Board members often want to help their non-profit in any way they can. Contributing to its effectiveness around the board table is essential but one’s role here can seem remote from the direct work of the organization. Indeed, governance work for board members can seem intangible in terms of how exactly it adds value. Perhaps one should volunteer in the non-profit’s programs or services. Surely it would also be a support to staff.
Despite such good intentions, when board members focus their attention on, or even step into operational matters, roles can easily be confused and frequently are.