Nonprofit Board Crisis

Nonprofit Board Chair Post-Election Note To Self

Now that the election process is completed nonprofit board chairs should have on the next board agenda  questions about what role(s) the board played during the process and what role(s) the board should continue to play. As part of their duty of care, getting involved in the world of politics is essential for nonprofit boards.  Face it: what happens in Washington, the State capital, and regional and municipal governments does matter and does affect each and every nonprofit. 

The board is one resource that does not need to be restricted to ensure positive political and policy outcomes.

Nonprofit Board Oversight

Does nonprofit oversight, aka duty of care, include understanding when money is being spent for personal gain?  What do you think is the answer?

Evidence suggests that "yes" was not the answer the board of the Keely's District Boxing and Youth Center would give.  The Washington Postreports that the organization's namesake and founder and his wife have appropriated at lest 10% of the organization's grant funds for personal use.

Now one might argue that there really wasn't a board except for the founder, his wife and maybe a couple of close friends, so the real topic here is about board composition but either way, not cool. 

I might also offer, that the theft was done over a two-year period.  What! It took two years for donors to figure out their money was not being spent as intended?

Nonprofit Child Sexual Abuse

I just learned that Penn State's Ex-President has been convicted on 5 counts: one count of perjury, two counts of endangering the welfare of children, and two counts of criminal conspiracy.  All third-degree felonies and each punishable by up to seven years in prison. 

Now, how about those Boy Scouts...