Something that keeps most nonprofit leaders up at night the most is board engagement.
I’ve worked with enough nonprofits to know that an engaged, informed board can be an absolute game-changer. When board members show up prepared, ask the right questions, and take action between meetings, an organization becomes stronger, more strategic, and more sustainable.
But let’s be honest—not every board operates that way. If board meetings feel like a group of people politely nodding along while the executive director does all the talking (or worse, a group that only chimes in when something goes wrong), it’s time for a shift. Boards should be active participants, not passive observers.
So, how do you get there? Here’s what I’ve seen work time and time again.
Set Clear Expectations From Day One
A lot of board disengagement starts because board members simply don’t know what’s expected of them. It’s easy to assume that people understand their role when they join a board, but the truth is, many new board members have never served on a board before—or if they have, expectations have varied wildly from one organization to another.
The fix? Spell it out.
- Have a board member agreement that outlines responsibilities (attending meetings, making a financial contribution, participating in fundraising, etc.).
- Be upfront about time commitments and the level of involvement required.
- Make it clear that serving on the board isn’t just an honorary title—it’s an active role in governance, strategy, and fundraising.
When expectations are clear from the start, there’s less frustration down the road.
Keep Board Members Informed (Without Overloading Them)
One of the biggest reasons board members check out? They don’t feel like they have enough information to meaningfully contribute.
Board members aren’t in the trenches every day like staff members are, so keeping them in the loop is critical. But—and this is a big BUT—nobody wants to be buried under a 40-page report before every meeting.
Here’s how to keep board members informed without overwhelming them:
✅ Send a board digest – A short, punchy update between meetings (even a simple email!) can help board members stay up to speed. Think: key wins, financial updates, challenges on the horizon.
✅ Make pre-meeting materials easy to digest – Instead of endless PDFs, provide bullet points, dashboards, or short video updates. If it feels like homework, people won’t read it.
✅ Invite board members into key discussions – If you’re making a big strategic decision, loop in board members before the meeting so they have time to process and bring thoughtful input.
Information is power—but only if people actually engage with it.
Make Meetings Matter
If your board meetings feel like a never-ending slideshow of updates, it’s no wonder engagement is low. Nobody wants to sit through a meeting that could have been an email.
Board meetings should be a place for discussion, problem-solving, and strategic decision-making. Try this:
- Start with a mission moment. Open every meeting with a real story of impact—a client testimonial, a program success, or a quick video from the field. It reminds board members why they’re there.
- Shift from “reporting” to “discussing.” Cut down on lengthy staff reports and focus on what needs board input. Ask board members questions like: What do you see as the biggest risks ahead? How can we grow our fundraising base?
- Stick to a clear agenda. No one wants a meandering, off-topic meeting. Keep things focused and respect people’s time.
The best board meetings make people excited to be there. If your meetings feel dull or unproductive, shake things up.
Help Board Members Play to Their Strengths
Engaged board members don’t just show up—they actively contribute. But not everyone brings the same strengths to the table. Some board members are natural fundraisers, some are connectors, some are great at financial oversight.
Instead of expecting every board member to contribute in the same way, give them a chance to lean into their strengths:
- Have a fundraising-averse board member? Ask them to host an event or introduce you to a potential donor instead of making a direct ask.
- Have a board member who loves numbers? Put them to work reviewing financials or helping with budgeting.
- Have a super-connector? Encourage them to bring new board candidates, volunteers, or donors into the fold.
When board members feel useful and valued, engagement skyrockets.
Keep Board Members Accountable
Here’s the tricky part: If a board member isn’t engaged, it’s okay to address it.
It’s uncomfortable, but nothing drags down a board faster than disengaged members who don’t pull their weight. Instead of letting it slide, have honest conversations:
- Check-in individually. A simple, “Hey, I’ve noticed you haven’t been as involved lately—is everything okay?” can go a long way.
- Offer ways to re-engage. Maybe they need a new role, a specific ask, or a little more guidance on where they can be most helpful.
- Know when it’s time for a transition. If a board member has checked out completely, it’s okay to have a conversation about stepping down. An open seat is better than a disengaged one.
A More Engaged Board Starts Now
An engaged board isn’t something that just happens—it’s something you build intentionally. When board members are informed, feel valued, and have clear expectations, they become true partners in your nonprofit’s success.
If you’re thinking, “This all sounds great, but I don’t know where to start,” let’s chat. Whether you need help restructuring your board, increasing engagement, or navigating board-staff dynamics, I’m here to help.
Book a call with me here, and let’s create a board that’s active, informed, and ready to lead.
Here’s to stronger boards and bigger impact!
Kari Anderson, Principal
Incite Consulting
