From year to year, organizations often learn and grow from their fundraising efforts. Leaders come up with new strategies based on what worked and what didn’t work the previous year. Ideally, the same leaders would be in place for many years, but the truth is that often leadership changes. Board members and chairpersons cycle off or leave due to other obligations, requiring the organization to find a replacement. Whether this happens between fundraisers or in the middle of fundraising season, it’s important to maintain the hard-won relationships with donors and the greater community.
By taking a few precautionary measures, organizations can enjoy a smooth transition no matter which board member leaves. Once an organization is aware a change will be taking place, leaders should immediately begin planning to ensure the transition will progress as seamlessly as possible.
COMMUNICATE
One of the biggest complaints organizations have following a change in leadership is that donors, members, and other interested parties weren’t kept fully informed throughout the process. This can be especially harmful for people who felt a loyalty to the person who recently exited. Longtime loyal supporters may find the change unsettling, especially if the exiting board member was an integral part of directing the organization.
The best thing a nonprofit can do to ease these issues is to communicate. As soon as possible after the change is decided, make a public announcement thanking the person for the time spent on the board and expressing optimism for the future of the organization. Also state clearly who will be handling that person’s role in the interim to let your members and donors know that there will be no disruption in services provided.
REASSIGN TASKS
As soon as possible following the news that a board member will be leaving, you should come up with a plan to have that person’s role handled by others. If the person leaving did a large portion of the responsibility, parse different areas of the person’s work out to other board members until a replacement can be found. Make a list of priorities and accept the fact that less important duties may need to be set aside until you can find a suitable replacement.
Finding a replacement board member can be difficult, especially if you’re in the middle of your fundraiser. Unless your organization already has someone in mind, ask members to recommend candidates for the position and look closely among your membership and supporters for someone who would be a passionate advocate for your fundraising efforts. Organizations like United Way sometimes have training programs for nonprofit leaders. They may be able to recommend a great person to take over the role if you can’t find a good candidate within your existing support system.
The sudden loss of a board member or chairperson can be difficult for an organization’s fundraising efforts. But with some careful planning and proactive outreach to your supporters and members, you can manage the transition smoothly, continuing toward your fundraising goals without delay. While you often can’t plan for a board member to leave, keep in mind that it’s always a possibility and consistently look around for people who would make great board members.
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of all kinds, Evergreen Industries understands how
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ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED: JULY 11, 2022
