Nonprofits Are Messy: Lessons in Leadership | Fundraising | Board Development | Communications Ep 87: True Confessions of a Five Star Board Chair (with Daryl Messinger)
Jun 15, 2019
Daryl Messinger, seasoned nonprofit leader who chaired the North American Board of the Union for Reform Judaism, discusses transforming governance and philanthropy. She describes shifting a large board to a culture of giving. She explains practical tactics for board fundraisers, partnering with senior leadership, delegation struggles, and succession planning.
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Large Representative Board Plus a Governing Oversight Committee
- The URJ uses a nearly 200-person representative board plus a 25-person oversight committee that acts as the governing body.
- Daryl filled big-board seats for movement diversity while delegating fiduciary duties to the smaller oversight committee.
Teach The Board To Play Philanthropy
- Change culture by teaching board members to play the 'philanthropy sport' through introductions, thank-yous, and personal giving.
- Emphasize that fundraising doesn't require great wealth but does demand passion and time.
Set Clear Giving Expectations For Leaders
- Raise giving expectations and define clear minimums so leadership shows philanthropic leadership to major funders.
- Daryl moved board non-givers from ~15–20% to under 5% and targeted $5,000+ annual gifts for many members.