I've been thinking about boards. Not the kind you use to build things, the kind you study for, or the kind you dive from, but nonprofit boards. Why? Last month at the MCF annual meeting, new board members were elected. This time of year has me thinking about the energy and excitement volunteer board members can bring to an organization.

What does a board of directors actually do though? It seems like a simple question, but the answer is something people often aren't quite sure about. It's also easy to confuse what nonprofit board members do with what for-profit board members do.

First and foremost, the Board is responsible for setting the strategic direction of the organization. When nonprofit organizations have staff, the Board selects, advises, evaluates and if needed, replaces the executive director/president/CEO. Boards are responsible for ensuring the resources needed to fulfill the organization's objectives are available. They monitor the performance of management, and ensure the organization operates responsibly and ethically. Finally, they establish and carry out a (hopefully) effective system of governance at the board level.

The key difference between nonprofit and for-profit boards is fairly straightforward. For-profit boards concentrate on increasing shareholder value; nonprofit boards focus on how the organization adds value to society through fulfilling the organization's mission. Unlike for-profit board members, nonprofit board members are often responsible for fundraising and for helping recruit volunteers.

Serving as a board member for a nonprofit can be a lot of work, but it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. If you feel passionately about an organization or particular cause, we hope you'll consider pursuing a position on a nonprofit board that supports that passion. Your service can make a powerful and positive impact.