Beyond oversight, the role of a nonprofit board includes championing the cause, inspiring the community, and securing and mobilizing resources. A board unified by a compelling vision will more likely fulfill these roles with genuine passion.

Implementing a Framework for Visionary Boards

At Arthur Alley, we use a framework called the Five W’s. Our colleague Chuck Nutt developed this evaluation tool. Leaders aiming to build an engaged board can use the strategic framework of the Five W’s: Want To, Work, Wisdom, Wealth, and Wallop to assess their current members and to create a strategy for future recruitment. Each component is crucial for developing a board that not only understands the vision but is actively involved in its realization.

The Five W's:

1. Want To: True engagement starts with desire. Board members should be deeply committed to the organization's vision, actively participating in meetings and initiatives with enthusiasm that reflects a mission-driven heart. Remember that “want to” can change over time, so frequently assessing the desire to serve is essential. “Want to” is first because the rest doesn’t matter without it.
2. Work: Board members should use their skills and networks to further the organization’s goals, working hard in a manner that echoes Proverbs 16:3 (AMP) “Commit your actions to the Lord, and your plans will succeed.” If you’re doing specialized work, engage specialists on your board. What specialized skillset should your board members have?
3. Wisdom: Wise board members understand complex issues and provide insightful guidance that aligns with the organization's objectives and Christian ethics. As leaders, be transparent about what you do not know and ask questions. This invites others to engage and share their wisdom to strengthen your organization.
4. Wealth: While financial contribution is vital, wealth in this context also pertains to the richness of spirit, generosity, and resourcefulness. Board members should be willing to invest not only their treasures but also their time and talents, exemplifying the principle of cheerful giving (2 Cor. 9:7). Individuals who rate highly in wealth will tell their story, spreading enthusiasm and encouraging others in their network to give generously.
5. Wallop: This is about using personal and professional influence to benefit the organization. A board member’s ability to “make things happen” can be a game-changer and open doors for new partnerships, resources, and community support. Who do you need to know in your community? Who do you need to invite into a deeper level of support? A board member with wallop should be engaged to bring those others into the fold.

Communicating Vision to Inspire Engagement

It is crucial to articulate the vision in a way that spiritually connects with both the board and the broader community. Leaders should regularly share how the organization's efforts are fulfilling this vision, keeping everyone aligned and motivated.

Encourage board members to embrace and develop their own visions within God’s larger plan. This can lead to deeper engagement and more impactful actions.

Propel a Divine Mission Forward

A fully engaged board is critical for any Christian nonprofit...

A fully engaged board is critical for any Christian nonprofit, transforming vision into significant reality. By adopting the Five W’s framework, leaders can form a board that supports and actively propels the organization's divine mission forward. Such boards meets strategic needs with a spirit of service that inspires everyone to contribute to mission impact.

As we align with God’s vision for our lives and missions, let’s develop boards that mirror his wisdom, generosity, and love. Such boards will truly move missions forward.

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Steve Waiksnoris is a Partner and Vice President at Arthur Alley, a consulting firm specializing in Fundraising, Mission Development, and Search Solutions for nonprofits. He has more than 20 years of development experience, working with organizations and ministries of all sizes. Are you interested in learning more about the 5 W’s or other board assessment tools? Download your complimentary Board Evaluation Toolkit from Arthur Alley.

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