Boards in Gear Boost #2

First, let's remember what we talked about.

The goal of this quiz is not to test your knowledge, but rather to reinforce the most important pieces that you learned about nonprofit boards. If you don't answer a question correctly, don't worry. Read the correct answer and think about why how this applies to your board.

As always, if you have questions please get in touch with us: learning@washingtonnonprofits.org or (855) 299-2922.

QUESTION 1: What TWO REASONS explain why it matters that you RECRUIT THE RIGHT PEOPLE to your board?
A) To make good decisions
B) To ensure you like the people with whom you are serving
C) To represent the diversity of your community
D) To have the people funding your work leading the organization

Hint

QUESTION 2: We introduced the Board Matrix tool. Which of these might you include on your BOARD MATRIX?
A) Campaign contributions of a potential board member
B) Professional interests of current board members
C) Demographic characteristics of potential board members
D) Temperament (introvert/ extrovert) of current board members

Hint

QUESTION 3: Which of these is NOT something to include in a BOARD MEETING?
A) Food and drink
B) Time for learning
C) Reading last meeting’s minutes
D) Consent agenda

Hint

QUESTION 4: Think about all of the KEY SYSTEMS related to board operations: meetings, committees, executive leadership, board development, and board evaluation. How could a CHANGE IN HOW YOU ORGANIZE YOURSELVES as a board help your organization oversee its work?

Hint

Second, watch this video

Let’s go a little deeper on Purpose Mapping. Watch this 2 minute video, and then use the worksheet on page 7 of the Boards in Gear toolkit to complete your Purpose Map.

Here’s a sample Purpose Map for the food bank example mentioned in the video.

Third, take Two Steps Forward

We invite you to take two steps forward from where you are now. Here are two topics to explore and bring back to your organization.

  1. Explore race and leadership. The “Race to Lead” study produced some interesting results. Download the summary or the full report and discuss the findings. This would make a great pair/share then full group conversation to give space for one-on-one discussion.
  2. Think about strategic planning. Board members are responsible for steering an organization forward. Washington Nonprofits’ “Strategic Planning in Nonprofits” series gives you a few tools to bring into your conversations.

Fourth, share what you’ve learned

Find the entire Boards in Gear curriculum, videos, kit, and key documents here. Invite fellow board members to watch the board development video so that they are ready to talk about board recruitment.

Have questions? Connect with your peers in the nonprofit sector through the Next Level Nonprofit LinkedIn group.