Board of Directors
A nonprofit board of directors is the governing body responsible for organizational oversight, fiduciary duty, and strategic direction. Board members often play a key role in fundraising.
A board of directors is the governing body of a nonprofit organization, responsible for oversight, strategic direction, and fiduciary accountability. Board members serve as volunteers and are legally responsible for the organization's mission and financial health.
Why It Matters for Fundraising
Board members are often expected to be active fundraisers — giving personally and helping secure gifts from their networks. The phrase "give, get, or get off" reflects the expectation that board members either donate, solicit donations, or make way for someone who will. Organizations with engaged, fundraising-active boards consistently outperform those without.
Board Fundraising Responsibilities
Most nonprofits expect board members to make a personal annual gift (at whatever level is meaningful), identify and introduce prospective donors, attend fundraising events, and advocate for the organization publicly. A 100% board giving rate is a common goal and a signal to foundations and major donors that leadership is invested.