10 Basic Nonprofit Board Responsibilities

What are the basic responsibilities of nonprofit boards? Read this resource written by BoardSource to find out more about the 10 basic nonprofit board responsibilities.

Read below if you cannot access above

What are the basic responsibilities of nonprofit boards?
By: BoardSource
Ten Basic Responsibilities of Nonprofit Boards

1. Determine mission and purpose. It is the board’s responsibility to create and review a statement
   of mission and purpose that articulates the organization’s goals, means, and primary
   constituents served.
2. Select the chief executive. Boards must reach consensus on the chief executive’s responsibilities
   and undertake a careful search to find the most qualified individual for the position.
3. Support and evaluate the chief executive. The board should ensure that the chief executive has
   the moral and professional support he or she needs to further the goals of the organization.
4. Ensure effective planning. Boards must actively participate in an overall planning process and
   assist in implementing and monitoring the plan’s goals.
5. Monitor, and strengthen programs and services. The board’s responsibility is to determine
   which programs are consistent with the organization’s mission and monitor their effectiveness.
6. Fundraise. One of the board’s foremost responsibilities is to secure adequate resources for the
   organization to fulfill its mission.
7. Protect assets and provide proper financial oversight. The board must assist in developing the
   annual budget and ensuring that proper financial controls are in place.
8. Build a competent board. All boards have a responsibility to articulate prerequisites for
   candidates, orient new members, and periodically and comprehensively evaluate their own
   performance.
9. Ensure legal and ethical integrity. The board is ultimately responsible for adherence to legal
   standards and ethical norms.
10. Enhance the organization’s public standing. The board should clearly articulate the
    organization’s mission, accomplishments, and goals to the public and garner support from the
    community.