Many people involved in the non-profit sector have generous hearts and strive to make a positive impact on the world, which is truly commendable. Despite this, it is important to distinguish when generosity crosses the line, where decisions are more…
I recently encountered a frustrating experience while applying for membership in a professional society. The application instructions on their website were arranged numerically but needed reordering. Adding to the confusion, the entire website needed more specific information. Seeking clarification, I…
As I sat outside my Uncle Jim’s hospice room, I talked to many people who came to say their goodbyes – they were colleagues, golfing buddies, and of course family. As I sat with them in the waiting room, I…
Think of a location across town, a grocery store, for example. There is probably more than one way to get there. There’s a short way, a long way, the scenic way, and the way with the most traffic, etc. None…
Anyone who knows me knows I love a trip to the nail salon. I not only like the finished look, but I enjoy the experience. When I get my nails done (fingers and toes!), I want a spa experience. As…
How many of y’all are using first and last name only in your meeting minutes? Or gasp! First name only? Stop it! I know, I know, you have a fun group and making this too formal might stifle things. But…
How do Boards let their committees know about actions that came out of a Board meeting? Well, some Boards have committee chairs who sit on the Board. For example, the Director of Membership is likely a Board member and the…
Ack! You’ve got your first meeting coming up and you haven’t the slightest clue about making a motion! Not to worry. While advance motion making can be complex, most people and meetings don’t operate at that level. So, let’s go…
Documents, documents and more documents! There are so many important documents that guide a non-profit, but what if there’s conflict between them? Well, firstly, there shouldn’t be, but if there is, then default to the hierarchy! You may find the…
As the Executive Director, President, or lead volunteer, you are regularly approached by people with “good ideas” that the association should take on. Managing these requests are essential to avoid mission creep but to also avoid squashing enthusiasm. The idea…
