Board Member Readiness Assessment | Foundation Group

Board Member Readiness Assessment

This assessment tool is designed for both prospective board members and nonprofit organizations.

Individuals can evaluate their readiness to serve effectively on a nonprofit board.

Organizations can use it to assess and document a candidate's understanding of board responsibilities and commitment to governance duties.

Complete the checklist below to identify strengths and areas for development across six essential areas of board service.

Personalize Your Assessment

Your Name

Organization Name

Board/Officer Title

Assessment Progress

0% Complete

Mission Alignment 0/2 Complete

Evaluate your connection to the organization's purpose and values

I understand and believe in the mission

Can you clearly articulate the organization's purpose, values, and intended impact in your community? Do you feel personally connected to this work?

I know why this nonprofit exists and who it serves

Understand the target beneficiaries, community needs addressed, how success is measured, and the unique role this organization plays.

Pro Tip: Schedule time with the Executive Director to tour programs, meet clients, and see the mission in action. This firsthand experience deepens your understanding and passion.

Strengthen Your Board Governance

Foundation Group's Assurance Program provides comprehensive board support

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Legal Responsibility 0/3 Complete

Understand your fiduciary duties and legal obligations

The Three Fiduciary Duties

Duty of Care: Make informed decisions with reasonable attention
Duty of Loyalty: Act in the organization's best interests
Duty of Obedience: Follow the mission and comply with laws

I understand I'm legally accountable as a board member

Familiar with the three fiduciary duties: duty of care, duty of loyalty, and duty of obedience to the mission.

I agree to act in the best interest of the organization at all times

Committed to putting organizational needs above personal, professional, or financial interests in all board decisions.

I understand director and officer insurance coverage

Know what protection exists, potential personal liability, and circumstances not covered by insurance policies.

Legal Protection: Ask to review the organization's D&O insurance policy and understand any coverage limits or exclusions that might affect you.

Time & Commitment 0/3 Complete

Assess your capacity for meaningful engagement

I can attend meetings and stay engaged

Commit to regular attendance, thorough preparation by reading materials in advance, and active participation in discussions.

I'm willing to serve for the full term

Understand the term length, renewal expectations, and commitment to organizational continuity and relationship building.

I can commit 5-10 hours per month minimum

Time for board meetings, preparation, committee work, special events, and strategic planning sessions.

Time Management: Most effective board members spend 8-12 hours monthly on board activities. Block this time in your calendar like any important commitment.

Conflict of Interest 0/3 Complete

Evaluate potential conflicts and disclosure needs

I've disclosed any personal or financial conflicts

Complete transparency about business relationships, investments, or other interests that could create conflicts with board decisions.

I'm not being paid by the nonprofit for my service to the board

Board service is voluntary with no compensation. Reasonable expense reimbursement for travel and meals may be allowed.

I have disclosed relationships to other board members or staff

Family relationships, business partnerships, or close personal relationships that could influence objectivity in decision-making.

Annual Process: Most organizations require annual conflict of interest disclosure forms. Be proactive about updating disclosures when circumstances change.

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Foundation Group's Assurance Program helps strengthen your nonprofit's governance

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Bylaws & Oversight 0/3 Complete

Review governance knowledge and oversight role

I've read the bylaws and governing documents

Understand organizational structure, decision-making processes, board member responsibilities, and committee structures.

I understand the board oversees—it doesn't run daily operations

Clear distinction between governance role and management functions, respecting staff autonomy while ensuring accountability.

I've reviewed recent board minutes and financial statements

Understand current organizational status, recent decisions, financial health, and ongoing challenges or opportunities.

Preparation Tip: Request the last 12 months of board minutes and the most recent audit or financial review before your first meeting.

Personal Contribution 0/3 Complete

Plan your unique value and engagement strategy

I'm ready to contribute time, skills, or money as needed

Understand expectations for personal giving, fundraising participation, and skill-based volunteering beyond board meetings.

I know what's expected beyond just showing up to meetings

Committee participation, event attendance, advocacy efforts, community representation, and strategic planning involvement.

I can leverage my network and expertise for the organization

Willing to make strategic connections, provide professional expertise, and open doors for partnerships and opportunities.

Value Proposition: Consider how your skills, network, and resources can specifically advance this organization's mission and sustainability.

Your Board Readiness Results

Review your assessment results and get personalized recommendations

Items Complete

0/17

Readiness Score

Categories Complete

0/6

Assessment Status

In Progress

Assessment Analysis

Complete the assessment above to receive personalized feedback on your board readiness and recommended next steps.

Ready to Strengthen Your Board?

Foundation Group's Assurance Program provides comprehensive nonprofit governance support

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Call (615) 361-9445 | Visit www.501c3.org
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