An effective board of directors is a major asset, but a lackluster one can hold a nonprofit back from its full potential. The ideal nonprofit board should comprise a range of expertise, demonstrate full commitment to the organization’s success, and possess the ability to raise money to ensure a promising future.
Experts say the single best quality to look for in a board prospect is a personal investment in your cause. “You need to find people who are passionate, who can literally light people’s souls on fire about the mission, the cause that you’re fighting for,” says Jeremy Cramer, founder and CEO of Exponential Philanthropy.
This collection of stories will help you build a strong board — and empower trustees to govern well.
Editor’s note: Chronicle tool kits are updated on an ongoing basis as new advice becomes available.
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Fundraising8 Ways Your Board Can Drive Momentum in a Capital Campaign
Tap into your board members’ skills and strengths to make the most of their participation in a multiyear fundraising drive. -
Boards
6 Steps to Turbocharge Your Board Recruitment
Passion for the cause and diversity of experience are as valuable as fundraising chops or the capacity to give big, experts say. -
Boards
Skilled, Diverse, and Engaged — 2025 Will Require More From Boards
Boards will be more important than ever as nonprofits navigate a tricky financial landscape and political uncertainty. -
Boards
How to Create a Culture of Fundraising on Your Board
You shouldn’t assume trustees know how to raise money simply because they joined your board, experts say. Here are nine ways to build a board that prioritizes fundraising — and help them succeed. -
Your Nonprofit Coach
Nonprofit Leaders: Here’s How to Recruit Board Members — Even in a Crisis
How to make a better pitch to candidates for board service and six ways to improve recruitment overall. -
Advice
Why Money Shouldn’t Trump Mission When Choosing Board Members
When nonprofits fill their boards with megawealthy people, mission suffers and differing viewpoints are lacking. Here’s why economic diversity among trustees is good for nonprofits and how to make it happen. -
Advice
How to Identify First-Rate Board Members
A guide to choosing trustees outlines the characteristics that make the best candidates and offers tips for judging important intangible qualities. -
Advice
12 Ways to Be Sure Your Board Is Active and Committed to Your Cause
Steps any nonprofit can take to involve its trustees more fully in fundraising and governance. -
Advice
A Sample Form for Outlining a Board Member’s Responsibilities
Use this sample to craft an agreement with your trustees that outlines a board member’s responsibilities to your organization. -
Advice
How to Fix 5 Common Board-Meeting Problems
By making the most of members’ time and energy during meetings, you can help trustees better serve your nonprofit.
