They are volunteers, too!
Look here for information and the latest techniques to develop your board or committee. The purpose is to help those who work or serve on nonprofit boards of directors or committees.

~ April 2006 ~ Topic

Last month we talked about good reasons to go on a board. Let's talk this week about poor reasons to go on a board.

	A friend asked me, and it will be a good chance to see him/her more.
	This is a board of "movers and shakers," and I might become a part of their social circle.
	They told me I don't have to raise money.
	They told me the staff is so good, there is very little to do.
	I think I can attend an occasional meeting.
	It's flattering to be asked.
	I don't like something this organization has done, and I'm going on the board to try to get even with them.

Joining a board is a responsibility requiring members to act in a governance role, providing oversight and loyalty to the organization. Thus we should only join boards when we have some passion about their mission and want to do our best to help implement it.

Jeanne Bradner can be reached at Jeannebrad@aol.com.

See our online bookstore for Jeanne Bradner's book on boards: The Board Member’s Guide: A Beneficial Bestiary and Leading Volunteers for Results: Building Communities Today, and Passionate Volunteerism.