Why Board Engagement is the Heartbeat of Nonprofits

Ask anyone what makes a nonprofit succeed, and you’ll hear about staff, volunteers, or the mission. But the real backbone? The board of directors. Board service is invaluable. In fact, in many ways, the success of a nonprofit rises and falls on the strength and engagement of its board.

Why Engagement Matters

Board leadership isn’t just about showing up to a meeting once a month–it’s about active participation. That means connecting regularly with the organization’s leader, rolling up your sleeves to join committees, and showing up and engaging fully at every board meeting.  In challenging times, whether it’s a funding crisis, shifting community needs, or questions of nonprofit leadership, board engagement matters more than ever. “We know burnout is high. We know our leaders are tired,” said Kelley Kuhn, president and CEO of the Michigan Nonprofit Association (MNA). “They're dealing with a lot of uncertainty at this moment, and so we really need to ensure that board leadership is engaging with the organization through its leader—through active participation in committees and active participation in meetings.” A strong, present, and committed board can help a nonprofit weather various storms and come out stronger in the end.

Board Members Are Volunteers, First and Foremost

It’s worth pointing out that board members aren’t paid for their service. These are people who volunteer their time because they care deeply about and support the mission. It isn’t a job where they clock in and out. It’s a calling. What keeps them going is simple: passion and a true belief in the mission. That passion is what makes board service such a powerful tool. And the impact on community has ripple effects far beyond the board meeting room. 

Evangelists for the Mission

Board members don’t just help steer the ship--they also serve as some of the most effective evangelists for the work. Through their networks, their voices, and their lived commitment, they spread the word about why the mission matters. In fact, nonprofits wouldn’t exist without boards-- the board establishes the nonprofit in the first place and sustains it through governance, vision, and advocacy.

A Vital Role in a Vital Sector

The nonprofit sector as a whole doesn’t exist without board members. They are needed to engage, to act, and to lead. Their service is a reminder that at the core of this sector are people who care enough to give their time, their voice, and their expertise—without expectation of anything in return. And that’s what makes this kind of leadership so inspiring.

Call to Action: Your Turn to Step Up

If you’ve ever thought about joining a board, volunteering your time, or lending your skills to a cause you care about, now is the time. In challenging times such as right now, local nonprofits need engaged, passionate leaders more than ever.

So, step up and get involved. “If you are thinking about getting on a board, go get on a board,” Kuhn said. “If you’re on a board, stay engaged and look for leadership opportunities within the board.”

At MNA, we’re especially grateful for our own board members who give their time, energy and passion to keep us moving forward. They’re the reason we thrive, and the reason we can keep serving nonprofits across Michigan.