Setting Up Your Nonprofit's Board Of Directors

If you're in the process of formally creating a nonprofit corporation, then one of the legal requirements is that you create a board or directors. This board is going to have the power of running your nonprofit as well as deciding how funds are managed and spent. It is important that you choose a board that reflects your vision for your organization. Here are some tips on choosing board members who will work with your vision as well as provide good governance for your organization.

Decide on What Skills You Need

Think about what skills you need for your nonprofit and how it will benefit your corporation. Each board member should be able to contribute a type of expertise to the organization. Examples of skills to include are financial or human resource experience. If your corporation involves animals, for example, then people with veterinary experience would be a positive addition.

Make Up Your Own Questions

When you go about selecting your board members, don't rely on standard interview questions. Instead, ask questions pertinent to your organization. You want to find out if your future board members have the time and commitment to your nonprofit. While you can be creative with your questions, make sure they are professional and focused on your needs.

Examine Your Existing Volunteers

Finding eligible board members may be difficult if you have a small nonprofit or are new to the nonprofit scene. However, if you already have volunteers, then take a closer look at them to see if they are eligible board members. You may find that several of them already have the skills and time commitment you need. Another upside is that you will have seen this person's work in action and know if they fit your vision.

Organize Your First Meeting

You must have had at least one board meeting before you can officially become a tax exempt nonprofit. After nominating your board and approving the corporation's bylaws, then you should have your first meeting. Your board will need to nominate officers and appoint duties including someone to act as a temporary chairman. If your board is small, then distributing duties may not be too difficult and one member can do multiple tasks.

If you have a board of directors that work well with each other and are committed to your nonprofit's mission, then your organization has a good chance of succeeding. However, establishing a board of directors and having your first meeting is only one part of incorporating your nonprofit. The rules and procedures can be very legally complicated. Contact a nonprofit lawyer who can work you through the process so that you can have the corporation you envision. For more information, reach out to law firms like Legal For Good PLLC.