How to Find Nonprofit Board Members

Nonprofit Board Members serve as stewards of the assets of an organization and provide foresight, oversight, and insight. They are often compared to being at the top of the crow’s nest and scanning the sky for rainbows or storm clouds. While they’re not in charge of the daily operations, they have to be capable of seeing the bigger image and know what’s necessary to make things happen.

If your non-profit organization is established or a start-up, there are many resources to help find board members who are suitable. One of the most effective ways to find board members is to tap into existing volunteers. Check out your current committees and events. Also look for people who are likely to be a great leader. You can also use social media and newsletters to advertise the positions on your board to your community.

Search job boards like Impact Opportunity or Idealist for nonprofits and mission-driven organizations. Also, search in your professional fields to find people who might be connected to nonprofits through their industries associations or through corporations that give to them as part of their philanthropy. If you find certain people who seem my latest blog post to be ideal candidates get in touch with them and see if they are interested in joining your board.

Remember that, just like any other staff member, new board members must receive an in-depth orientation to ensure they are aware of their responsibilities and commitment. This includes a set of clearly defined expectations regarding attendance at meetings and schedules, fundraising, the responsibilities of board members for which they are chosen (e.g. budget management) as well as other policies regarding governance.