New Life Resource Center Board Information

 Board members typically are not chosen for their skill at "board membering," but rather other areas of expertise, connection, or ministry they bring to the table. This means board members, especially new ones, know there are essential things they must do, but won't necessarily know what they are or how best to do them. One of the most common questions we hear from board members is, “What do I do? What does my role encompass?”

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If you're a new or prospective board member asking this question, one of the best places to find the answer is the center’s bylaws and Board Policy Manual. Here you will find direction that will guide you towards understanding your role as a board member along with some key board responsibilities, including officer duties, committee job descriptions, as well as your spiritual, ethical, and fiduciary responsibilities. Taking a good long look at the center’s mission and vision statements and Organization Chart are also excellent steps towards clarifying, knowing, and fulfilling board roles and responsibilities.

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Each of these essential areas includes a whole host of specific information. Take finances for example. A key aspect of pregnancy & family center board work is having a clear understanding of the financial status and progress of the organization's funding and donor development. While much of the responsibility falls on those on the Finance Committee and the Board Treasurer, all board members should know how to speak into general financial oversight, fundraising, financial planning, and budgeting. Additionally, board members should have a working understanding of financial reports, policies and procedures for banking, book keeping and record keeping and the control of fixed assets and stock. This information often isn’t intuitive however, so it is paramount that board members ask clarifying questions and work towards understanding such matters.  

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Often the most important “essential” for a pregnancy center board member is clear and effective communication. Board members are presented with many opportunities that call for clear communication - for example, you may likely be asked to share your passion for the work at a church or community group, provide clear notes following a committee meeting, or simply express your thoughts and ideas in regular Board meetings. An often overlooked aspect of communication, however, is learning to hear others first. Listening to your fellow board members with open hearts and minds, and pursuing unity even in heated discussions and dissent are essential to the health of the organization you love and serve.  

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If you're thinking, "I get what we're supposed to do, but how does my board get there?" you're not alone.  There can be a disconnect between knowing what these essentials are and being able to effectively put them into practice in specific situations. As a new board member you will be asked to complete online training offered to provide background to board membership for pregnancy and family centers. The modules are short and easy to complete. We ask that they be completed within the first 60 days of joining the board. They can be accessed from any location via the internet and can be accessed 24/7 any day.