Igniting the Powder Keg: Seven Keys for Nonprofit Board Engagement
(3 minute read)
Yeah! The book officially launched in paperback yesterday. Yes, the book describes “seven keys,” but there are more than seven chapters and the keys are intentionally not made explicit until late in the book. For those who are curious, here are the keys from the book. Granted, there are more than seven things that can strengthen a board, but these are the most common elements that I’ve seen addressed in the most high functioning boards I’m aware of.
Seven Gs of Highly Effective Boards
- Governance – Board members carry a fiduciary responsibility to uphold the organization’s bylaws, policies, and mission. They must act at all times in the organization’s best interest. Strong governance includes advancing the mission, evaluating the executive director, and safeguarding assets.
- Generative – Effective boards bring diverse skills and perspectives. They think strategically with the executive director, helping address challenges and opportunities. This generative work strengthens leadership and advances the mission.
- Go – Board members should engage directly with the organization’s work—attending events, meeting clients, and volunteering. Firsthand experience deepens understanding, builds commitment, and equips members to tell the organization’s story.
- Give – Financial support from every board member is essential. 100% participation strengthens culture, provides critical funding, and signals credibility to other donors. Contributions of time, advocacy, and testimony further enhance impact.
- Get – Board members leverage their networks to attract donors, partners, and new stakeholders. This “getting” reflects commitment and expands the organization’s reach and influence.
- Get Off – Board service is not indefinite. Term limits and regular evaluations ensure accountability and make room for new leadership. When service is no longer effective, members should step aside to protect the board’s integrity and effectiveness.
- Generosity – At the core of every strong board is a spirit of generosity. Members give freely of their time, expertise, relationships, and resources, reflecting a deep commitment to the mission and its impact.
The wonderful and powerful thing about this is that almost all of this work costs almost nothing. Little or no budget needed to address any of these things. Yet, not addressing them can be very costly!
The book can be purchased by clicking right here.
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Please share this with your friends who are nonprofit leaders.
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This blog shares perspectives on how you could create new story endings that are filled with meaning, power and hope. I facilitate culture-changing processes through keynotes, workshops and consulting that help organizations achieve greater impact. Also, I provide leadership coaching to help executives and aspiring leaders become the fullest expression of who they’re intended to be. If you’re looking for coaching or consulting services, contact me at contactbrianbecker@gmail.com.
#nonprofitleadership #vision #boardgovernance #boardengagement #nonprofitstrategy
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