Finding board members for my Christian non-profit will not be easy. Once you have identified the skills and experience your non-profit needs, you are ready to identify and recruit new board members. The recruitment process requires both «vetting» a candidate and “cultivating” the interest of a potential future board member until he or she is ready to accept an invitation to become an ambassador and advocate for the non-profit. “Nominating committee” implies that the only function is to nominate board members for election to the board, but that limits our vision of good governance. It is helpful to have a task force or committee of the board authorized not only to identify new board prospects but also to focus on the effectiveness of the board. Serving on a charitable non-profit’s board is about more than just being elected – it requires continuous learning about those served and being an advocate for the mission, making decisions that are in the best interest of the organization, ensuring prudent use of the non-profit’s assets, and looking ahead to help the non-profit plan for the future.
Keep these points in mind:
1. Start with an assessment of the skills, experience, and expertise of your existing board so you can identify gaps. Consider using a board application form that individuals can fill out to indicate their interest in serving on the board or a board member “contract “Once you’ve found a terrific board member who says, “Yes!” get them started on the right foot with an orientation.
2. How big is your board? Most governance gurus caution against boards larger than 13-17, because it is so hard to keep all those board members engaged, and unwieldy during meetings making sure that all voices are heard. On the other side of the spectrum, exceedingly small boards are limiting their perspectives and reach in the community. Nevertheless, each non-profit needs to decide for itself what the right size is. What is the right size for your board?
3. As you think about increasing the diversity of your board you may wonder whether bringing on younger board members, under the age of 18, is permissible? This will be controlled by the state law that governs non-profit corporations in your state.
Besides if you do have any questions give me a call: https://clarity.fm/joy-brotonath