Non-Profit Organizations Blog

A 5-Step Cycle for Effective Non-Profit Board Governance

One of the questions we frequently get is: How do non-profit Boards provide effective oversight? What is their governance role and how do they execute it effectively. The diagram below shows a 5-step cycle that can help illuminate the important aspects of non-profit Board governance. Step 1: The cycle begins with the Board providing overall …

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Two Crucial Decisions for Non-Profit Boards

In this article, we’re going to highlight two important decisions that can throw a Board into turmoil – along with some tips on how to navigate them. The life of a non-profit Board typically follows a somewhat predictable rhythm where Board meetings consist of reports from committees and staff, along with discussions about fundraising goals, …

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Tips for Non-Profits To Manage Complex, Multi-Funder Projects

Our work at LRI often involves facilitating complex planning processes with high stakes in which several state agencies and departments serve as co-leads and co-sponsors. These projects often require establishing and facilitating high-level “blue ribbon” commissions.

When Non-Profit Board Members Go “Rogue”

A fundamental principle that we teach about effective boards is this: It’s the board that makes decisions, not individual board members. Where do you draw the line between the free flow of ideas and board discipline?

The Evolution of Non-Profit Boards

Non-profit Boards of Directors typically follow an evolutionary path as the organization matures. This tool lays out three stages of Board evolution and identifies the characteristic behaviors of each stage. This tool can apply to public agencies, city councils, non-profits, and co-ops. Board members can use this tool to help clarify their role and adapt …

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10 Responsibilities of a Non-Profit Board of Directors

This tool spells out ten important responsibilities of a Non-Profit Board of Directors. Board members – and staff – can use this tool to make sure their boards stay on track. Keep in mind that the Board governs the organization – not individual Board members. Board members need to work together to fulfill these responsibilities. …

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Six Non-Profit Best Practices

What enables the best nonprofits to create lasting social change? This tool, excerpted from “Creating High-Impact Nonprofits” published in the Stanford Social Innovation Review, lays out six non-profit best practices shared by the most successful non-profit organizations. The secret to their success lies in how they mobilize every sector of society – government, business, nonprofits, …

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Streamlined Strategic Planning for a Non-Profit

Here’s the text of an email I sent today to the president of the Board of Directors of a non-profit. I think it speaks to how to do streamlined strategic planning for a non-profit. “Hi, Meg – The best way to make this process go expeditiously is to prepare a draft plan for the Board …

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A Good Day for Non Profit Strategic Planning

Yesterday was a good day with a client in Los Angeles. Here’s the short story.