In our not-for-profit governance space we are deeply connected to the organisations we govern.
Having been in Wellington last week, clearly visible and clearly on display at the hīkoi, Toitū Te Tiriti is a movement to push for change and united in purpose.
Ownership and active participation
A similar message of taking ownership and directing the waka was conveyed by our keynote speakers Rob Campbell and Dave Letele at our ‘Empowering Communities’ event.
Their conversation leaned in to the premise of investing in ourselves, building confidence and ownership to tell our own stories and promote our own messaging (and yes, this does come with risk), but, perhaps in light of recent closures of charities and not-for-profits, we may be better off in the long run, to steer our own waka in a new direction and move away from old funding mechanisms and to self reliance.
Our guest Adele, General Manager of the Institute of Community Directors Australia spoke at our recent event. ICDA are a great example of building self-sustaining financial independence through a social enterprise model. Adele highlighted the value in taking an entrepreneurial approach and the freedom this provides. They can set their own messaging, not beholden to concerns from stakeholders or funders that their work might not “fit” into the current messaging or strategy set by a government or a grant maker.
Don’t be passive, be active
I’ve heard from many boards throughout the year and there’s a common theme of recruitment. Boards are busy looking for new board members and focused on succession planning, great, fantastic. But, I’d also caution to the time and investment it takes to upskill and bring new people on board as this might not be the magic fix you may hope for.
I hear from many who serve on boards, who complain of board members not reading their board papers, they don’t turn up to board meetings, or invest in championing the organisations intent. We can’t afford to sit and be passive when there’s so much at stake.
An example; a public figure (board member) did not attend a single meeting in this calendar year, the charity is under financial strain. Who’s accountable and where will the blame lie?
Invest in relationships
This year we focused on providing three governance events as an opportunity to connect and bring our community from around Aotearoa together. It’s been very rewarding to meet so many of our community, I enjoy the positive energy and chatter that accompanies diverse, interesting, committed and dedicated community board members!
Coming together puts a focus on the role the board can play, and it’s a very important role, championing your cause, talking to businesses or seeking local sponsors, in our space, we do a lot – we are active in both operations and governance – as we don’t often have the resources on tap to deploy separate responsibilities.
Sometimes we don’t need to look too far, our best networks are our own community sector, our associations, membership and branches can be of huge value. Set about focusing on who you need and get the board networking.
Find a friend
“The power of these events is not just what you learn; it’s knowing that the challenges you face are often shared by others and the willingness of others to offer their experiences so you can face those challenges”, an attendee shared their feedback of connecting with our not-for-profit sector.
Finding a shared connection and knowing others are facing similar challenges, or have faced similar experiences in their governance experience can help to get us through tough times, we all have much to share with each other with common challenges!
Moving forward
- Ownership and active participation: In your governance role, be prepared to work hard to help your not-for-profit grow. Adopt an entrepreneurial mindset and grow your networks.
- Don’t be passive, be active: Sometimes less is more. Focus on an engaged board, you need everyone to step up. Be prepared to let go of inactive members.
- Value of a good mentor: Find a trusted advisor who can provide reliable advice. Invest in these relationships as they can be invaluable.
For those interested in diving deeper into governance here are articles that you might find useful:
Use our Board Evaluation tool – it’s free.
Videos from our mentoring programmes, Tuakana Teina Chair Mentoring and Nationwide Governance Programme.
For not-for-profits considering amalgamation, a helpful resource: Collective Communities Leadership.
