Why Your Nonprofit Needs a Give-and-Get Policy to Thrive

Running a nonprofit without a give-and-get policy is like hosting a potluck where no one brings a dish. Sure, people show up, but the table looks a little... empty. A thriving nonprofit needs a well-fed table of resources, and your board members are in the best position to bring those “dishes” to the party.

Let’s talk about what a give-and-get policy is, why it’s non-negotiable for nonprofit success, and how you can implement one without alienating your board (spoiler: it’s easier than you think).

What Is a Give-and-Get Policy?

A give-and-get policy is a structured expectation that every board member contributes to the financial health of your organization. It boils down to this:

1. Give: Board members personally donate to the organization.
2. Get: Board members secure donations from others, whether through sponsorships, event ticket sales, or plain ol’ fundraising magic.

This policy ensures that every board member has skin in the game, aligning their actions with your mission in a tangible way.

Why Is a Give-and-Get Policy Crucial?

Here’s the hard truth: A board that doesn’t prioritize fundraising is like a car stuck in neutral. It’s working hard but not going anywhere. A give-and-get policy shifts the focus, creating momentum and driving your mission forward.

1. It Sets the Tone for a Culture of Giving.

When board members personally invest in your cause, they send a powerful message: We believe in this mission. This inspires staff, donors, and other stakeholders to do the same.

2. It Levels the Playing Field.

Let’s face it—fundraising can feel intimidating. A give-and-get policy provides clear expectations and practical tools to help everyone contribute in ways that play to their strengths.

3. It Attracts Mission-Aligned Board Members.

When your board has a clear give-and-get policy, you naturally attract members who are ready to roll up their sleeves and make a difference. It’s a self-fulfilling prophecy: motivated people do great things.

How to Implement a Give-and-Get Policy Without Losing Your Board

You might be thinking, Won’t this scare people off? Not if you roll it out the right way. Here’s how:

1. Be Clear About Expectations From Day One.

Discuss the give-and-get policy during the recruitment process. Explain why it’s important and how it helps the organization achieve its mission.

2. Offer Flexibility.

Not every board member has deep pockets, and that’s okay. The “get” part of the policy ensures that everyone can contribute meaningfully, whether by securing sponsorships, organizing fundraisers, or tapping into their networks.

3. Provide Training and Support.

Fundraising is a skill, and not everyone comes to the table with experience. Equip your board with the tools they need to succeed, like templates, scripts, and guidance from your development team.

4. Celebrate Contributions.

Acknowledge and celebrate every effort, big or small. Public recognition and gratitude go a long way in reinforcing a culture of giving.

Real Talk: What Happens Without a Give-and-Get Policy

Without a give-and-get policy, nonprofits risk:

• Financial Instability: If your board isn’t contributing, who is?
• Burnout Among Staff: When fundraising falls solely on staff, it leads to exhaustion and high turnover.
• Lost Opportunities: Without sufficient funds, programs stagnate, and your mission suffers.

Ready to Get Started?

A give-and-get policy isn’t about squeezing money out of your board—it’s about empowering them to be true champions of your mission. It aligns their passion with your purpose and sets your nonprofit up for long-term success. You've got this!

If you’re ready to transform your board into a fundraising dream team and learn even more about Give AND Get Policies, my course, “How to Get Your Nonprofit Board to Fundraise,” has everything you need—practical strategies, time-saving tools, and step-by-step guidance.

If you’ve ever found yourself frustrated by a board that seems allergic to fundraising, you’re not alone. The most common gripe I hear from nonprofit leaders? “My board just won’t help with fundraising.”

Here’s the thing: most board members don’t dislike fundraising. What they dislike is asking for money. So, let’s reframe the conversation. What if your board could make a massive impact on your fundraising without ever making a direct ask? Sound good? Read on.

Why Fundraising Feels So Hard

When board members balk at fundraising, it’s usually because they think it means begging their friends for money or approaching strangers with hat in hand. Spoiler alert: fundraising isn’t about that. It’s about sharing passion, building relationships, and making connections.

Even if you’ve provided training and tools, not everyone will feel comfortable asking. And that’s okay. There are plenty of ways to engage your board in fundraising that don’t involve “the ask.”

Here are 10 ways to get them involved—and loving it.

1. Say Thank You (A Lot)

Gratitude matters. In fact, it’s critical for donor retention. Your board members can:

• Make heartfelt thank-you calls.
• Write personal notes on thank-you letters.
• Send thank-you emails.
• Thank donors in person at events or virtual gatherings.

Gratitude is an easy, meaningful way to deepen donor relationships.

2. Share Their Networks

Your board members know people you don’t. They can:

• Introduce friends, colleagues, and family members to your mission.
• Invite potential supporters to events.
• Arrange coffee chats or tours with your Executive Director.

Connections build community and open doors.

3. Add a Personal Touch to Letters

Personal notes go a long way. Whether it’s a thank-you letter, appeal, or newsletter, a quick handwritten message from a board member can make all the difference.

4. Forward Emails to Their Contacts

Encourage your board to forward your emails—whether it’s an appeal, event invitation, or newsletter—to their networks. Messages from someone you know are much more likely to get opened.

5. Bring Guests to Events

Board members should always have a +1 (or more!) for your events. Every new face is a potential supporter. And don’t worry—they don’t have to pay for their guests unless they want to.

6. Give a Tour

Ask your board members to lead tours of your organization. It’s a great way to deepen their connection to your work while sharing it with others. Bonus points if they bring friends along.

7. Host a Friend-Raiser

What’s a friend-raiser? Think casual gathering, not gala. Board members can host informal receptions in their homes to introduce people to your mission. No fundraising ask—just storytelling and connection-building.

8. Share on Social Media

Your board members can amplify your message by sharing your posts, events, and campaigns on their social media. Bonus: it’s free and easy.

9. Help with Grant Writing

Got a board member who’s a wordsmith? They can help research and write grants. Even small contributions to this labor-intensive task can make a big difference.

10. Advocate for Your Organization

Your board members are your biggest champions. They can:

• Speak at community events.
• Advocate for your cause with local leaders.
• Write op-eds or letters to the editor about your work.

Advocacy builds awareness and credibility, setting the stage for future fundraising success.

Pick a Few and Start Small

Don’t overwhelm your board. Share this list and ask each member to choose one or two ways to get involved. By starting small, you’ll build confidence and momentum—and before you know it, you’ll have a board that’s excited about fundraising.

Let’s Take It to the Next Level

If you’re ready to transform your board into a fundraising dream team, my course, “How to Get Your Nonprofit Board to Fundraise,” has everything you need—practical strategies, time-saving tools, and step-by-step guidance.

Enroll now and start turning ‘I can’t’ into ‘I’ll try’ (and eventually into ‘I did’)!

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Let's get real for a moment. You know that sinking feeling when your board meeting rolls around? That moment when you realize – once again – that your board members would rather do literally anything else than raise money for the organization they claim to care about?

I've seen it a thousand times. Brilliant, passionate board members who turn into deer in headlights at the mere mention of fundraising. They're suddenly checking their phones, rearranging papers, avoiding eye contact – anything to escape the fundraising conversation.

This isn't just frustrating. This is an organizational death sentence.

The Real Cost of Fundraising Silence

Imagine the potential of your nonprofit, suffocated by board members who refuse to step up. Every networking event they attend, every board meeting they sit through – wasted opportunities. Your staff is working overtime, stretching every dollar, while board members sit comfortably, completely disconnected from the financial realities of your mission.

The pain is real. And it's expensive.

Why Good People Become Fundraising Ghosts

Board members aren't bad people. They're terrified people. Fundraising feels like:

• Walking into a shark tank
• Risking personal relationships
• Performing an impossible task
• Potentially looking foolish

But here's the thing: Your mission is too important to let fear win.

The Transformation Roadmap

1. Rewrite the Fundraising Story: Fundraising isn't a scary ask. It's an invitation to create change. Your board members aren't selling – they're connecting passionate people to a mission that matters.
2. Create a Fundraising Buffet: Not everyone will be a direct-ask champion. Some board members can:
   • Host intimate gatherings
   • Make strategic introductions
   • Share powerful impact stories
   • Write heartfelt thank-you notes
3. Training That Actually Works: Forget boring presentations. Create experiences that:
   • Build confidence
   • Provide real-world scripts
   • Demystify the fundraising process
4. Set Expectations with Compassion: Fundraising involvement should be:
   • Clear from day one
   • Supported, not punitive
   • Tailored to individual strengths
5. Celebrate Every Single Effort: Recognition is your secret weapon. Applaud board members who step outside their comfort zone, no matter the immediate outcome.

The Hard Truth

Your board's fundraising paralysis isn't just inconvenient. It's slowly starving your mission of the resources it needs to create real, lasting change.

But here's the good news: This can change. And I'm going to show you exactly how.

My course, "How to Get Your Nonprofit Board to Fundraise," is your roadmap out of this nightmare. We're not just talking theory – we're delivering practical, actionable strategies that transform reluctant board members into confident fundraising advocates. You can find out more about this course here: https://www.successfornonprofits.com/offers/how-to-get-your-nonprofit-board-to-fundraise

Because your mission deserves more than wishful thinking. It deserves committed, engaged board members who understand that fundraising is the lifeline of nonprofit work.

Are you ready to change everything?

Scroll down to explore this week's grants. Deadlines are always approaching, so take a look and see which ones might be the right fit for your nonprofit.

Happy grant writing!

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UVA Health

UVA Community Health, part of UVA Health, is offering two different types of grants:  Healthy Spark Grants are for organizations that focus on the needs outlined in the community health needs assessment, as well as on social determinants of health; Community Strong Grants are larger grants offered to organizations that UVA Community Health partnered with for more than two years. Must serve communities of UVA Health.

Deadline: April 10, 2025

https://newsroom.uvahealth.com/2025/03/11/uva-community-health-uva-health-grant-applications-2025/

South Asian Bar Association Foundation of North America

The Foundation is offering a Community Grants Program to support access to justice for South Asian communities in the U.S. and to advance causes important to the communities they serve.  

Deadline: April 11, 2025

https://www.sabalegalfdn.org/apply-for-a-grant

Weyerhaeuser Family Foundation

The Foundation’s Youth Initiative supports direct service programs to U.S. nonprofits that promote resilience, stability, and pyscho-social health for youth ages 14-21 who have experienced trauma by adverse childhood experiences, including mental illness in the household, emotional, sexual, or physical abuse, and others.

Deadline: June 15, 2025 (Letters of inquiry accepted beginning May 1)

https://wfamilyfoundation.org/what-we-fund/youth-initiative/

Caplan Foundation for Early Childhood

The Foundation is providing seed money to implement imaginative proposals that exhibit the greatest chance of improving the lives of young children, from infancy to 7 years, on a national scale. Areas of support include parenting education, early childhood welfare, and early childhood education and play. Submit Letter of Inquiry online.

Deadline: May 31, 2025

https://earlychildhoodfoundation.org/#application-process

Scherman Foundation

Applications are now open for its Reproductive Rights and Justice Program in the reproductive health and rights fields. The Foundation maintains its commitment to general operating support, especially for state-based and local organizations. 

Deadline: No deadline

https://www.scherman.org/reproductive-justice

Nathan Cummings Foundation

The Foundation supports U.S. nonprofits working to address inequality, particularly for women and people of color. Apply online through one of several focus areas. 

Deadline: No deadline

https://nathancummings.org

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Scroll down to explore this week's grants. Deadlines are always approaching, so take a look and see which ones might be the right fit for your nonprofit.

Happy grant writing!

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J.W. Couch Foundation

The Foundation supports U.S. nonprofits for programs to combat various mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, bi-polar, PTSD, and more. Other funding areas available.

Deadline: March 28, 2025

https://jwcouchfoundation.org/apply

T-Mobile Hometown Grants Program

Grants support community projects in small towns (population less than 50,000 people) across the U.S. Projects can occur in all fields of interest, including the environment and animal welfare, and are open to nonprofits to lead projects.

Deadline: March 31, 2025

https://www.t-mobile.com/brand/hometown-grants

Internet Society

The Society’s Connecting the Unconnected funding program supports communities and local organizations working to build and expand Internet infrastructure to connect people living in rural, remote, and low-income areas.

Deadline: March 31, 2025

https://www.internetsociety.org/funding-areas/connecting-the-unconnected/

ProLiteracy

ProLiteracy is seeking applications for its Literacy Opportunity Fund to meet the needs of U.S. nonprofits that are doing direct work with adult students. Funded by the Nora Roberts Foundation.

Deadline: April 1, 2025

https://www.proliteracy.org/Literacy-Opportunity-Fund

Pfizer Healthcare Charitable Contributions Program

Pfizer supports U.S. nonprofits that provide broad public benefit, advance medical care, and improve patient outcomes. Grant making areas of interest include patient education, including health screening; patient advocacy for disease awareness; and improving patient access to care.

Deadline: April 15, 2025 (check website for updates)

https://www.pfizer.com/about/responsibility/global-impact/charitable-contributions

Burroughs Wellcome Fund

The Fund’s Climate Change and Human Health Seed Grants promotes growth of new connections between scholars, practitioners, educators, and/or communicators working to understand, spread the word about, and mitigate the impacts of climate change on human health.

Deadline: April 24, 2025

https://www.bwfund.org/funding-opportunities/climate-change-and-human-health/climate-change-and-human-health-seed-grants/

Lawrence Foundation

The Foundation is offering its grant funding to U.S. nonprofits in the following areas of interest: environment, human services, disaster relief, and more.

Deadline: April 30, 2025

 https://thelawrencefoundation.org/application-process/

Dennis Schuman Charitable Foundation

The Foundation awards grants predominantly to qualified U.S. Jewish organizations and charities exclusively for charitable, religious, scientific, arts and cultural, literary or educational purposes.

 Deadline: May 1, 2025

https://www.wellsfargo.com/private-foundations/schuman-charitable-foundation/

Sparkplug Foundation

The Foundation prioritizes grassroots organizing and innovation as the key for creating change and supports projects that engage individuals who have been excluded or marginalized. Funding supports U.S. nonprofits for community organizing projects, education initiatives, and music.

Deadline: May 2, 2025

https://www.sparkplugfoundation.org/apply/

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In the dynamic world of social media, TikTok has evolved from its roots in music and dancing videos to become a global sensation, with over three billion downloads worldwide. As leaders in the nonprofit sector, it's essential for us to recognize the tremendous potential this platform holds.

TikTok is not merely a source of entertainment; it's a powerful tool for nonprofits to connect with a vast and engaged audience. The magic of TikTok lies in its ability to make content go viral. It offers unique opportunities for building awareness and raising donations, making it an attractive platform for organizations like ours.

Furthermore, TikTok has become a vibrant community, fostering creativity, meaningful connections, and opportunities for learning. It is shaping a new generation of activists, making it a prime choice for nonprofits looking to expand their reach, fundraise, and create compelling content without the need for advanced technical skills or production capabilities.

Launched in 2016, TikTok surged in popularity in the United States in June 2020 as young people sought entertainment during the pandemic. Today, it boasts a global presence in more than 150 countries, surpassing even Google and its services like Google Maps and Gmail in terms of accessibility. TikTok's popularity now rivals Instagram and is on the verge of overtaking Facebook.

While initially associated with a youthful audience, TikTok has transcended age barriers, captivating adults with its short, visually appealing content, especially videos. This is where our nonprofit organizations can make a significant impact.

Let's explore four essential steps for nonprofits to leverage this influential social media platform:

Immerse Yourself in TikTok's World

Dive into TikTok to observe emerging trends, the creative use of music, and the content that garners the most engagement. TikTok is a platform where people often follow trends, be it dances, music, or audio clips, and adding their unique twist to resonate with their audience. Additionally, voiceovers, where audio clips are overlaid onto videos, are both popular and straightforward to create. Nonprofits like the Catskills Animal Sanctuary, Jacksonville Humane Society, Nashville Humane Association, United Way, and the American Red Cross have effectively used such videos to raise awareness and tell their stories. While TikTok content is relatively easy to produce, investing in basic equipment like dedicated cellphones for video creation and different types of lighting can enhance the quality of your content.

Highlight Impactful Stories and Messages that Drive Donations

As nonprofits begin creating content on TikTok, they should integrate it into their existing social media strategy and communication campaigns. Explore ways to share your TikTok content across multiple platforms. Features like auto-captioning and text-to-speech conversion can make your videos more accessible. Consider creating challenges, providing informative videos, collaborating with marketing partners, and launching fundraising campaigns to leverage TikTok's potential. For example, the Movember Foundation has successfully used TikTok to promote its awareness campaigns, maintaining a consistent message and imagery across all marketing channels.

Explore Fundraising Opportunities

Once your nonprofit has established a following on TikTok, however modest, investigate the platform's fundraising features. TikTok offers donation stickers that can be added to videos and live streams to collect donations. You can also display "Fundraiser" tags, allowing users to link your nonprofit in their profile. To use these features, organizations need to create profiles on platforms like Tiltify and Benevity Causes to ensure that donations reach the right destination.

Engage with Millennials and Gen Z

TikTok's audience is predominantly younger, with over 50% under the age of 34. This demographic, comprising Millennials and Gen Zers, is digitally savvy, socially conscious, and passionate about various causes, including the environment, social justice, animal rights, and freedom of expression. They represent the future wave of donors. Engaging with these generations, particularly through TikTok, is an opportunity to tap into a passionate, tech-savvy, and socially active audience. For example, nonprofits like Diversability, focused on individuals with disabilities, have found success on TikTok by sharing videos created by and for people with different abilities.

These steps are just the beginning for nonprofits looking to harness the power of TikTok. It's clear that TikTok is here to stay, and investing time and effort in this platform can yield significant benefits for organizations like ours. Many nonprofit social media teams are already integrating TikTok into their strategies, alongside platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, to expand their audience, raise awareness, and thrive in the digital age.

Giving Tuesday is an excellent opportunity to boost your organization's fundraising efforts, and with the right strategies, you can make the most of this day. Here are some key tips to ensure your Giving Tuesday campaign is a success:

Countdown to Giving Tuesday:

Build anticipation and excitement by starting your campaign countdown early. Create engaging teasers to get your supporters in the giving spirit.

Develop a Compelling Story:

Storytelling is crucial in fundraising. Craft a compelling narrative that illustrates the impact of your nonprofit's work. Make sure it resonates with your target audience and elicits an emotional response. Highlight success stories, show the human faces behind your cause, and explain how donations will make a difference. Be sure to highlight the impact your nonprofit has made while making donors the heroes of your stories. 

Leverage Multichannel Marketing:

Utilize various communication channels to reach your supporters effectively. These may include email marketing, social media, your website, and even traditional media like press releases or radio spots. Coordinate your messaging across these platforms to maximize your reach.

Giving Tuesday is BIG on social media, so be sure to share compelling visuals, using catchy hashtags, and creating shareable content. Encourage your supporters to join the conversation.

Segment Your Audience:

Tailor your messages and outreach to specific donor segments. Different donors may have varying interests, preferences, and giving capacities. Personalize your communication to make your supporters feel valued and understood.

Create a Sense of Urgency:

One of the advantages of Giving Tuesday is the sense of urgency it creates. Encourage your donors to take action on this specific day by emphasizing the time-limited nature of the opportunity.

Set Fundraising Goals:

Set clear and achievable fundraising goals for Giving Tuesday. Donors like to know what their contributions will accomplish. Be transparent about how the funds will be used and what impact they will have.

Your fundraising goals should be ambitious but attainable. Let your supporters know you're aiming high and need their help to reach the stars.

Challenge and Match Excitement:

Leverage matching grants or challenges to incentivize giving. When donors know their contributions will be doubled or matched in some way, it can motivate them to give more generously.

Turn Donors into Advocates:

Encourage your donors to be advocates for your cause. Provide them with tools to share your campaign on social media and engage with their networks.

Provide Multiple Giving Options:

Make it easy for donors to give by offering various donation options, such as one-time gifts, monthly recurring donations, and the option to give in honor of or in memory of someone.

Say Thank You with Heart:

Don't forget to express your gratitude. Send thank-you emails, acknowledge donors on social media, and follow up with impact reports to show the difference their donations have made.

Maintain Post-Giving Tuesday Engagement:

Keep the momentum going by sharing updates, stories, and achievements with your supporters. Maintain their interest in your cause beyond Giving Tuesday.

Learn and Improve:

After the campaign, analyze the data to understand what worked and what didn't. Use these insights to improve your strategies for future campaigns.

Remember that Giving Tuesday is just one piece of your fundraising strategy. Building relationships with your donors, engaging them in your mission, and providing transparency are essential for long-term success. Good luck with your Giving Tuesday campaign, and I hope these tips help you raise the funds you need to make a lasting impact!

You're passionate, driven, and fueled by a desire to make a difference. You've got a big vision for your nonprofit, but translating that into a concrete plan can feel overwhelming. Enter the nonprofit business plan: your roadmap to success.

Whether your nonprofit is just starting out, facing challenges, or thriving with years of success, crafting a nonprofit business plan is an absolute must! Why, you ask?

By developing a nonprofit business plan, you're not just creating a document; you're igniting the dynamic roadmap for your organization's journey. It defines the who, what, and how of your nonprofit's operations, assigning responsibilities and charting the exhilarating course towards your ambitious goals!

With your nonprofit business plan, your team is crystal clear on your goals, challenges, and path forward. It sets achievable targets for the next few years, keeping you focused and accountable. It's also your touchstone, revisited throughout the year to ensure your actions align with your vision. No more drifting off course, unsure if you're making a real difference. This plan reminds you and your donors what you're about and, more importantly, what you're not.

Your nonprofit organization also needs a business plan to best secure support of any kind, this is true whether you are seeking monetary donations, in-kind donations, recruiting volunteers, etc. 

Why a nonprofit business plan is your secret weapon:

Unlike for-profits targeting investors, nonprofits appeal to a diverse audience: donors, volunteers, foundations, and clients - all with a vested interest in your "why" and "how." You need to understand how to speak to each of them, and building your plan will help you do that.‍

Ready to write your nonprofit business plan? Here's your 7-step guide:

1. ‍Mind your audience: Avoid jargon and acronyms. Write for everyone, not just experts.‍
2. Outline your plan: Know what information you need to gather before you start writing.‍
3. Keep it simple: 12-point font, Times New Roman, readable margins, and white space are your friends.‍
4. Divide and conquer: Use clear headings and separate pages for each section.‍
5. Data with pizazz: Charts and graphs make your facts sing.‍
6. Proofread like a pro: Even the best writers need an editor.‍
7. Stay positive: Highlight your solutions, not just the problems you tackle.
   

Now, let's dissect the sections:

Executive Summary: This is your elevator pitch, the most read section. Tell your story of change, mission, vision and goals.

Products, programs, and services: Dive deep into what you offer. Detail the need you address and your unique approach. Highlight your impact on your community, both now and in the future.

Operations: This is where you showcase your organizational muscle. Mention your nonprofit's areas of focus, your team, and how you're structured for success. Don't forget your location(s) and past accomplishments if you're established.

Marketing: It's not just about good deeds. Tell everyone about them! Explain your branding, online reach (website, social media, SEO), and how you plan to get noticed.

Operational plan: Daily duties meet long-term dreams. Show your practical side and your big-picture vision. Include daily operations, costs, expansion plans, and how you'll get there.

Finances: Be transparent. Lay out your funding projections and expected expenses. Use tables for easy reading.

Appendix: This is your catch-all for anything extra: board member bios, research papers, or anything relevant that doesn't fit elsewhere.

Remember, your plan is a living document. Use it, update it, and let it guide you towards the impact you were born to make.

Feeling inspired?  Check out our Etsy for One-pager templates and start writing! Your community is counting on your impact and success!

Have you ever felt a pang of awkwardness when reaching out to a donor after a long silence? You're not alone. But what if I told you a simple "hello" could have a bigger impact than you think?

A recent study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology explored the power of casual check-ins. Researchers found that even brief interactions – a phone call, a quick email, a thoughtful text – can significantly strengthen connections.

This might seem counterintuitive, especially with donors you haven't spoken to in a while. But the study revealed an interesting twist: the more unexpected the outreach, the greater the positive impact. So, that donor you haven't heard from in years? They might be pleasantly surprised to hear from you!

Why does this work? Remember, humans are social creatures who crave connection. Peggy Liu, the study's lead author, points out that initiating contact, even after a gap, can feel daunting because we worry about how it will be received. But the research suggests our fears are often unfounded. In most cases, people appreciate being remembered and reached out to.

So, how can you apply this to your donor relationships? Here are a few tips:

• Personalize your message: Go beyond a generic template. Mention something specific about their past support or interests.
• Keep it brief and informal: A quick email or text expressing your appreciation and curiosity about their well-being is enough.
• Focus on connection, not just fundraising: While you can mention your organization's current initiatives, prioritize rekindling the relationship.

By reaching out with genuine warmth and interest, you can remind your donors why they connected with your cause in the first place. And who knows, they might just surprise you with their renewed engagement!

Remember, every donor is worth the effort. Don't be afraid to break the silence and build bridges of understanding. You might just discover that a simple connection can pave the way for future support and lasting relationships.

Finding the Right People to Fuel Your Nonprofit's Mission

Recruiting board members for your nonprofit can feel like trying to find the perfect pair of jeans—frustrating, often overwhelming, and not something you want to do too often. But the right board members? Oh, they’re magic. They bring expertise, passion, and a commitment to your mission that feels like sunshine on a cloudy day. So let’s talk about how to find those people—the unicorns who will propel your nonprofit forward.

1. Start with Your Why: Identify Your Nonprofit’s Needs and Gaps

Before you even think about names, take a step back. What does your organization need right now? Maybe you need financial expertise, someone with marketing savvy, or a connector with a deep Rolodex of potential donors. Whatever the case, your board should be more than a group of nice people who like your cause. Define your nonprofit’s needs and gaps. When you’re clear on your “why,” you can start finding the “who.”

2. Recruit Like You Mean It: How to Target Ideal Board Members

Stop treating board recruitment like it’s something that happens to you. Be proactive! This isn’t about hoping someone magically appears at your gala who’s dying to join your board. It’s about targeted, intentional outreach. Create a list of dream candidates—people you’ve met at events, seen in the news, or know from your network. Be specific about what you’re looking for and why you think they’d be a good fit. You’re not just filling a seat; you’re building a team.

3. Get Personal: The Power of One-on-One Board Recruitment

Nothing says “you’re not special” like a mass email. If you want someone to feel excited about your mission, you need to engage with them one-on-one. Invite them to coffee, lunch, or a site visit. Show them the impact of your work, and then tell them why you think they’d be a game-changer for your board. It’s not about what they can do for you—it’s about what you can accomplish together.

4. Set Expectations Early: Clear Communication with Potential Board Members

One of the biggest mistakes nonprofits make? Being vague about what they expect from their board members. When you’re recruiting, be crystal clear about the time commitment, financial contributions, meeting frequency, and any other responsibilities. No surprises. Think of it as dating—you want both parties to know what they’re getting into. No bait and switch.

5. Look Beyond the Usual Suspects: Diversify Your Nonprofit Board

The truth? Many nonprofits recruit board members from the same small pool of candidates, over and over again. Expand your horizons. Look for diverse voices that reflect the community you serve. Seek out individuals who bring different perspectives, life experiences, and skills to the table. Not only does this make your board stronger, but it also makes your organization more relevant and impactful.

6. Activate Your Current Board Members as Recruiters

Your best recruiters are often the people already sitting around your board table. Encourage them to think about their networks—friends, colleagues, even family members who might be a great fit. Make sure they understand your board recruitment priorities, so they’re equipped to help you find the right people. It’s not just the CEO’s job; it’s everyone’s job.

7. Make It Easy to Say Yes: Streamline Your Board Recruitment Process

Joining a board should feel like an honor, not a chore. Make the onboarding process welcoming and engaging. Provide orientation, mentoring, and clear paths for involvement. You want your new board members to feel like they’ve joined a team, not an old boys’ club with an initiation ritual. Think about it: the easier it is to say yes, the more likely you are to get a yes.

8. Follow Up and Stay Engaged: Keep Potential Board Members in the Loop

Even if someone says no today, it doesn’t mean no forever. Stay in touch with those you admire. Invite them to your events, keep them on your newsletter list, and continue to show them why your mission matters. Timing is everything, and when the time is right, they’ll be ready to jump in.

Bringing It All Together

Recruiting board members is about more than just filling seats. It’s about finding people who believe in your mission and are willing to roll up their sleeves to help you achieve it. So be bold. Be strategic. And most of all, be honest about what you need and why you’re asking. Because at the end of the day, the right board members won’t just serve your organization—they’ll champion it.

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Running a nonprofit isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s like captaining a ship in choppy waters, trying to steer toward your mission while keeping the crew (staff, board members, volunteers) motivated and not seasick. And let’s not forget juggling all the hats—visionary, strategist, fundraiser, and sometimes even cheerleader-in-chief. But here’s the secret sauce: even when the seas are rough, a great leader doesn’t just hold the wheel. They inspire, strategize, and even make a little magic happen. So, how do you become the kind of leader your nonprofit needs? Grab your life jacket, and let’s dive into the top tips for leading with heart, smarts, and a healthy dose of humor.

1. Know Your Why: Staying Mission-Driven as a Nonprofit Leader

Your nonprofit’s mission is the North Star, the lighthouse guiding you home. But leading a nonprofit is like navigating fog—there are days when the goal is clear, and others when you can barely see the horizon. When you’re deep in the weeds of grant reports, staff turnover, and the latest funding crisis, it’s easy to lose sight of the big picture.

Pro tip: Regularly remind your team why you all signed up for this wild ride. Host mission moments at staff meetings, celebrate wins (big and small), and keep those client success stories front and center. When everyone is connected to the “why,” the work feels a lot less like a grind and more like a purpose-driven adventure.

2. How to Build a Strong Nonprofit Board That Supports You

Ah, the board of directors—a blessing and a curse all rolled into one. A strong board is your secret weapon; a disengaged one is dead weight. You need a board that’s not just filling seats but actively rowing the boat with you.

Action step: Set clear expectations right from the start. Board members should know their roles aren’t just honorary; they’re hands-on. Ask them to help open doors, make introductions, and yes, fundraise. Don’t be afraid to have the tough conversations when they’re not meeting expectations.

3. Leading a Nonprofit with Empathy: Why It Matters

The best nonprofit leaders aren’t just smart—they’re empathetic. Your team looks to you in moments of crisis, and they need to see a leader who cares about them as people, not just as cogs in the organizational machine. That means being approachable, listening (really listening), and showing vulnerability. Yes, vulnerability. It’s okay to admit when you don’t have all the answers (because who does?).

Quick tip: Start your meetings by checking in with your team. Ask how they’re doing—not just as employees but as humans. Your staff is juggling a lot, and showing that you care goes a long way. Empathy is the glue that keeps the team together, especially when things get rocky.

4. How to Innovate as a Nonprofit Leader and Drive Change

Running a nonprofit is like being in a constant state of adaptation. There’s always a new challenge, a new hurdle, and a new opportunity to make an impact. But here’s the thing: great leaders don’t just react; they innovate. They see opportunities where others see roadblocks.

Try this: Schedule time for big-picture thinking. It’s easy to get sucked into the day-to-day, but blocking out time to brainstorm new ideas, explore partnerships, or reimagine a program can open doors you didn’t even know existed. Encourage your team to bring their craziest ideas to the table—you never know what might turn into the next big thing.

5. Fundraising Leadership: How Nonprofit Leaders Can Get Everyone Involved

Let’s face it: fundraising is the heart and soul of your nonprofit. Without it, the ship doesn’t sail. But here’s the kicker—fundraising isn’t just the job of the development team; it’s everyone’s responsibility, including yours. And it’s your job to make it less about begging and more about inviting people to join a movement.

Leadership hack: Be the chief storyteller. No one should be able to talk about your nonprofit’s impact better than you. Use your platform to share stories, rally support, and make the case for why your cause matters. And don’t forget to coach your board and staff to do the same—when everyone becomes an ambassador, the fundraising magic happens.

6. Celebrating Wins and Learning from Losses in Nonprofit Leadership

In the nonprofit world, wins are often hard-fought and hard-won, so when you get one, celebrate like you just found buried treasure. But equally important are the losses—the grant that didn’t come through, the program that didn’t hit the mark. Great leaders own the failures, learn from them, and use them as fuel for the next challenge.

Real talk: Create a culture of learning, not blame. When something doesn’t go as planned, debrief with your team, identify what went wrong, and make a plan to improve. Every loss is just another chapter in your success story.

Final Thoughts: Nonprofit Leadership Tips for Navigating Challenges

Leading a nonprofit is one of the toughest jobs out there, but it’s also one of the most rewarding. You’re the captain of a ship that’s making real change in the world, and that’s no small feat. Stay true to your mission, lead with heart, and never be afraid to chart a new course. Because at the end of the day, the best leaders don’t just steer the ship—they make everyone onboard feel like they’re part of something bigger than themselves.

And that, my friend, is how you navigate the stormy seas of nonprofit leadership.

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Creating a bio for your nonprofit’s board members is more than just listing titles and accomplishments. It’s about showcasing the passion, skills, and humanity behind the people guiding your organization. An engaging board member bio can build credibility, inspire confidence, and even encourage others to get involved. But writing one? Well, that can feel like trying to find the perfect blend of business formal and Sunday brunch casual. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with tips, examples, and the must-haves for crafting bios that shine.

Why Your Nonprofit Board Member Bio Matters

Board member bios are often the first impression donors, volunteers, and community members have of your nonprofit’s leadership. A great bio tells a story, builds trust, and connects on a human level. The goal is to highlight what makes your board members not just experienced professionals but passionate advocates for your cause.

Key Elements of an Effective Nonprofit Board Member Bio

1. A Compelling Opening: Start strong with a sentence or two that captures the essence of the person. Avoid jargon and keep it relatable.
2. Highlight Relevant Experience: Focus on the skills, past roles, and accomplishments that directly contribute to your organization’s mission.
3. Show Their Why: Why are they passionate about your cause? This is the heart of the bio—don’t skip it!
4. Personal Touch: A little personal detail—like a hobby, a favorite book, or why they love their dog—is the cherry on top that makes a bio memorable.
5. Call to Action (CTA): If appropriate, end with an invitation, like, “Reach out to Sarah to learn more about our programs,” to keep the reader engaged.

Nonprofit Board Member Bio Template

Here's a template to guide you, with each section pulling in the elements listed above:

[Board Member Name]
Role: Board Member

Opening Statement:
[Name] is a seasoned [profession] with over [number] years of experience in [industry]. As a passionate advocate for [your cause], [Name] brings a unique blend of expertise and enthusiasm to [Your Nonprofit].

Professional Background:
With a background in [industry/sector], [Name] has held leadership roles at [Company/Organization], where they [insert key achievement or project]. Their strategic vision and commitment to [specific aspect of your nonprofit’s mission] have been invaluable assets to our team.

Why They Serve:
[Name] joined [Your Nonprofit] because they believe that [insert personal connection to the cause]. From childhood experiences to professional milestones, their dedication to [specific cause or mission] is deeply rooted in their journey.

Personal Touch:
Outside of the boardroom, [Name] enjoys [personal hobby/interest] and is an avid [reader/runner/gardener—whatever fits]. They are also deeply connected to [community or personal anecdote].

Call to Action:
[Name] is always eager to connect and share more about the work of [Your Nonprofit]. You can reach them at [contact details].

Nonprofit Board Member Bio Example

Let’s take this template and bring it to life with a fictional example:

Sarah Johnson
Role: Board Chair

Opening Statement:
Sarah Johnson is a dedicated community leader and nonprofit strategist with a heart for service. With over 15 years in the nonprofit sector, Sarah’s journey with [Your Nonprofit] began with a simple belief: that every child deserves a safe place to learn and grow.

Professional Background:
Sarah’s career has spanned roles in program management, fundraising, and executive leadership at organizations like [Past Organization]. Her ability to drive strategic initiatives has helped secure millions in funding, transforming communities one project at a time.

Why They Serve:
Sarah’s passion for [Your Cause] stems from her own experiences growing up in an underserved community. She knows firsthand the impact that dedicated nonprofits can have, and she’s committed to ensuring [Your Nonprofit] reaches even more families in need.

Personal Touch:
When she’s not advocating for [Your Cause], you can find Sarah volunteering at her local animal shelter, hiking with her two rescue dogs, or curled up with a good mystery novel.

Call to Action:
Sarah welcomes conversations about how we can better serve our community. Reach out to her at [contact details] to connect.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing Board Member Bios

• Too Much Jargon: Keep it simple. Your bio should be accessible to all, not just industry insiders.
• Overloading on Titles: Titles are great, but they’re not the whole story. Focus on contributions, not just credentials.
• Forgetting the Human Element: Bios aren’t resumes. Share why your board members care about your cause.

Final Thoughts

Your nonprofit board member bios are a chance to put a face to the names guiding your organization. Keep them fresh, keep them real, and remember that a little personality goes a long way. By highlighting the passion and expertise of your board members, you’re not just listing qualifications—you’re building a bridge between your mission and the community that supports it.

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