Report: Grant makers are critical in strengthening boards

When grant makers help nonprofits build stronger boards of directors, both the organizations and the communities that depend on their programs and services benefit, according to a new report by BoardSource and FSG Social Impact Advisors.

Individuals from more than 50 grant making institutions of various types and sizes were interviewed for Advancing Good Governance: How Grantmakers Invest in the Governance of Nonprofit Organizations, which found that an increasing number of nonprofit organizations and grant makers are seeking ways to leverage the assets that boards and board members bring to their organizations.

The report summarizes some of the innovative approaches being taken by grant makers in communities across the country, and provides practical advice to grant makers and grantees alike about the important role that boards play in helping their organizations to meet today's challenges and achieve tomorrow's victories.

As charities and foundations grapple with today’s challenging economic environment, good governance practices and a strong board of directors have become even more important. According to report authors Linda Wood and Anne Mosle, "In these difficult times for nonprofits, getting people to pay attention to issues of board governance can be a challenge — but it is of utmost importance."