Ask these questions before joining a board

If you are considering serving on the board of a nonprofit, there are important questions to ask yourself before you make that commitment:

What are the goals and aims of the organization? Ask to see the group’s mission statement, goals and priorities. Although you may have a great deal of say in the future of the organization, you will want to know its track record.

By Carol Carter The Daily Camera

What is the nonprofit status?

Ask if the nonprofit is in good standing at the state and federal levels; make sure that taxes have been filed and ask for a recent tax return and budget. The people recruiting you should be able to verify that all paperwork is current.

Does the nonprofit have a reputable accountant and lawyer? Some of the best-intentioned individuals can put the organization at risk without an accountant and a lawyer. You never know what misunderstandings might put the organization out of business. Often, companies are willing to work pro bono to help nonprofits with worthy missions.

Is there liability insurance for board members and staff?

Because there are some people who are skilled at taking advantage of nonprofit staff and board members, it is important to have liability insurance for board members and staff. Without this, each person’s assets are liable — home, car, savings, etc.

Does the organization have bylaws?

The bylaws are the basic governing rules. They include officers of the organization and any other legal and business procedures to keep the organization running smoothly.

What are expectations of board members?

Are you expected to help strategically, raise funds, recruit volunteers? What specific tasks does the board need you to help fulfill? Being clear on this will ensure that you are really able to contribute what the board feels you can.

What is the history of the organization?

How long has it been around? What are its successes? Failures? Being open and clear on past failures is one of the best ways to pave the way for future success.

Do you respect the board members and leaders of the organization?

The litmus test is: Would you hire these people to work for you? Do you respect them? It is important to make sure that your energy and commitment are matched by most, if not all, of the board members and employees. If not, resolve that you can set a standard of quality for others that will preserve the health of the organization for the long haul.

Do you have time?

Realistically, do you have time to devote to this cause along with family, business and other personal obligations? Sometimes it is more prudent to be on one board and make a very significant difference than to "sit" on many boards where no one can point to anything specific that you ever contributed.

Carol Carter is co-author of the book "Stop Parenting and Start Coaching" (LifeBound, $16.95). Contact her at [email protected], (303) 542-1811 or visit http://www.lifebound.com.)

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