Board Diversity: More than Simply “the right thing to do”
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Board Diversity: More than Simply “the right thing to do”

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January 9, 2017

Written by Joel Peterson, Th.D​

Diversity on nonprofit boards is not just the right thing to do, it is simply the best way to solve problems. It is not just about rights and equal access, it’s about the positive effect on your bottom line. The evidence speaks for itself: countless boards are now understanding that by embracing diversity they gain access to new markets of donors and new partners for collaboration. With a diverse board, a nonprofit will have an assortment of experiences, expertise, and perspectives that will allow it to plan for the future, manage risk, and make prudent decisions. Most importantly, they will be able to apply the correct amount of sensitivity to cultural differences and be in touch with the community needs.  

However, diversity for diversity sake can do more harm than good.  As we try and diversify our boards, we must select quality individuals with expertise who happen to be different than the majority of current board members. 

Here are four reasons why board diversity is essential:

  1. When a board reflects the diversity of the community it serves, nonprofits will be better able to access resources in the community through connections with potential donors and collaborative partners.
  2. A diverse board improves a nonprofit’s ability to respond to cultural demands that affect the environment for both employees and the people they serve. 
  3. Diversity of thought: when a nonprofit is facing a major decision, diverse perspectives increase the probability of reaching the best solution.
  4. Boards that are not diverse risk becoming stagnant. If diversity of thought is not present, the chance of being innovative will be absent.

This is why Project LEAD is so important to our community.  Project LEAD is a six-week board training that takes well-qualified leaders in our communities and trains them on what it takes to become an effective board member.  Learn more and sign up for the 2017 class.

Albert Einstein said, “You cannot solve a problem with the same mind that created it. “ Therefore, let us bring together a collection of thoughts, experiences, expertise, and perspective to make our community a better place to live. 

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