Five, however, is seen as the minimum required for adequate governance. As a rule, the full board should meet to discuss and ratify the organization's decisions and actions at least twice a year. If, however, the organization has an executive committee of at least five voting members, then three meetings of the executive committee, evenly spaced, with a majority in attendance, can substitute for one of the two board meetings. Costs related to a board member's participation could include such items as travel and day care arrangements. Situations where board members derive financial benefits from board service should be avoided.
Organizations vary widely in their ability to demonstrate pluralism and diversity.
Every organization should establish a policy, consistent with its mission statement, that fosters such inclusiveness. An affirmative action program is an example of fulfilling this requirement. The organization's purpose, approved by the board, should be formally and specifically stated. The formal or abridged statement of purpose should appear with some frequency in organization publications and presentations. The organization's activities should be consistent with its statement of purpose.