Demystifying the Nonprofit Board of Directors

​One of the biggest mysteries for nonprofit founders is about the Board of Directors.  How do you find the right people?  Is it ok to start with friends and family?  How many do I need and when? What do I even do with them?

First, we need to clarify the purpose of the board of directors. 

1. The Board of Directors is a required by the IRS to qualify a business/nonprofit to be eligible for tax-exempt, charitable status. 
2. The board governs the nonprofit.  They have legal responsibilities to make informed decisions, act in the charity’s best interest, obey the laws, and maintain the mission.
3. The board provides legitimacy and credibility. 
4. The board supports the Executive Director.
5. The Board serves and promotes the nonprofit.

​Formally speaking, the Board of Directors has three legal responsibilities and 10 traditional roles/duties.  These things are essential but there is an even bigger picture why your Board of Directors is critical to your success.  

---

Read More