The legislative body of a State or county, or the board of directors of a private agency, provides a framework that enables the agency to serve children and families effectively. Typically, the private agency board defines the purpose, goals, and scope of the agency program and services, approves agency policies within which staff work, establishes and maintains a sound financial structure and assures financial support, builds community understanding and support of services provided, and determines if the agency has fulfilled its purpose and responsibilities. The following resources describe the structure and purpose of governance boards and suggest best practices for board development and functioning.
Governance Standards
Council on Accreditation
Outlines best practice standards for governance of private human services organizations that address governing body and community representation, mission, community involvement and advocacy, organization of the governing body, governance reponsibilities, oversight of investments, and its executive director.
BoardSource
Seeks to increase the effectiveness of nonprofit organizations by strengthening their boards of directors.
Governance
Nonprofit Good Practice Guide
Provides information for nonprofit board members to help them accomplish their missions successfully and efficiently, and includes information on board recruitment, ethical board governance, and types of governance models.
Complete Toolkit for Boards
McNamara
Provides information on the inner workings of a board's creation, roles and responsibilities, operations, staffing, and other topics relevant to a board and its members. Also includes information on board governance, supervision, finances, marketing, and evaluation.