Stop Winging It. Start Governing Well.
The no-nonsense, plain-english guide to nonprofit board service… for new members, board chairs, and executive leaders.
You didn't get a manual when you joined the board. You got a mission you believe in, a binder full of old minutes, and a vague sense that you're supposed to know what a "fiduciary duty" is.
Meanwhile, you're expected to:
Read financial statements you were never taught to read
Recruit board members without burning out your network
Run meetings that don't devolve into the same three people talking
Fundraise without feeling like you're always asking for money
Handle conflict, low engagement, and the founder who won't let go
Nonprofit Boards for Dummies is the book that finally treats board service like the skill it is …one anyone can learn.
Whats Inside?
Everything You Need to Go From "Winging It" to "Actually Good at This"
Governance, demystified 9 What a board is legally and practically responsible for, explained in plain English
Meetings that don't waste anyone's time - Agendas, minutes, and decision-making that actually move things forward
Money matters, made clear - How to read a budget, a 990, and a financial statement without your eyes glazing over
Recruiting and retaining great board members - Build a board that reflects your mission
Fundraising without the ick - Your role in development, and how to do it in a way that feels natural
Founder transitions & tough conversations - Handling underperformance, conflict, and the hardest board moments with confidence
Navigating Crisis - Working through the hardest moments in your organizations history, from major risks to executive turnover.
Who’s this for?
Whether You're New to the Table or You've Been There for Years
New board members who want to contribute from day one.
Board chairs and officers looking for a shared playbook the whole board can use.
Executive directors who want a board that's a true partner, not a rubber stamp or a roadblock.
Anyone starting a nonprofit who needs to build a board from scratch.