Historically, not-for-profit organizations have been slow to change their structure. This includes the longstanding, hierarchical nature of governance. Within our organizations, governance frames the responsibilities within which we operate. It also creates the accountabilities for leadership of the organization. It is responsible for policies, the organization’s sustainability, and the effectiveness of the mission. Faced with […]

It may be hard to explain governance, but you know it when you see it. Or when you do not see it. When an organization has structured governance, it runs well, especially during a crisis. When governance is not well structured, the organization will show inconsistent actions in its leadership decisions from both volunteers and […]

Governance as defined in the dictionary:  the action, manner, or system of governing.  The term governance is interpreted differently by our individual life experiences, both good and bad. In the non-profit sector, governance also has several meanings, but the most likely connotation of the word relates to “board governance”, which is the focus of this […]

Do the members of your organization’s board of directors feel engaged?  Motivated? Energized? Connected to your mission? Do they participate? Attend your board meetings? Contribute? Ask questions? Do they hold themselves accountable for board actions? Do they understand their purpose? As you honestly assess and answer these questions (and others), the last question in the […]

I once had a colleague approach me and request some “CEO Time.” This individual didn’t report to me and we had very little regular interaction. When we did, it was often centered around our love of food and adventure when not related to work. As we sat down to talk, I immediately sensed the tension […]