Not on This Board You Don't: Making Your Trustees More Effective

Rating:
Summary: A Gem for those who manage or raise money for nonprofits
Review: Trusteeship of America's not-for-profits is the cornerstone for the whole edifice known as the Third Sector. Trustees ultimately determine the mission, establish both philosophy and policies, and select the CEO of a not-for-profit organization. A tall order? Yes, but all the more understandable and exciting as a calling with the reading and applying of Art Frantzreb's eye-opener "Not On This Board You Don't".

Calling on five decades of professional experiences among hundreds of agencies and organizations committed to the well-being of others through formal organizations, the author shakes the reader with viewpoints and assertions that will make a difference when applied to an organization and its trustees. The book is bound to influence the immediate and long-term achievements of your entity.

Successful leaders govern most effectively through example. They inspire others by what they do, by how they advocate and live the noblest of ideals. The author lists nine responsibilities and calls on trustees to respond responsibly to the challenge of leadership. Six characteristics to be found in a trustee all add up to an honor that brings obligations and responsibilities.

Philanthropy - called a "ministry" --- urges trustees to recognize it as a process that not only contributes directly to the mission financially, but more importantly involves people in a voluntary way to enhance the scope of the agency. The author challenges trustees to think in terms of millions, not thousands. Providing motivation for giving is an important part of the process which falls squarely on the shoulders of trustees. The management process is also covered.

Managing the process and outlining some methods of accountability provide the reader with a plethora of guidelines and policies. Criteria for investing policies are reviewed.

In conclusion the point is made that as a trustee you give freely of time, talent and treasure and you invite and urge others to do the same.. You hold yourself and the board to the highest of personal ethics and public service.

Not On This Board You Don't is a volume every trustee will want to read, re-read, and keep handy for frequent reference. Brief and candid, it provides America's trustees with a dependable fountain of knowledge and information which will help every trustee be effective and pleased with his/her contribution to society.