Boards are CRITICAL to the health and well-being of a nonprofit. In Part I of looking at the component of Board Governance, we'll focus on bringing in, orienting, training, and developing the right people.

1. (1) Recruit well. Boards should be representative of the community you serve. Value diversity. Don't recruit only those in your immediate circle. Think about who you need in terms of age, skills, gifts, perspectives, influence, and culture. Have an application process well-defined and follow it. Recruit well.

2. On-board well. Have a protocol for orienting board members to the organization. Give them access to operating documents, financials, and other policy/procedure that will impact their ability to govern. Lay out the expectations and role responsibilities (preferably in a Board manual).

3. Develop the board members. Offer ongoing training that readies and develops your board members. Train your leaders on understanding financial statements, fundraising, image management, legal and fiscal requirements. Make sure leaders understand how to develop a strategic plan and the purpose of vision, mission and core values.

4. Exit members well. Learn from those who have been part of your team and are moving on. These individuals have unique insights and can provide feedback about what you did well and where you could improve. Don't miss the opportunity to learn from the exit of board members.