Bolder Boards for Tougher Times: The Board’s Role in Leading Through Today’s Challenges

Nonprofits are facing a perfect storm. Funding cuts and deficits are becoming more common, while the demand for services continues to rise. In this environment, boards cannot afford to be passive participants. They must serve as active partners in fundraising, strategy, leadership, and advocacy. This guide walks through practical ways boards can strengthen their impact using proven approaches in governance, culture, and decision-making.

1. Fundraising & Financial Oversight

It seems that all nonprofits are experiencing some level of financial pressure. While the need for services grows significantly, funding sources are becoming more competitive. Board support in fundraising has never been more important. But what does that look like in practice?

Fundraising Expectations & Best Practices

Every board member should understand that fundraising is a shared responsibility. Their role can include:

• Giving personally to lead by example

• Asking for support from their network

• Thanking donors to strengthen relationships

• Connecting potential supporters with the organization

  
  

Going Beyond Galas and Events

Traditionally, boards have helped sell tables, invite guests, and promote annual fundraising events. While these activities still have value, donor preferences are shifting. More supporters now prefer smaller, more personal engagements such as coffee meetings, intimate dinners, or mission-focused gatherings where they can have deeper conversations.

Networking Mapping 

Each board member should complete a network mapping exercise to identify relationships that could connect to potential or current donors.

Building a Culture of Philanthropy

Fundraising culture starts at the top. When board members are visibly engaged and supportive of fundraising efforts, it sets the tone for the entire organization. Encourage an environment where everyone, not just the development team, feels responsible for advancing the mission

2. Strategic Thinking & Mission Alignment

Mission, Vision, and Impact

Board members should be fluent in the organization’s goals, values, and theory of change. This fluency enables them to represent the mission effectively in conversations with donors, partners, and the community.

Strategic Planning & Decision-Making

Boards should engage in big-picture, strategic discussions rather than focusing solely on day-to-day operations. This mindset is especially valuable when building relationships with new donors or key stakeholders.

Program & Impact Evaluation

Board members should be familiar with all programs and their outcomes so they can serve as enthusiastic advocates. Training on how to evaluate success through outcomes and key performance indicators ensures that advocacy is backed by credible evidence.

Storytelling

When a board member clearly understands the organization’s mission, programs, and current needs, they can serve as powerful ambassadors. Their impact is even greater when they can share compelling stories of mission success along with a strong case for funding and engagement.

3. Leadership, Communication, and Board Dynamics

Effective Board Meetings

Board meetings can easily become lengthy and unproductive. Setting clear expectations for board behavior and responsibilities helps keep them focused and effective. Board members should know how to prepare for, actively participate in, and ollow up on meetings in ways that are both productive and respectful.

Quarterly check-ins

Many organizations hold quarterly one-on-one check-ins to ensure each board member is engaged and making progress on their specific action items. While it may seem like an extra step, these conversations can significantly boost overall board effectiveness and deepen member involvement.

Board-Staff Partnership

A strong relationship between the board and the Executive Director or CEO is built on clear communication and healthy boundaries. Each side should understand its responsibilities and respect the other’s role.

Board Recruitment, Onboarding, and Succession

Developing a strong, diverse pipeline of future leaders ensures stability and continuity. Recruitment should be intentional, onboarding should be thorough, and succession planning should be ongoing.

4. Crisis Management & Risk Assessment

Scenario Planning

Boards must be prepared for potential risks—whether financial, reputational, legal, or environmental. Scenario planning allows for quick, informed responses when challenges arise.

Communication in a Crisis

Clear and consistent communication is essential during difficult times. Boards should understand their role in both internal and external messaging, ensuring it aligns with organizational values while supporting the leadership through difficult times.

5. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB)

Board Diversity & Equity Training

A representative board strengthens decision-making and community trust. Training on inclusive leadership can help ensure diverse voices are both present and valued.

Cultural Humility and Awareness

Beyond representation, cultural humility means understanding and respecting the lived experiences of the communities served. This builds authenticity and deepens relationships and has never been more important given our current environment.

Optional Enhancements

Storytelling & Ambassador Training

Help board members share the organization’s story and their personal “why” in a way that inspires others.

Advocacy & Policy Training

Teach board members how they can legally engage in advocacy or lobbying to advance the mission and influence policy.

From Insight to Impact

Strong boards go beyond governance. They give, connect, strategize, advocate, and lead. By embracing their role in fundraising, strategy, diversity, and crisis readiness, boards can help nonprofits navigate challenges and create lasting community impact.

If your organization is ready to strengthen its board’s skills and create a greater impact, we can help. Our tailored board development programs equip members with the tools, strategies, and confidence they need to lead effectively.

Book a free consultation today and discover how we can help your board become a powerful force for your mission.