Nonprofit Board Service: Benefits Beyond Philanthropy

Are you seeking opportunities to meet and network with other executives, build and hone your leadership skills, and enhance your and your company’s reputation? What if you could do all of these things while also positively impacting your community?

Service on a nonprofit organization’s Board of Directors provides these benefits and much more.

However, it’s not simply a matter of volunteering whenever you have extra time, or showing up when it’s convenient. Serving on a nonprofit Board requires serious commitment, and is inherent with high expectations.

According to the National Council for Nonprofits:

Just as for any corporation, including nonprofit corporations, the board of directors have three primary legal duties known as the “duty of care,” “duty of loyalty,” and “duty of obedience.”

In sum, these legal duties require that nonprofit board members:

Take care of the nonprofit by ensuring prudent use of all assets, including facility, people, and good will; and provide oversight for all activities that advance the nonprofit’s effectiveness and sustainability. (legal “Duty of due care”);

Make decisions in the best interest of the nonprofit corporation; not in his or her self-interest. (legal “Duty of loyalty”);

Ensure that the nonprofit obeys applicable laws and acts in accordance with ethical practices; that the nonprofit adheres to its stated corporate purposes, and that its activities advance its mission. (legal “Duty of obedience”).

Depending on the size and reputation of the nonprofit, the responsibilities of its Board members can be immense.. but also extremely rewarding. You should consider the following when making your decision:

1. Time – There are typically monthly Board meetings, as well as committee meetings. You will likely be asked to committ to attending a certain number of full Board meetings per year, and participate on at least one committee. There are usually one or two major fundraising events annually that you’ll be expected to attend, and possibly a Board retreat.

2. Financial/Fundraising Expectations – Board members are typically expected to personally contribute a certain dollar amount to the organization each year, as well as tap into their professional and personal networks to raise funds. There may also be an expectation of corporate support from your employer.

3. Mission – You should be passionate about the organization’s mission and services; otherwise, you will not be motivated to work as hard as you should to meet your commitments.

4. Culture – A nonprofit is very different from a for-profit business, and you may be surprised (and a bit frustrated) by how its limited resources affects the Board’s ability to address certain issues and opportunities. You should consider how you can adapt to this kind of culture.

Most nonprofits will be ready to discuss their expectations with potential Board members up front to ensure they are an appropriate match. In many cases, new members will be asked to formally commit to certain levels of support related to attendance and financial expectations.

You should be certain of your ability to meet these goals before agreeing to serve, because to not do so after joining a Board can have serious implications for your reputation. Remember, you are joining other professionals who have made the commitment and are working hard to deliver. However, if the opportunity excites you and you’re confident in your ability to contribute, the chance to work with these new colleagues can enhance your professional reputation and lead to relationships that may well benefit your business in the future.

So, how does one find the right organization? There are several sources providing open opportunities in your area, including: BoardSource, BoardNetUSA, VolunteerMatch and your local chapter of the United Way.

If nothing sounds interesting (remember to follow your passion), follow up directly with an organization that interests you and ask about its process for recruiting Board members. Nonprofits are typically very willing to meet with those who already have an interest in their mission, as they know it results in stronger performance.

While a big commitment, nonprofit Board membership has the potential to widen your professional sphere of influence while enhancing your sense of wellbeing. As Diana Kern reported in her article, “Benefits of Serving on a Nonprofit Board from a Nonprofit Board Member,“

For professionals who want to use their skills and passion to make an impact on a nonprofit organization, there are fantastic benefits to serving on a board:

Builds your skill set: Hone the skills you currently possess while serving on a board whether you work in marketing, human resources or finance, and learn new skills that you can add to your CV/Resume and LinkedIn profile.

Grows your network: Meet and collaborate with other passionate and talented professionals while serving on a board and make key contacts for the future.

Builds your brand and the nonprofit’s brand: Not only will your professional brand get a boost from serving as a board member, but you can build awareness and endorsements for that nonprofit through your participation.

Makes you feel good for doing good: Building social capital will give you that burst of professional and personal inspiration you may be looking for, and there is nothing better than the feeling that you can put your skills to good use.

It’s hard to think of other activities that provide both personal and professional benefits like these. So, what are you waiting for?

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