Joining a nonprofit board is more than attending meetings or lending your name. You are a key part of the organization’s success. Your network, influence, and engagement directly impact its ability to grow and serve its mission.
The good news? You don’t need to become a professional fundraiser. But you do need to be an active champion for the cause.
Your Role: Yes, More Than a Title
When you take a seat on a nonprofit board, you are stepping into personal and financial responsibility for the organization. Many board members don’t realize this, but it’s true. If something goes wrong financially, your name is on the line.
This might sound intimidating, but on the flip side: it also means you have a real opportunity to make an impact. The organization’s mission should be motivating in of itself, if it isn’t, let your pockets and legal responsibilities do the trick.
Our general rule: The nonprofit you serve should be the organization you give the most to: both in time and in treasure.
Fundraising is More Than Asking for Money, no really!
Fundraising is about relationship-building, storytelling, and making people feel part of something bigger than themselves. That’s when true giving (with big dollar signs) and connection prevails.
Some of our favorite ways of relationship building that are easy for boardmembers:
- Thank donors and make them feel valued.
- Share your “Why I Give” story in an authentic way.
- Introduce friends, colleagues, or companies to the nonprofit.
- Open doors and make connections that the staff can follow up on.
- Cheerlead on social media, at events, or in casual conversations.
Think of yourself as an ambassador, not a salesperson. You are helping people see why the mission matters and how they can be part of it.
Create Your Board Member Starter-Pack
To be a high-impact board member, keep these tools in your back pocket:
- Elevator Pitch — A 30-second explanation of why this cause matters to you.
- Outreach Templates — Simple emails or messages to introduce contacts to the organization.
- Talking Points Cheat Sheet — Be ready for “What does this nonprofit actually do?” or “Why should I give?”
- Your Personal “Why I Give” Story — This is more persuasive than any fundraising script.
Know What’s Expected of You (No Surprises, Please)
Board members often get blindsided by the expectations of fundraising. That’s a problem. That’s why Nonprofits and Board member relationships should always have:
- A Board Member Job Description that spells out your role.
- A Board Agreement with clear give/get expectations.
- A Development Committee on the board to guide fundraising efforts.
If any organization’s board doesn’t have a development committee, fundraising will never be a priority. Period.
Also, forget the old model of setting rigid individual fundraising quotas. The better approach is to set a group fundraising goal and let board members decide how they can best contribute. Some might give a major gift. Others might bring in sponsorships or introduce new donors. It all counts.
The Board’s Role in Driving Success
You are not an accessory to the nonprofit’s success — you are essential. Boards that stay engaged, support fundraising, and celebrate wins are the ones that help organizations thrive.
If your board doesn’t have clear expectations, a development committee, or a fundraising culture, that’s the first thing to fix. Fundraising is not an “extra”. It’s part of board governance.
Let’s Get Your Board Fundraising-Ready
If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry. Most boards need training to feel confident in their fundraising role. That’s where Strategy Spark comes in. We provide practical tools and coaching to align your board’s efforts with your nonprofit’s fundraising goals.