Leading God's Way: Wisdom for Nonprofit Board GovernanceSýnishorn

It has been proven that empowered leaders ignite change! They are the spark for change in their community, change in the people with whom they serve, and change that transforms problems into innovation and solutions. But what if the leaders on your board are so on fire that they inadvertently burn up those around them who also serve? What if their leading --here, there, and everywhere, doesn’t allow for others to sharpen their own leadership skills and blossom into a change agent themselves? How do you harness that power so that participation is productive for everyone working on your board of directors?

First, please understand that there are some good and not-so-good experiences behind all of that excitement. Many people have lived through things that we can’t even fathom, but they’ve learned how to turn lemons into lemonade. They may never share their personal story, but they are resilient! It is what kept them alive and going during those challenging situations. So, you don’t want to dim their fire now. It is important that we continue to show them the love of Christ and truly appreciate their enthusiasm.

Next, we should always acknowledge their efforts. The biggest downturn on a board can be witnessed when people don’t feel seen, heard, and valued! No one wants to make great contributions to work only to have all of their labor be unrecognized or extinguished. It is like being in a relationship and experiencing rejection from the one you love. It is hurtful because you’ve sacrificed and given your all to make the relationship work, but there has to be honor and respect from both parties to cause it to flourish.

Third, rotating leadership responsibilities is a must! Nonprofit work can be exhausting; therefore, using wisdom is essential. No one person should be leading all of the time. As we will discuss tomorrow, that is a surefire way to burn out. It also doesn’t lend opportunities for every board member to invest the energy required to hone their skills and get a fundraiser, program, or project across the finish line with excellence. So, make schedules for leading committees and subcommittees. Consider having co-chairs. Give every board member the chance to learn, grow, achieve, and thrive.

Finally, make it a point to discuss the chain of command for a particular project. Create organizational charts and discuss the role of the point person(s). While it may be a collaborative effort, help the members to understand who has the responsibility for oversight of the project. Anyone who has the best interest of the nonprofit at heart and ultimately desires its success will be understanding and conform to the standards that have been established, especially since they will encounter that same respect and commitment when it is their turn to lead.

Unfortunately, there are small and large nonprofits that have been governed foolishly and have manifested the fruit of it. However, as children of The King, in everything we do, we must acknowledge and trust God. We can use godly wisdom and put these preventive measures in place before there is an issue!