Nonprofit Board Members are stewards of an organization’s assets and provide foresight, oversight and insight. They are often compared with being up in the crow’s den in the horizon, looking for storm clouds or rainbows. They aren’t responsible for all day-to-day operations, but they need to be able to look at the bigger picture.

There are many resources to help you locate the best board members, whether your nonprofit is established or is just beginning to get started. One of the best methods to find board members is to tap into existing volunteers. Look at your current committees and events. Also, look for individuals with the potential to be a great leader. You can also use newsletters and social media to promote post-board positions to your local community.

Another option is to look https://workboardroom.com/ on job boards for nonprofits or mission-driven organizations like Impact Opportunity and Idealist. Also, you can search within your professional fields to find people who have connections to nonprofits through their industry associations or companies that give to them. Contact people who seem like good candidates and inquire whether they’re interested in being on your board.

Remember that, just like any staff member, newly appointed board members should be given an extensive orientation to ensure they are aware of their responsibilities and commitment. This includes a clear set of expectations regarding meeting attendance and schedules, fundraising, the responsibilities for which members are chosen (e.g. budget management) as well as other policies on governance.