For much of my adult life, I have made a personal commitment to improve our community. Through many years of work running a major nonprofit organization and also serving on several nonprofit boards, I have a unique perspective about how anyone who wants to “give back” can navigate the important process of seeking out the right opportunity. Board service can be life changing or a tedious experience depending on how you go about it.
In the United States, not-for-profits were started in the early to mid-1800s to help the disabled, the hospitalized, the needy and children. This approach was an outgrowth of the Elizabethan Poor Laws of 1601, which required the aristocracy to serve the “deserving poor.” Wealthy families founded and ran these organizations and became known from then until now as charities.
What started as an obligation of the few to provide resources to build a stronger and more civil society has now become the shared responsibility of us all. Today, nonprofits are complex organizations led by paid professionals in concert with board members who have fiduciary responsibility. Board members ultimately must defend the agency’s practices, accomplishments, and failures. The best boards function cohesively, with a spirit of shared goals and interests.
Finding an organization that mimics your interests and passion is important. Do your homework and ask others for advice. You can to turn to family, friends and co-workers for information about the causes they believe in and if appropriate, join them in driving an organization’s vision forward.
Another way is to explore board positions is via the Web. Organizations like Metro Volunteers often post board positions for nonprofits.Spend time researching the mission and activities of an organization. The best nonprofits are those that embrace transparency. Other than sensitive employee data or certain donor information, you should be able to learn all about programs, strategic plans, impact metrics, and most importantly finances.
Once you narrow your search, contact the organization and determine their process for selection and requirements for contributions. Nonprofits need specific kinds of expertise to supplement the work of staff. This is a two-way street. A great way to start is to volunteer your time to assist the organization as a precursor to formal board service. There is no better way to understand culture and program delivery than to roll up your sleeves and pitch in.
If you find the right fit for both you and the organization, it is important to review its bylaws, recent audits, budgets, cash position and insurance; especially directors and officers liability coverage that are important in protecting board members and the overall organization. Colorado law requires board members to follow various regulations in good faith. Principles & Practices for Nonprofit Excellence in Colorado published by the Colorado Nonprofit Association outlines important topics including board governance, advocacy and fundraising.
If this all seems a little complex, good. Our community deserves well-managed nonprofits governed by committed, caring board members. Explore your personal passions, understand your obligations and do your part to create a better community for us all.
John Arigoni recently retired as the CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver, is a nonprofit consultant and currently serves on three nonprofit boards including the Colorado Nonprofit Association.
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