A few simple policies and processes can help trustees to make consistent, unbiased, and thoughtful decisions, including: Conflict of interest policy to minimize the potential for bias and unethical decision making Internal financial controls (and perhaps a whistle-blower policy) to ensure proper financial oversight An investment policy statement to help trustees uphold their fiduciary duties... Read More
Agendas can be detailed or broad brushstrokes, but they always help organize the flow of the meeting and keep the meeting on time and everyone on target. A good agenda also contributes to the discussion itself, keeping the topics coherent and interesting. An agenda can clarify when the board is being asked to advise and when... Read More
Yes. Use this sample document to record your observations during a site visit>> Read More
Preparing your next generation to participate in a foundation goes beyond understanding the financial responsibilities of foundation giving. Hear the following recommendations from a foundation trustee—based on his personal experience—about preparing the next generation for board service. Keep reading how a foundation can prepare its next generation>> Read More
At meetings, your board does the bulk of its work for your foundation, so it’s important to make every meeting count. Your board may be fulfilling its mission and managing its responsibilities, but if board meetings start and finish late, if trustees aren’t prepared, or if there never seems to be enough time to get... Read More
Board engagement is a critical step for implementing an impact investment strategy. Engage the board by learning what individual board members think about the possibility, educating the board on the state of the field, and taking a broad survey of potential areas of interest or investment opportunities that spark the board’s imagination. Understanding what you... Read More