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TPF JOURNAL
SERVING ON
A BOARD
LINDA LYSAKOWSKI
Serving on the board of nonprofit can be a
rewarding experience. Or….it can make you want
to turn and run as fast as you can! So how can you
be sure your board experience will be one of those
good ones and not one that makes you wonder why
you ever agreed to serve on the board?
What Will The Charity
Expect from You?
During the board recruitment process, ask to see:
•The articles of incorporation and bylaws
•The 501 (c) (3) letter
•A list of current board members
•A list of board meeting dates for the year
ahead
•A board job description
•A board organizational chart showing the
committees of the board
•A conflict of interest statement that you will
be asked to sign.
Ask if there is an attendance requirement at
board meetings, if you’ll be asked to serve on one
or more committee, whether you can chose your
committee, and when this committee meets.
What Should You Expect
from the Charity?
Yogi should expect the organization to be
transparent, comply with all legal requirements,
and adhere to ethical standards.
You should expect the organization be financially stable and to operate programs that are
needed in the community.
You should expect the charity to inform you
of major changes especially in the financial area,
so you can make wise decisions.
You should expect the organization to make
use of your time, talents, and treasure.
You should expect the charity be respectful
of all opinion from board members but to follow
Robert’s Rules of Order at official board meeting.
You should expect the organization to involve
you in the planning process.
Ask about the estimated time you’ll be expected
to give to attend meetings, events, and other board
duties.
Choosing the Right
Charity
If the board job description does not cover this
topic, ask about the financial contribution you’ll be
expected to ae and what involvement is expected
in fundraising activities.
I’ve given lots of advice to donors and board
members on how to choose a charity with your
head:
THE PHILANTREPRENEUR JOURNAL
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