In my opinion, today’s non-profit world has not outgrown boards. These are still important and valuable. Among many other responsibilities, they provide guidelines and establish a framework to help the organization stay on track and true to its mission, they hold the Executive Director/CEO accountable (or are supposed to), they ensure that the organization is meeting all of its compliance requirements and they are responsible for approving budgets and monitoring performance.

The issue lies on whether or not the right people are elected to a board. Non-profits should strive for a board composed of people who are interested, involved and capable. A board in which its members conduct business as a team, yet are not afraid to speak up, question or disagree with each other. A board that is not perceived as “the enemy” by the executive team. On the contrary, these groups should develop an open and honest relationship, understanding that the needs of the organization come first and that they’re working together to achieve the success of the organization and its mission.

Easier said than done, I am sure, but this should be the goal.