in the past, to seek membership, gain experience and contribute their talents.
http://brcenter.org/
Building Prosperity for All is for people in rural communities and small towns who are working to move from poverty to prosperity. This resource was designed to benefit communities that participated in dialogue-to-change programs using the guide, Thriving Communities: Working Together to Move From Poverty to Prosperity for All. However, no prior experience with Thriving Communities is necessary to get involved.
This guide provides advice for organizing the conversations, and a guide for the event host and small-group dialogue facilitators to use throughout the discussion sessions.
This five-session discussion guide helps people get involved in an important issue facing all of us: the well-being of our youngest children. The guide looks at how we are connected to the lives of children in our community and the “invisible” effects of racism and poverty. It also guides people in developing plans for action.
Subtitled "What can we do to make and keep our community healthy, strong, and vibrant", this 4-session guide was developed as a collaboration between The Coalition for Healthier Cities and Communities and Everyday Democracy. The term “healthy community” can mean many things to many people: jobs, schools, clean water and air, basic health services, recreation, celebrations.
Engaging effectively with aboriginal people in primary health networksUniversity of Newcastle
On behalf to the Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association (AHHA), the below slideshow was presented as a webinar delivered on 20/8/2015 as part of the AHHA seminars "Forming Effective Clinical Councils and Community Advisory Committees" see: http://bit.ly/1gY2qvC
CCCOER June 18 Webinar: OER & Supporting PlatformsUna Daly
Quill West, Open Educaiton Project Mgr, Pierce College District and CCCPER President, leads the discussion with Nicole Finkbeiner, Open Stax on how to evaluate OER partnerships through the lens of the CARE Framework.
Our Alarming Reality! Abuse of Persons with Disabilities and What We Can Do About It.
In 2014 the National Crime Victim Survey revealed that people with disabilities face a greater risk of being victimized compared to individuals without disabilities. Studies expose an epidemic rate of violent victimization.
Slides from a webinar featuring California self-advocates Molly Kennedy and Kecia Weller. They are joined by Teresa Favuzzi, Executive Director of the CA Foundation for Independent Living Centers. The team shares ways all of us can make a difference in our communities. Let’s learn more to prevent more. Together we can curb this epidemic!
We are stronger together: The disability and senior communities experience abuse at much higher rates than the general population. The epidemic has grown despite media attention this past year. To date, prevention and education efforts have not made an impact, we believe it’s time to come together and work collaboratively to make significant impact.
The California Foundation of Independent Living Centers, Supported Life Institute and the Board Resource Center joined together to create the “Silence = Violence” Network to address the epidemic of abuse against our seniors and people with disabilities. We want to answer the question - “Why is what we are doing now, not working?”
Hospice Foundation of America: The Being Mortal project began in February 2016. More than 650 organizations have
partnered to engage their local communities in 771 Being Mortal events. Preliminary outcomes indicate that 96% of audience members for the first time will decide on the person they want to make their healthcare decisions if they are unable, think about their end-of-life care preferences, and communicate those wishes to a loved one. Contact for Amy Tucci, CEO at atucci@hospicefoundation.org.
A model to increase awareness of abuse throughout our country. Build coalition of allies to raise awareness and prevent abuse in our communities. Self-advocates and the disability service community must broaden their outreach and activism to stop these crimes. Presentation from state conference in 2015 that reviews facts about abuse, prevention and a collaborative approach to education and prevention.
End-of-life decision making is a delicate and often avoided undertaking. “Thinking Ahead: Conversations across California” is a project to learn from seniors and providers what worries them about end-of-life planning and decision making. One focus group participant said “I want to have a voice in deciding what the last few weeks of my life will be like. And, I want my wishes to be honored.” Read the short report to learn what is important to seniors.
UC Davis, Mind Institute University Center for Disability Studies. The mission of the CEDD is to collaborate with individuals
with developmental disabilities and their families to improve
quality of life and community inclusion. BRC advocacy tools and booklets are highlighted in the presentation.
Equity and inclusion in all domains of life cannot be achieved when persons with intellectual/developmental disabilities are four to ten times more likely than other community members to be victims of violent crime. This presentation highlights how this horrific statistic is the norm in many of our communities.It also suggests easy to implement for community members and law enforcement. For more information contact info@brcenter.org
Individuals with varied backgrounds can play a role in shaping their world through meaningful participation in advocacy and governance. It is believed that expanding access to fuller engagement for some, by providing access to understandable information and support, enriches opportunities for all. The online video series, Boards for All, with plain language training and tools for all users can help community citizens learn about performing effectively as a member of a provider agency board, councils or advisory committees. This award winning (ClearMark Award, Center for Plain Language 2012) is a straightforward training in board governance and facilitation that opens doors for individuals to contribute.
WorkNow provides a “one stop” online website (English and Spanish) where individuals with disabilities, their families, services providers and potential employers can locate employment related resources. It focuses on plain language content to help dispelling myths about “barriers” to employment and supply information about finding integrated competitive jobs. WorkNow was created using a user-centered participatory design so webpages, videos and language would be functional and appealing for a broad audience. Working closely with San Gabriel/Pomona Regional Center staff and a focus group of individuals with disabilities, family members, and providers, BRC crafted an accessible site with easy-to-use directions to resources.
According to the US Department of Justice, crimes against people with developmental disabilities doubled between 2009 and 2012. Molly Kennedy, Chairperson of the CA State Council on Developmental Disabilities, was a presenter at the recent TASH conference.
http://conference.tash.org/sessions/abuse-of-persons-with-disabilities-a-silent-epidemic/
TASH Conference 2014: Abuse of People with Disabilities
Boards For All
1. Boards for All
Board Resource Center
PO Box 6011477, Sacramento, CA 95860 • 916-574-1023 • www.brcenter.org
2. Gloria Wong, Executive Director
Eastern Los Angeles Regional Center
Since 1986, the Eastern Los Angeles Regional Center has been committed to
serving persons with developmental disabilities and their families by providing
services and supports that promote independent decision-making and fulfilling
lives in the community.
Boards for All was developed for boards of directors, committees, councils,
and members of the public who are interested in joining a governing board or
advisory committee. It is about the importance of community inclusion and
how anyone may learn more about becoming an effective leader.
I hope you will enjoy this resource. We look forward to seeing you work to make
your community stronger!
Please use this booklet as a companion to our Boards for All website video
training series www.elarc.org www.brcenter.org
Boards for All was developed in partnership with the Eastern Los Angeles Regional
Center, California State Council on Developmental Disabilities and Board Resource
Center.
2
3. TABLE OF CONTENTS
Welcome..............................................................................................................
Background........................................................................................................
Application.........................................................................................................
Boards of Directors........................................................................................
Role of Board Members..............................................................................
Purpose of Committees.............................................................................
.
Board Development.....................................................................................
Facilitation & Mentoring.............................................................................
Mission t
n
Stateme Mission Statement.........................................................................................
Resources............................................................................................................
3
4. Welcome
Standing up for human rights means advocating for equal opportunities for
all people. As societies work to protect basic rights, they see diversity among
people in their communities as one of the greatest changes taking place in our
world today. Many organizations are remodeling their ways of doing business to
include individuals with different backgrounds, such as race, language, age and
disability. As a result, more people with varied experience are gaining leadership
skills as members of community organizations.
In the past however, people with disabilities were excluded from learning about
issues and making decisions that impacted their lives. Access to information was
denied to individuals with difficulties understanding or reading. Their right to
clear, understandable facts on important matters was ignored.
Too many individuals are overlooked when society uses only traditional ways
of sharing information through complicated language. Full participation
in communities cannot be achieved when information is not accessible.
Communication pathways must be user friendly so basic human rights can be
exercised.
President Barack Obama recognized the importance of this when he signed the
Plain Writing Act of 2010. It requires federal agencies to use “clear government
communication that the public can understand and use.” His executive order,”
Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review,“ also aims to ensure” regulations
are accessible, consistent, written in plain language, and easy to understand.”
We know that individuals with varied abilities can play a role in shaping their
world. It is strongly believed that providing a gateway to information and
inclusion for more people in our society, enriches the quality of life for all.
4
5. Background
My participation on the board of directors has given me a sense of
empowerment, by being better informed of policies, resources and by the
networking that takes place.”
~ Olga Sarabia
Years ago parents who wanted to improve the lives of family members with
disabilities, helped shape California’s Lanterman Act. This law set up the
statewide regional center system of community services for persons with
developmental disabilities to lead more independent lives in their communities.
As non-profit agencies, regional centers are governed by California nonprofit
corporation law and the Lanterman Act which outlines responsibilities of their
boards of directors. The Act also promotes equal opportunities to participate
on regional center boards by requiring 25 percent or more of the members be
persons with developmental disabilities.
Regional centers are required to have boards that represent and answer to
the communities they serve. To govern successfully, board members focus on
large issues and create broad rules or policies that make sure the organization
accomplishes its goals with care.
While the role of a board and its members can seem complicated, the Boards
for All video series and this booklet provide, easy-to-understand formats that
teach successful leadership. They provide guidance for all users who want to
learn about being an effective member of a board of directors, committee or
community council.
5
6. Application
Boards for All is a training series designed with a clear approach to learning
and leadership. It has two purposes: to increase personal empowerment and
to create opportunities for persons with disabilities to be seen as community
members who can be leaders on boards, committees and councils. People who
are members of a board or committee, or anyone thinking about joining, will
find these pages helpful.
Boards for All is divided into five sections:
● Board of Directors
● Role of Board Members
● Purpose of Committees
● Board Development
● Facilitation and Mentoring
Boards for All is aimed at many organizations, from self-advocacy groups, and
stakeholder committees, to large non-profit corporations with multi-million
dollar budgets. It offers assistance with getting involved in community affairs
and teaches responsibilities of a governing board, its committees and members.
Presented in plain language, these tools open doors for many individuals to
contribute to their communities.
6
7. Boards of Directors
Overview
A board of directors is a group of volunteers who oversees a nonprofit
organization carry out its mission. The board is legally and financially responsible
for how the organization operates. Because of this, board members are key
decision makers. They must be well-informed and ensure the organization is
meeting the needs of the community it serves. Board members have a variety of
skills, talents and backgrounds. What they have in common is a commitment to
the success of the organization and the services it offers.
A board’s own way of operating is explained in the organization’s by-laws.
Members, officers and committees follow these governing rules and use
their authority with care. There is no confusion about who is responsible to
the board or what board members are expected to do. A board focuses on
broad oversight, plans and goals, not on all the details and activities of the
organization. It sets “big picture” boundaries for how the organization manages
its programs and finances. These are carefully discussed and agreed upon by
board members.
Sharing and listening to different ideas are central to being a successful board
member. Just as important is understanding key information and assuring a
board makes thoughtful and researched decisions. Once board action is taken,
members must then “speak with one voice” and support decisions that were
approved. Together a board develops and carries the vision of the organization
into the future.
7
8. Boards of Directors
What is a mission statement?
A mission statement describes the purpose of the organization in a way that
is meaningful and easily understood. It answers the questions: who does the
organization serve, and how are the services provided? Board members create
a mission statement with input from the community and people within the
organization. The mission guides development of organizational policies and
future planning.
What does the board of directors do?
A board meets regularly to monitor the organization’s activities and finances and
make plans for the future. It develops board bylaws and policies. To carry out
responsibilities, members elect officers to provide leadership. Officers typically
include a chairperson, vice-chairperson, treasurer and secretary. They have
extra duties that include assuring all board members are informed and active in
meeting the needs of the organization. Officers also suggest processes to help
members work effectively.
A board recruits and trains its members. It also carries out board evaluations
to help members, and the board as a whole, improve how it governs. A board
directs the executive (head of staff ) of the organization whose job is to see
that the organization achieves its goals. The executive director is accountable
to the board and supervises the organization’s staff. While the organization is
managed by an executive, a board is always legally and financially responsible
for the organization.
8
9. Boards of Directors
What is a mission statement?
A mission statement describes the purpose of the organization in a way that
is meaningful and easily understood. It answers the questions: who does the
organization serve, and how are the services provided? Board members create
a mission statement with input from the community and people within the
organization. The mission guides development of organizational policies and
future planning.
What does the board of directors do?
A board meets regularly to monitor the organization’s activities and finances and
make plans for the future. It develops board bylaws and policies. To carry out
responsibilities, members elect officers to provide leadership. Officers typically
include a chairperson, vice-chairperson, treasurer and secretary. They have
extra duties that include assuring all board members are informed and active in
meeting the needs of the organization. Officers also suggest processes to help
members work effectively.
A board recruits and trains its members. It also carries out board evaluations
to help members, and the board as a whole, improve how it governs. A board
directs the executive (head of staff ) of the organization whose job is to see
that the organization achieves its goals. The executive director is accountable
to the board and supervises the organization’s staff. While the organization is
managed by an executive, a board is always legally and financially responsible
for the organization.
9
10. Key Points
Overview
Governance by a board of directors means:
● creating strategic plans and broad policies
● supervising the executive director
● ensuring adequate funding and following laws
● representing the organization in the community
What is a mission statement?
A mission statement describes the purpose of the organization. It focuses the
board’s work and promotes the organization’s vision.
What does the board of directors do?
A board is legally and financially responsible for how the organization
operates. Through policies, it sets boundaries that guide how the organization
accomplishes its work and provides services.
A board meets regularly to oversee the organization’s general activities and
finances. It also develops board bylaws to carry out its responsibilities.
10
11. Role of Board Members
Why would I choose to be a board member?
Volunteer members of a board have legal responsibilities, including duties of
care, loyalty and commitment to carrying out their work. To lead successfully,
members must understand how the organization operates and learn new skills
so they are informed decision makers. Members serve to:
● Contribute to the community
● Help build an organization because it provides important services
● Make a difference
● Learn how to become a leader
Board membership is an honor to be taken seriously. Members provide a
positive link to the community and reach out through their personal networks.
A board is professional and positive. It shares information about the organization
and gathers input from individuals the organization serves. Members always act
with the best interests of the organization in mind.
What are board member responsibilities?
Attend meetings, being prepared and informed.
Develop and follow policies and procedures.
Review and approve budgets.
Participate in public outreach activities.
Supervise an executive director.
Assure laws and regulations are followed.
Develop and carry out long range plans.
11
12. Role of Board Members
Conduct during board meetings
Board members must be informed, ask questions and look for explanations
when something is not clear. An effective board has members who take action
and follow up when needed. All board members treat one another with respect
and encourage cooperation.
Conflict of interest
It is important that board members avoid conflicts of interest. Conflicts arise
when members (or their employers) may benefit from issues a board votes on.
That can include making money as a result of a board decision. State law states
no board member shall be:
(1) an employee of the Department of Developmental Services or any agency
that provides services to a regional center client, if employed in a capacity which
includes administrative or policy making responsibilities, or regulation of the
regional center.
(2) an employee or member of the State Council or an Area Board.
(3) Except as otherwise provided in subdivision (h) of Section 4622, an employee
or member of the governing board of any entity from which the regional center
purchases client services.”
(4) Any person who has a financial interest in regional center operations, except
as a consumer of regional center services.
Code of conduct
Once board action is taken, members “speak with one voice” after board
decisions are made. These actions may be changed later, but governance
decisions must be supported, not weakened by uncooperative activity.
There are times when a board may legally discuss issues in a closed session, not
open to the public. Members must keep information discussed in these sessions12
confidential.
13. Role of Board Members
What are requirements for serving on a board?
Understanding responsibilities as a board member takes time and support.
Reviewing the written guidelines of the organization – the mission statement,
bylaws and meeting process – provides direction to all members.
Members are expected to take part in discussions and contribute. Everyone has
a duty to understand board business and to say what they think. Members also
have the right to ask that information be presented in an understandable way.
For example, if someone at a meeting gives a report that is difficult to follow,
members should ask that it be explained or presented in another way.
Voting is the primary job of a board member. That is why it is most important
to understand an agenda item or issue before voting. Some boards agree that
members can vote by phone or video conference as long as all board members
can participate.
Board relationship with key staff
A board hires and evaluates a senior staff person, or executive director, to
manage the organization. An executive director reports to the board, and
acts as a team member when policies and
plans are developed. A board committee is
responsible for creating an executive director’s The role of a facilitator is
job description and evaluation process for to support the consumer
approval by the full board.
without relying on their
own beliefs and opinions.
13
14. Role of Board Members
How can I prepare for a board meeting?
Board members must review meeting packets to be prepared. These often
include meeting minutes, agendas and related materials, such as executive
director and committee reports, recommendations, and lawmaking updates. If
there is information members do not understand, they have a right to ask for
and receive support for this.
Being prepared also means being organized – both at meetings and at home
by having files with board and committee information to review when needed.
Members should also plan to arrive at meetings on time, be fully prepared, and
ready to contribute.
14
15. Key Points
What are board member responsibilities?
Attend meetings – be prepared and informed.
Develop and follow policies and procedures.
Review and approve budgets.
Participate in public outreach activities.
Supervise an executive director.
Assure laws and regulations are followed.
Develop and carry out long range plans.
Be willing to participate on committees.
Conduct during board meetings
All board members are treated with respect and patience. Hearing differing
ideas and opinions helps members take responsible action and be successful.
Conflict of Interest/Code of Conduct
Conflicts exist when board members vote on issues in which they or their
employer may personally benefit.
Once a board votes, members must speak with one voice and not harm the
board decision that was made.
What are requirements for serving on a board?
Members are professional and positive. They have a commitment to care for
their organization.
How can I prepare for a board meeting?
Members must review meeting packets, minutes, agendas and related materials.
If members have questions or need assistance understanding, they have a right
to receive support for this.
15
16. Purpose of Committees
What is a board committee?
A committee is a group created by a board of directors to focus on special
issues or activities. Because a board has many responsibilities, there is not time
to research, plan and carry out all work needed. Committees are very helpful to
board success because they work outside board meetings to focus on specific
tasks.
How a committee is formed
Organizational bylaws describe permanent board committees known as
“standing committees.” The board chairperson can also decide if other
committees are needed for special purposes. He or she selects another board
member to chair the committee and invite others to join. At times, interested
community members and people served by the organization are asked to
participate. Committees are organized much like boards – with agendas,
minutes and meeting rules.
Committees gather information and perform invaluable work
Committees advise and make recommendations to the board after researching
issues and carrying out assignments. They may also conduct community
meetings, collect information or invite experts to provide additional information.
Committees often meet once a month or decide on a schedule to discuss
progress on their activities and prepare a report to the full board.
16
17. Purpose of Committees
What are three kinds of committees?
Standing Committees – are permanent and created through bylaws of the
organization. Standing committees manage important board business. A
committee chair is appointed by the board chairperson. Examples of standing
committees are:
Executive – acts on behalf of the full board between board meetings
under certain conditions. As a smaller group, it usually includes board
officers and committee chairpersons.
Finance – oversees the organization’s finances.
Development – creates fund raising plans and may carry out public
outreach activities.
Nominating – finds new board members who represent communities the
organizations serves and who have helpful expertise.
Board Development – organizes orientation for new board members and
on-going board training.
Ad hoc Committees – are temporary and end when their assignments are
completed. Example: ad hoc committee that looks into the different locations
for the organization’s new office.
Advisory Committees – often include members from the community who
provide expertise and different viewpoints. They provide advice to a board and
members do not usually have other board responsibilities.
17
18. Purpose of Committees
How does the board use its committees?
A board chairperson makes sure committee reports are on board meeting
agendas and that key information is included in meeting packets. Every
committee is responsible for reporting on its progress. Often the committee
chairperson summarizes committee work, answers questions and presents
recommendations. Board members discuss each committee’s work and any
recommendations put forward. They may
● Ask questions and/or request more information.
● Ask a committee to continue work on specific tasks.
● Take action by voting on recommended activity.
● Review information provided and take no action.
A board could not manage its many duties, consider important issues or
develop resources without the work of committees. Effective board committees
are central to managing the many responsibilities of a successful board. In
addition, committee activities help members develop professional skills and
prepare them for future community leadership.
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19. Key Points
What is a board committee and how is it formed?
A committee is a group created by a board to focus on special activities.
Committees are key to board success because they complete many tasks and
make recommendations. Committees report progress to the board.
What are three kinds of committees?
Bylaws describe permanent board committees. The board chairperson can
decide if additional committees are needed.
Standing Committees – permanent and created through bylaws
Ad hoc Committees – temporary and ends when assignments are finished.
Advisory Committees – often include community members and experts
who provide perspectives.
How does the board use its committees?
A committee chairperson reports on committee work, answers questions
and presents recommendations to the full board. Board members discuss
committee work, and address any recommendations put forward.
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20. Board Development
How does a board of directors grow?
An effective board has members with a range of experience and abilities. This
includes individuals with different backgrounds, and, at times, persons served
by the organization. Community business owners and experts who want to
support the organization also add to a productive board.
Where to find potential board members
A board discusses what it needs to grow and better serve the community.
It creates a plan to encourage people who represent different parts of the
community to join. The board also develops a process for reviewing member
applications and making the final selections.
Board members use their professional networks and community connections:
● Friends and family
● Business and professional networks
● Volunteer centers
● Community associations
● Advocacy groups
● Other agencies that serve the community
Stay active and involved
Visiting the organization’s programs helps board members learn more about
its services and who uses them. Staying informed about issues and talking to
community members about the organization also helps a board focus on what
is best for the organization. Most boards conduct annual planning sessions to
energize teamwork, review organizational goals, and create action plans.
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21. Board Development
What does the board chairperson do?
A board chairperson provides vision and leadership. He or she works closely
with the executive director to share information and take action at meetings
necessary for careful board oversight.
● Leads board meetings
● Makes sure bylaws and meeting rules are followed
● Works closely with the executive director
● Works with committee chairpersons
● Ensure finances are handled properly and laws are followed
● Helps with public outreach activities
● Sees that the board receives training and evaluates its work
Evaluations
A chairperson leads a board in evaluating its activities. This can be done in many
ways, such as reviewing how well the board takes care of its responsibilities as a
whole and how well individual members are doing their jobs.
Evaluations and follow-up action plans by a board helps improve how it governs
the organization. Using a development plan for members can teach them more
about issues that impact the organization and increase their leadership so they
are:
● Committed
● Informed
● Dependable
● Responsible
● Trained
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22. Key Points
How does a board of directors grow?
A successful board has a membership with a range of experience and expertise.
Board members use their professional community connections to recruit
interested candidates.
What does the board chairperson do?
The board chairperson provides vision and leadership.
● Leads board meetings
● Makes sure bylaws and meeting rules are followed
● Works closely with executive director
● Works with committee chairpersons
● Ensure funds are handled properly and laws are followed
● Helps with public relations activities
● Sees that a board receives training and evaluates its work
Evaluations
Board evaluations review how well a board is meeting the organization’s needs.
They also show how well individual members are doing their jobs.
Evaluations provide ways a board improves what it does to govern the
organization.
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23. Facilitation and Mentoring
What does facilitation mean?
Facilitation is support for persons with different abilities who are members
of boards of directors and committees. A facilitator assists in many ways so
a member can carry out responsibilities. It is a way to accommodate board
members so they may participate more successfully and be heard. Providing
facilitation services helps build boards that provide equal opportunities for all
members to contribute and make a difference.
Facilitators use many skills to assist board members carry out their duties. They
work closely with individual members to learn what assistance is needed, and
how they may be most helpful. A board member and facilitator spend time
together preparing for meetings. They also agree on how the facilitator will help
during meetings. Because of this, it is important that a facilitator know about
the organization, the board’s rules and its meeting routines.
Facilitators offer explanations and adapt materials to help members better
understand written materials, discussions and board action. As a professional
support person, a facilitator is careful not to influence the board member about
positions to take on issues or how to vote. The primary purpose of facilitation is
to support the member to contribute in his or her voice.
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24. Facilitation and Mentoring
What is a facilitation plan?
Suggestions to help new board members learn their role include: watching
board meetings, talking with board officers, studying how boards work, and
creating a personal facilitation plan. A facilitation plan makes it clear to the
member and facilitator what they will do together. This can include several
support areas:
● Personal assistance
● Meeting accommodations
● Adaptations to written materials
● Understanding and participating in meeting activities
● Board responsibilities and follow-up
Choosing a facilitator
The key to a successful relationship is choosing a facilitator a member can trust.
Members often use a self-survey about their needs that leads to a facilitation
plan and job description for the facilitator. If a member is new to a board, a
facilitator may also provide an orientation that includes board responsibilities,
rules and ways to participate in meetings.
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25. Facilitation and Mentoring
Before the Board Meeting
A facilitator meets with the member to review meeting packets in preparation
for board and committee meetings. They discuss how the member plans to
participate in the meeting, what questions to ask and what he or she wants to
share. A facilitator also provides explanations and adapts meeting materials by
modifying a document and/or using easy-to-understand language.
During the Board Meeting
A facilitator sits beside or behind the member and helps according to the
facilitation plan – supporting the member to ask questions, express opinions,
and follow meeting activities. The facilitator is often asked to take notes that are
reviewed after the meeting. Members may ask for a short break or request time
to review information presented at the meeting.
After the Board Meeting
After meetings, a member and his or her facilitator review discussions and
board action. They may also plan how to carry out assignments and schedule
preparation meetings.
Meeting Mentors
A mentor is an experienced member of a board or committee who helps newer
members learn more about their role. A mentor leads by example and is a
model for a new member. Some mentors meet with new members by phone or
in person to review board and meeting information. Mentors guide others and
make sure new members are welcomed as valued participants.
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26. Key Points
What does facilitation mean?
Facilitation is individualized support for persons serving on a board or
committee. A facilitator helps the member carry out board responsibilities.
What is a facilitation plan?
A facilitation plan describes what the member and a facilitator will do together.
Members use a self-survey about needs related to board or committee duties. It
leads to a job description for a facilitator.
Before, during and after a meeting.
A facilitator meets with the member to review meeting packets in preparation
for meetings. They discuss plans to participate, questions or opinions to share. A
facilitator also provides explanations and adapts meeting materials.
A facilitator sits beside or behind the member and assists according to the
facilitation plan.
A member and facilitator review board or committee activity after meetings.
They also plan how to carry out assignments.
Meeting mentors
A mentor is an experienced member of a board or committee who helps newer
members learn about their role.
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27. Putting It All Together
A nonprofit organization is required to have a governing board of directors
with a clear purpose and policies that direct its operations. The most effective
members are dedicated to the work of the agency and its vision for the future. In
addition to attending meetings, productive board members lend their talents to
the organization by carrying out all board and committee work to make positive
change.
A board stays informed by members educating themselves about the
organization, key issues, financial matters, and related lawmaking. It takes
thoughtful action with informed decision making for effective board
governance. Successful members are willing to learn new skills and be held
accountable – and above all, making promises that they keep.
Governing an organization requires personal commitment and teamwork. It
is leadership that is a privilege to be taken seriously. Interested community
volunteers must take time to learn about the organization and responsibilities
required before joining a board or committee. It is important to study this
first, before taking on this valuable work. Community members from diverse
backgrounds can and do bring their unique contributions to help organizations
succeed. Everyone can make a difference.
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