The ability to influence board policy with regard to a program's goals and objectives is directly affected by the program's visibility to the umbrella organization's board of directors. Directors A board of directors allows an organization the opportunity to receive the insight and the service of a group of individuals who are not directly employed by the program. Board members may be highly qualified and talented individuals who are volunteering their time to the organization because of a special interest in its services. Ideas and programs being examined by the staff can be presented to the board for discussion. Board members are a source of cost-free creative energy and public relations for the organization.
Many people wonder why organizations are structured to include boards.
The answers are both practical and legal. A board provides one part of a system of checks and balances. An organization announces its intention to be overseen by an independent body when it incorporates. The board is responsible for developing policy and providing direction to the executive director. As the governing body, the board ensures that the organization is acting within the parameters set by the articles of incorporation and the bylaws.