Boards and Volunteers

Sadly, transitions in staff replacements in the nonprofit world typically do not lend themselves to smooth transitions of information.

Your goal as a head fundraiser/head football coach is to always have the best team of staff and volunteers in the game.

Whether you are staff or volunteer, be sure that your board has systems and practices to enable its members to be the stewards of your organization. They hold a public trust, and at the end of the day this starts and stops with their oversight of the CEO.

Reach out and deepen relationships with your board! Get your calls returned right away, and have your board members asking, "How can I help?"

Former board members and, in particular, former board chairs, can be a core source of resources, insight and funds for a nonprofit.
 

By focusing on strong and sincere donor relationships, learning their needs and interests, and providing appropriate opportunities, you also help donors experience the joy of giving and leave a legacy.

Board members are a crucial part of any nonprofit organization's success. When they "get it," it makes for a fabulous relationship with the development team that benefits the organization and, ultimately, its cause. But when they don't … well, it ain't pretty.

Donors want confidence that an organization's important initiatives have been carefully thought out and are aligned with its mission. This is where having a strategic plan is an important step in being prepared for a successful major campaign.

Never have a board member come up to you or others and say, "I signed up to do what?" Clarity is key to success, and shell games are for casinos. Do not mix the two!

When the senior staff and board fulfill their roles and demonstrate that they are strong leaders, a culture is created where philanthropy is a priority and is celebrated.