Great Nonprofits Have Great Boards
A perspective piece written by Jud Fisher, president and CEO of Ball Brothers Foundation.
As a foundation that supports many nonprofit organizations, Ball Brothers Foundation has had a front-row seat to see how excellent boards have transformed organizations over the years. We strongly believe in the importance of outstanding board governance and leadership, as good boards have a profound effect on an organization's ability to serve its constituents and adapt to meet changing community needs.
It is inspiring to see the selflessness of so many citizens who dedicate countless hours to serving on boards, often unpaid and unrecognized. Nonprofit organizations rely on board members willing to give up their weeknights, weekends, and early morning hours for meetings, helping at special events, making connections, hosting fundraisers, reviewing financials, and more. Serving on a nonprofit board is rewarding but can often be equally challenging, as nonprofit organizations inevitably face significant roadblocks that leaders must help them navigate, such as the departure of key staff members, fundraising or financial difficulties, unanticipated expenses, and expanding services.
Through our experience with nonprofits, we have identified several key characteristics top-performing boards share. These boards focus their meeting time on matters of key strategic importance. The chief executive and board chair work together to carefully craft agendas that ensure board members focus on key issues and opportunities. They recognize that the effectiveness of each position is mutually interdependent, and great boards build a culture that values inquiry, constructive debate, and perspectives from all angles.
Effective boards are comprised of people deeply passionate about the organization's mission, often volunteering in some capacity before joining the board. These boards also strongly focus on ensuring prudent financial management to grow and steward the organization's assets. They hold individual board members, the chief executive, and the organization accountable. They bring diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences that inform decision-making and debate. In the words of leadership guru Jim Collins, they “confront the brutal facts.” They deeply understand—and discuss—their organization’s strengths and weaknesses. By embracing continuous learning and using their own networks, they capitalize on new opportunities to strengthen their organization.
Notably, over the past several years, we have witnessed many nonprofits struggling to find board members. This is a significant stressor for executive directors, undoubtedly impacting the degree to which nonprofits can provide services to the community.
How can you get involved?
If you're not serving on a board, we encourage you to consider what skills and background you could contribute. Start by volunteering at a local nonprofit, and then, once you’re familiar with the organization, inquire about board positions. Cities and towns across Indiana have organizations dedicated to connecting citizens with volunteer and board opportunities. If you’re not sure where to start, give your local United Way or community foundation a call to see how they might be able to connect you.
About Ball Brothers Foundation
Ball Brothers Foundation is one of the state’s oldest and largest family foundations. In 2022, the foundation paid out $10 million in grants to support arts and culture, education, the environment, health, human services, and public affairs. The Muncie-based private foundation prioritizes projects and programs that improve the quality of life in the foundation’s home city, county, and state.