Ep. 8 - Is Serving on a Nonprofit Board a Good Fit for You?

May is excited to welcome Nicole Miller-Coleman, a professional fundraiser and consultant to nonprofits. Together, they extensively explore the realm of nonprofit board membership. When presented with the opportunity to join a nonprofit's board, what actions should you consider to protect yourself? Furthermore, what potential breaches of the bylaws could a board member commit, and to what extent does promoting diversity hold significance within the board? May and Nicole will answer these thought-provoking questions today on The Nonprofit Counsel Podcast.

 

IN THIS EPISODE:

 

• [01:16] Nicole shares her background working in many areas of the nonprofit sector

• [03:36] Nicole explains the distinction between a Certified Nonprofit Professional and a Certified Fundraising Executive

• [07:52] How do you know if you are suited to sit on the board of a nonprofit

• [12:57] Nicole discusses the importance of bylaws and minutes and transparency around finances

• [18:17] Nicole talks about one of her favorite boards and bringing on a diversified board

• [22:09] What constitutes a conflict of interest for a board member
  

 

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

 

• One should only join a nonprofit board after reading the bylaws and reviewing the financials.

• If you're going to sit on a nonprofit board, you want to make a difference; otherwise, it feels like you're just wasting your time. Make sure the nonprofit appeals to you personally.

• There are many governmental forms that a nonprofit should be filling out. If they don’t file them, the nonprofit status could be in jeopardy. As a prospective member, do your research into if these forms have been completed correctly.

 

RESOURCES:

 

For Profit Law Group - Website

 

Nonprofit Counsel - Website

 

Nonprofit Counsel - Instagram

 

Nonprofit Counsel - Linkedin

 

Nicole Miller-Coleman - Website

 

ABOUT THE HOST:

May Harris has been a pioneer of nonprofit law practice for over a decade, having founded For Purpose Law Group in April 2012. She serves the nation's nonprofit sector with unparalleled expertise, prioritizing her client's missions, visions, and values. She specializes in nonprofit & tax-exempt organizations, social enterprise & business law, and estate planning & charitable giving.

 

GUEST BIOGRAPHY: 

Nicole Miller-Coleman is a skilled, insightful and ethical nonprofit professional with expertise in capacity building, fund development and nonprofit business operations who brings 20 years of experience working with organizations ranging from design studios to universities to aircraft carrier museums. Early career included extensive experience in arts administration and art exhibit production. 

 

CORO Southern California/San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture Arts Leadership Program Fellow. Certified in nonprofit management and leadership (CNP) by the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance in 2012.