Periodic review of a nonprofit's governance

In the wake of negative publicity surrounding fiscal mismanagement in some high-profile nonprofit organizations, today's board members and executive staff face increasing scrutiny from the Internal Revenue Service as well as from their members, constituents, and donors. This indispensible guide provides an overview of governance basics and board structure and operations, as well as specific guidance on such key substantive issues as strategic planning, financial management, fund-raising, oversight of the executive officer, human resources management, risk management, and handling of crises.

Each chapter describes substantive governance issues, and includes a Practical Advice section that provides guidance on how to apply principles and addresses different substantive issues. The suggestions contained in the Practical Advice sections, many in bullet point or checklist format, are intended to help nonprofit management and board leadership convert principles and concepts into concrete actions to improve governance and help board members understand their responsibilities.

While this book is an indispensable tool for nonprofit board members, it is of particular value to executive officers and board chairs. It clearly spells out the responsibilities of these two roles and stresses the importance of mutual respect, trust, and support in promoting the organization's goals.