There is a fascinating practice among nonprofit leaders responsible for convening meetings. They invite ELMO. The red Muppet named ELMO has a seat at board and committee meetings. ELMO’s name doubles as an acronym for the phrase, “Enough, Let’s Move On.” Meeting discussions can wander. When the keeper of ELMO, or any board member, knows […]
In a regional webinar on good governance the chief elected president said, “Bob taught us these practices years ago. We adopted them and now have a more efficient board.” When meeting with boards I ask how the governance routines came about. The common answer, “We’ve always done it this way.” For example: Why does the […]
Nothing is more deflating than to hear a member of the board say, “You don’t understand, I’m just a volunteer.” Volunteers are afforded opportunities to make a lasting impact. Through their passion and ingenuity, they can affect standards of excellence, quality of life, and the success of people, businesses, and communities. Senator John McCain described […]