Board Development Organizational Structure of the Board Joey Wallace RESNA/NATTAP January 15, 2008

Review of the Fundamentals Your Board is your Board Your Board is your Board We are all in a different place and phase: We are all in a different place and phase: (Start up, operational, growth) Try to pick the priorities and areas most relevant and return with several objectives to work on Try to pick the priorities and areas most relevant and return with several objectives to work on

Review of our Strengths Clear mission Clear mission Specific target population Specific target population Statewide outreach Statewide outreach Little competition Little competition Few if any Board requirements (membership, tenure, etc.) Few if any Board requirements (membership, tenure, etc.)

What are our program barriers? Limited funds Limited funds Invisible clientele Invisible clientele Program Restraints Program Restraints Low Visibility Low Visibility

New Board Member Orientation Checklist Organization’s history and mission Role and expectations of members Bylaws, budget, policies, current members Strategic plan, major goals Staff introductions Briefing on program strategies and results Introduction to committees and advisory groups Calendar of meetings and events Other organizational information Review of audits, contracts, etc.

Individual Board Member Self-Evaluation Use the following questions for individual board member evaluation. For board members answering yes to these questions, they are likely to be fulfilling their responsibilities as board members. YesNoNot Sure 1. Do I understand and support the mission of the organization? 2. Am I knowledgeable about the organization’s programs and services? 3. Do I follow trends and important developments related to this organization? 4. Do I assist with fundraising and/or give a significant annual gift to the organization? 5. Do I read and understand the organization’s financial statements? 6. Do I have a good working relationship with the chief executive? 7. Do I recommend individuals for service to this board? 8. Do I prepare for and participate in board meetings and committee meetings? 9. Do I act as a good-will ambassador to the organization? 10. Do I find serving on the board to be a satisfying and rewarding experience?

Organize Committees around Board Expertise Fundraising capacity Marketing expertise Legal perspectives Legislative influence Accounting/Audit awareness Vendor and Business contacts

Individualize Work Groups and Committees Standing Committees: Executive Governance Committee Finance Audit and Compliance Marketing and Outreach Personnel and Nominations

Individualize Work Groups and Committees Advisory Committees: Special Ad Hoc Committees – specific task oriented Sub-Committees: Loan Review Committee