"Top Seven Reasons to Appreciate Your Board Members" by Terry Axelrod

I hear so many stories about staff and board challenges when it comes to fundraising. I often think that these challenges occur because once organizations have recruited someone new to join the board, they immediately forget what we call the Benevon Golden Rule. I recommend you add this to your 2008 New Year's Resolutions: treat your board members as if they will become your most cherished major donors.

As we start off the year, here are the top seven reasons to appreciate your board members:

1. Because they love the mission of your organization, just like you do. They really do care.


2. Because they are giving you their time. They are volunteers—they are not on the payroll.


3. Because they access different circles in the community that can open amazing doors for you.


4. Because they will tell you the truth—even when you don't want to hear it.


5. Because every idea they come up with is rooted in them wanting to help your organization grow stronger.


6. Because they will eventually become former board members and you want them to stay connected with you forever, saying good things about your organization out in the community.


7. Because they give money. And, in the long run, if they know that you truly appreciate them and that their involvement has made a positive difference, they will naturally want to give back to you.