Effective governance means more than compliance. It requires awareness, foresight, and the courage to lead with purpose in times of uncertainty. This checklist is designed to help nonprofit boards and executives assess whether their organization is prepared to respond to today’s shifting legal, political, financial, and reputational risks.
Key Use Cases
The questions in this resource reflect core governance responsibilities but also emphasize the mindset and practices of Purpose-Driven Board Leadership. That means putting purpose before organizational preservation, understanding the organization’s role in a broader ecosystem, advancing equity even under pressure, and ensuring that decision-making includes the voices and perspectives of those most impacted by the work. For a deeper exploration of Purpose-Driven Board Leadership, see Centering Purpose in Times of Change: A Guide for Purpose-Driven Boards.
This is not a checklist for avoiding controversy or ducking difficult decisions. It is a tool for staying grounded in what matters most so boards can lead with clarity when the stakes are high.