What Defines a Legendary Nonprofit Board? Is Your Board on Board?

Have you ever considered what it takes for a nonprofit board to be truly legendary? Whether it’s expanding a program or launching a major capital campaign, nonprofit organizations face unique challenges that require thoughtful guidance. But what sets apart a board that successfully navigates these changes? More importantly, does the organization you care about have a board that could be considered legendary?

When an organization stands on the brink of transformation, evaluating its readiness is crucial. While many believe boards should check off a tactical list of “must-haves,” I would argue that a board’s behavior shouldn’t need to be adapted. Instead, it should already embody the qualities of what I affectionately call a Legendary Board.

First and foremost, it’s about passion. Many organizations aim to build a board with diverse professional skills—the doctor, the lawyer, the [insert profession here]. Yet, having board members who are genuinely passionate about the cause often proves more valuable than an array of professional titles. Why? A passionate board member, no matter their profession, will rise to any challenge, find creative solutions, and fill skill gaps along the way.

Another distinguishing feature of a Legendary Board is its commitment to both present and future success. These exceptional board members are the keepers of the organization’s vision and the dreamers of its possibilities. They refuse to accept the status quo.
Simply put, Legendary Board members carry an unwritten code of conduct: they keep the organization’s mission front and center—150 percent of the time.

Here are some practices that Legendary Boards regularly follow to keep their organizations thriving:

• Lead with organizational values: They consistently embody and advocate for the organization’s core principles.
• Monitor and assess key success indicators: They provide high-level oversight without getting lost in operational details. They trust the leadership.
• Ensure financial health: They prioritize sustainable funding to support ongoing operations and future growth.
• Build networks and foster connections: They view outreach and relationship-building as natural extensions of their role.
• Focus on continuous improvement: Legendary boards are always planning for greater impact and expanding service reach.
• Commit to accountability: They engage in both individual and collective performance evaluations and actively recruit new Legendary members.

A quality often seen in high-performing organizations is the gratitude expressed by Legendary Board members. They generously acknowledge and thank staff, volunteers, and program participants, understanding that nonprofit work is challenging and that kindness from board members boosts morale.

These leaders also honor the organization’s history, recognizing that they stand on the shoulders of those who came before them. They seek wisdom from past leaders and approach their roles with humility, understanding that true authority transcends mere power.

Lastly, Legendary Boards are united in their commitment to financial support. A board is only as strong as its least engaged member. If board members must be constantly reminded to support the organization financially, the board likely hasn’t reached Legendary status. Conversely, boards that actively champion an organization’s financial health share in its successes and joys.

Legendary leaders also find joy in their work. Being a link in the chain of positive impact brings a unique sense of fulfillment and unity. There is a certain magic to being part of a collective effort for the common good—and Legendary Boards know how to make it happen.