The Case for a “Give or Get” Policy for Nonprofit Board Members
Guest Post: Sue Moore Fenske, CEO, ElevateNPT. Elevate NPT is a Business Member with Nonprofit Connect. Elevate Metro KC focuses on building long-term, life-changing relationships with urban youth, equipping them to thrive and contribute to their communities. Learn more about their services here.
The Board of Directors for many nonprofit organizations establish a “Give or Get” policy for board members. That means each board member either gives the goal amount, they raise it from others, or a combination of the two.
Many other nonprofit organizations elect not to establish a required minimum amount that each board member is expected to contribute to the organization either by giving or getting. The reasons advanced are primarily founded upon a commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the board level. There is a concern that a minimum give or get amount will deter persons of limited means from board service, thereby depriving the organization of the knowledge and wisdom that can be contributed by clients, community activists and others with relevant lived experience.
I understand that as a first reaction but, in my mind, to continue to embrace that attitude is a disservice to those such an approach is intended to protect.
As a longtime nonprofit executive with over 25 years of experience — and someone who also knows firsthand what it means to experience food insecurity while living paycheck to paycheck — I bring a dual perspective to this conversation. I understand both the operational realities of running a nonprofit and the deeply personal challenges that many community members face. This lived experience has shaped my belief that we must hold all board members to a standard of meaningful contribution while also ensuring they are equipped and empowered to succeed. While individuals of limited means may not be able to personally meet that minimum goal, that does not mean that they are not able and willing to tap their networks – employers, workmates, church connections, family members, etc. – to generate support for the mission.
Every nonprofit organization has a responsibility to prepare its board members to be successful in the Development effort. Even board members who are involved in business development in their work life may struggle to know how to start. Regular training on effective techniques designed to develop interest in and connection to the organization is essential. Consistent staff support is equally important.
Working with each board member to identify individuals or organizations in their network with the capacity, inclination, and affinity (CIA) to give is a great way to start. Develop a plan together for cultivating each prospect over a defined period of time and a related timeline. A good donor management platform can be set up to send reminders to ensure that they don’t get behind on their plan; if that is not in place, the staff development team should send those reminders. A debrief after each contact will give each board member valuable feedback and encouragement that will strengthen their confidence.
Nonprofit board members are expected to ensure the organization has the funds necessary to achieve its mission and to be ambassadors in the community, raising awareness and attracting supporters. Implementing the strategy outlined above will actively engage board members in fulfilling that expectation successfully. Making a commitment to such education and support will go a long way toward building and retaining a board of diverse, committed, and impactful board members AND to ensure the organization consistently has sufficient resources to achieve the mission.
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