Roles and Responsibilities

Members of a Board of Directors adhere to sets of bylaws just as other members of a nonprofit organization. Bylaws are designed to outline day to day operations so as to adhere to the needs of funders, other members, government workers, taxpayers, and service recipients.

A nonprofit Board of Directors usually includes, but is not limited to, a Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Treasurer, and Secretary. Each position's term of office is established and often board members are not permitted to serve more than two consecutive terms. Remember to inform perspective members that their commitment to the Board is for a limited time. Members of the Board are often permitted to resign from their position after submitting a written notice. Every Board must have a policy in place to deal with both excused and unexcused absences from meetings, including how many are permitted before termination.

Individual Board Member Responsibilities:

• Attend all meetings and functions
• Be knowledgeable about organization's mission, goals, programs, etc.
• Review agenda prior to meetings
• Serve on committees and volunteer for special assignments
• Make personal financial contribution to organization
• Network in community
• Suggest new recruits
• Keep current with organization's field
• Adhere to confidentiality policies
• Assist with fiduciary responsibilities

Those individuals serving on an organization's Board of Directors are considered an authority when it comes to organizational activity. Members are to be easily accessible and knowledgeable. The Board should be open for regular evaluation. Those who serve on the Board of Directors are "in charge" in that they oversee activities which shape the organization and constituent success and/or failure.

Tips for Recruitment:

• Form a nominating committee meeting
• Take out a help wanted ad
• Look for hands-on volunteers who would make good board members
• Pick local organizations where you don't know anyone, but would like to
• Check local nonprofit recruitment agencies
• Be very open and honest about position
• Develop an application form
• Interview applicant/Have them attend Board meeting