The Hudson Valley Gateway Chamber's February 2024 Nonprofit Newsletter

Strengthening Your Nonprofit Board — Investing Time, Talent, & Resources

by Justin Wingenroth

Recently, the Hudson Valley Gateway Chamber of Commerce was fortunate to have a presentation by Lucille Geraci-Miranda of Geranda Projects for our nonprofit members and the importance of their organization’s board. The focus was on enhancing the effectiveness of nonprofit boards through strategic structuring and active engagement. In case you missed it, here are some key points:

• Strategic Focus of the Board: Lucille Geraci-Miranda emphasized the importance of boards maintaining a strategic focus, steering clear of becoming mired in day-to-day operational tasks or tactical issues. By focusing on overarching goals and objectives, boards can provide effective guidance and direction for the organization as a whole.
• Composition of Successful Boards: The presentation highlighted the significance of assembling a board with diverse skill sets that complement the organization's needs. Having members with a broad range of expertise, including areas such as finance, legal affairs, marketing, and fundraising, can greatly benefit the organization by providing a well-rounded perspective on various matters.
• Active Engagement of Board Members: Board members were encouraged to make themselves available to executive directors, offering advice, guidance, and support when needed. Their involvement in fundraising and development efforts was stressed as crucial, particularly in effectively communicating the organization's story and cultivating potential donors.
• Process for Identifying and Onboarding New Members: Establishing clear processes for identifying and integrating new board members was highlighted as essential for maintaining a strong and effective board. This includes actively seeking out individuals whose skills and experience align with the organization's needs, as well as providing comprehensive onboarding to ensure new members are fully equipped to contribute effectively.
• Expectations of Board Members: Lucille Geraci-Miranda outlined several key expectations for board members, including their active participation in supporting events, cultivating relationships with donors, identifying potential funding sources, and expressing gratitude to donors for their support. By fulfilling these expectations, board members can play a significant role in advancing the organization's mission and securing its long-term sustainability.
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Overall, the presentation emphasized the critical role that nonprofit boards play in the success of their organizations and provided practical guidance on how boards can strengthen their impact through strategic structuring and active engagement.

Justin Wingenroth is a member of the Chamber's Nonprofit Committee and is Owner/Director of The Dance Conservatory. Read more about his services at: www.thedanceconservatory.info

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Do you have expertise to share with other nonprofits? Ask us about writing an educational article for this newsletter!

Please contact Lynn Amos with your ideas at lynn@fynelyne.com.

To request that your nonprofit be featured in this newsletter, please contact Lynn Amos at lynn@fynelyne.com.

Would you like to host an event for your nonprofit colleagues at your facility?

Please contact please contact Lucille Geraci-Miranda at lucille@gerandaprojects.com.



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The Nonprofit Committee serves as a resource for ongoing professional development and as a forum for sharing best practices. The Committee provides meaningful opportunities for nonprofit staff, managers and board members to come together to collaborate.

Committee Chairperson

Lucille Geraci-Miranda

Geranda Projects

Committee Members

Lynn Amos, Fyne Lyne Ventures

Mary F. Foster, HVH2O and The Field Library

Chereese Jervis-Hill, Events To Remember

Tim Warn, Civic Member

Justin Wingenroth, The Dance Conservatory