Ask a CSR Friend: Building a Board Service Program

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Hear from our experts in our Ask a CSR Friend monthly column.

Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, we know it takes a village to create vibrant workplaces where employees are equipped to contribute to the communities and causes they care about. So, when you need a trusted advisor to lean on, rely on Points of Light to be Your CSR Friend. Each month, our experts share their wisdom and wit to address a specific but often universal challenge related to your work as a corporate social impact practitioner.

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Dear CSR Friend,

I work for a mid-sized business with a strong employee volunteer program. We offer lots of opportunities throughout the year ranging from on-site micro-volunteering to team-based school revitalization projects. I am positive we could get more investment from the company if we align and promote our opportunities using professional development outcomes, so I’m contemplating developing a board service program. We get plenty of requests from local nonprofits interested in tapping into support from our executives, however, I would want this new program to also be available to emerging leaders. Is that even possible? And if so, how do I get started?

Signed,

Board Curious in Boise

Dear Board Curious,

I love what you’re proposing! Gone are the days when nonprofit board service was reserved for the C-suite. Sure, execs bring business savvy and connections (and maybe even deep pockets if personal donations are expected), but the real magic happens when board service becomes more inclusive. By engaging a broader group, we generate fresh perspectives, foster innovation, and give nonprofits access to a wider range of skills and networks.

Nonprofits, frankly, can’t thrive without engaged board members. They provide:

• Strategic Guidance: Helping shape long-term strategies and big decisions to ensure the nonprofit stays on track with its mission and achieving its goals.
• Financial Oversight: Board members play a key role in budgeting, financial planning, and fundraising, which keeps the nonprofit solvent.
• Leadership and Governance: Boards ensure ethical operations and legal compliance, holding leadership accountable and ensuring they have the resources and support needed to succeed.
• Accountability and Sustainability: From managing risks to ensuring transparency, board members help keep nonprofits healthy, sound and around for the long haul.
• Ambassadorship: They act as champions, advocating for the cause and raising visibility.

The reality in 2024? Nonprofits are struggling with recruitment, engagement, and diversity. The need for boards with broader representation and members with differing lived experiences and fresh perspectives is greater than ever. In fact, BoardSource’s report, Leading with Intent, tells us that nearly half (49%) of all nonprofit chief executives said that they did not have the right board members to “establish trust with the communities they serve.” Yet too many talented mid-level leaders shy away from board service because they think it’s a job for those with “Chief” in their title.

Why your company should care:

Creating a nonprofit board service program isn’t just good for nonprofits—it’s a win for your company too. When you offer board opportunities, employees sharpen leadership, governance, and strategic thinking skills, and they bring those skills back to work. It’s an untapped development tool that boosts employee engagement, strengthens community ties, and even helps with succession planning. Plus, employees who feel trusted and valued are more likely to stay—and stay motivated.

How to get started:

1. Align with CSR goals: Make sure the program complements your company’s values and culture, along with its social responsibility and professional development objectives.
2. Set clear goals and metrics: Define what success looks like—whether it’s leadership growth, nonprofit board diversity, or community impact.
3. Plan resources: Budget for training, event costs, internal and external outreach, and financial gifts tied to board roles. Will you match personal donations at the current rate or offer a pool for “first come, first served” board contributions?
4. Engage executive champions: Senior leaders can help drive awareness and support for the program and mentor participants.
5. Partner with nonprofits: Build relationships with local or national nonprofits that have vacant seats, starting with your grantees or those aligned with your company’s mission.
6. Select participants: Set your criteria and look for employees with passion and potential, not just titles. Diversity matters here.
7. Train well: Develop a curriculum on governance, finance, legal responsibilities, and fundraising. Consider real-world case studies and coaching.
8. Provide ongoing support: Offer resources and start an internal network for employees to share their board experiences and challenges. Determine how board service fits into your company’s volunteer time off policy.
9. Measure and adjust: Track progress and impact and use feedback – from employees and from nonprofits – to refine the program.
10. Celebrate successes: Highlight stories of impact to inspire others and showcase the value of board service.

By launching a nonprofit board service program, you’ll cultivate leaders, boost employee engagement, and make a real difference in the community—all while strengthening your company’s commitment to social impact.

One last note, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that nonprofit board service is a topic that is often mentioned by your peers when we convene them as part of Points of Light’s Corporate Service Council. In fact, we’ll be hosting a Council meeting on Oct. 16, 2024 on this very subject. I invite you to learn more about the Corporate Service Council and its benefits and reach out to us if you’re interested in participating.

Until next time,
Your CSR Friend

Learn more about how we can help you level up your employer’s social impact efforts and why your company should join top corporate social impact leaders and become a member of the Points of Light Corporate Service Council. Still have questions? Don’t forget you can always ask a CSR friend!