Philanthropy is modeled, taught, and at times passed on from generation to generation.

In talking with a board chair about her board service on nonprofit boards, I witnessed the passion as she talked about organizations in which she had served and is currently serving. She is enthusiastic and committed to the missions and seeing the impact of their works on her community.

 Whether you are a seasoned board member or a young professional– you are hopefully engaged in your community and likely serving on a nonprofit board. You may question if you are contributing at your capacity and clearly understand the expectations and your board member role. To help, here are five strategies to be a high-impact nonprofit board member:

1.     Have a one-on-one conversation with the board chair and CEO of the nonprofit to let them know how you believe you can best advance the mission of the organization. Find out the needs of the organization and align those with your unique skills and passion. Be committed.

2.     Make a gift. Make a personal stretch gift and seek the highest gift possible from your employer, if applicable. You cannot ask others to support your nonprofit if you are not making a personal gift. If you cannot make a substantial gift, you know people who can. 

3.     Contribute to the fundraising process. No matter what your talents, you have connections in the community. Open doors by making introductions and sharing with your friends, colleagues, and business associates why you support the nonprofit. Take the nonprofit CEO on a donor visit, share stories and statistics of impact, share why you give, seek input, align interests, and garner their support with a major gift.  

A nonprofit organization is only as effective as it has resources to meet its purposes. Securing adequate resources is part of a board’s responsibility. The board’s performance is intimately linked to board members’ willingness and ability to open doors, influence giving, and guide fundraising initiatives. 

4.     Show up and serve. Be present at board and committee meetings and contribute in a meaningful way. Never miss a meeting. Understand the mission and help the organization be innovative in how the mission is achieved and benefits are offered.

5.     Be a raving advocate for your nonprofit. Spend some time with the staff and those benefiting from the nonprofit organization so you can better understand and share with others the impact of the nonprofit. If you are not performing or adding value as a nonprofit board member, roll off.

Review the role and responsibilities of a board member as provided by the nonprofit organization. Be a good steward of, protect, and effectively manage the resources of the nonprofit.

Identify board service opportunities that are meaningful to you, and serve as a high-performing board member.

Nancy Rieves, Ed.D. is a fundraising advisor. She provides overwhelmed nonprofit leaders with a roadmap to maximize and sustain major gift fundraising. She prepares leaders to be confident and successful in raising money. Reach her at nancy@nancyrieves.com.