The board meeting is called to order. After announcements, directors get down to the business of advancing the organization's mission. Or do they?
The board is responsible for advancing the mission even through the many diversions, including reports, updates and concerns about operations. Soon somebody asks about lunch. Then a few directors apologize for leaving early. None of this sounds like a meeting focused on its mission.
IRS on mission statements
The IRS designates exempt status based on the submission of a statement of purpose. To emphasize the mission, the agency relocated it on the front page of Form 990, the annual information return.
In a white paper, the IRS wrote that nonprofit organizations should regularly review the organization's mission. A clearly articulated mission, adopted by the board of directors, serves to explain and popularize the purpose and guide its work. It addresses why the organization exists, what it hopes to accomplish, and what activities it will undertake, where and for whom.
A mission moment
The board chair reminds directors of the mission as the meeting is called to order. Then he or she provides examples of how the organization's work has resulted in positive outcomes. For instance, if the board supports "access to health care," provide examples of how things have improved.
A more powerful mission moment is to invite a testimonial from a benefactor or member who has been helped by the organization.
Avoid mission creep
Mission creep is a result of losing focus and drifting away from purpose. The mission should frame nearly every discussion at board meetings.
There are several ways to keep it in front of the board. Display the statement on the conference room wall and include it at the bottom of meeting agendas. Some meetings are started by directors reciting the mission. When name tent cards are used, one side should display the director's name and the other side (facing the director) should include the mission.
To check whether board meetings are mission centered, read a recent set of minutes. How many words from the mission appear in the minutes? Too often minutes simply show the board convened, listened to reports and adjourned.
Be resourceful in promoting the purpose statement. The work of the board will be more powerful when it is framed by the mission.
