The Board of Directors’ responsibilities include the following:

• Ensure the organization has a clear, succinct written mission statement that expresses its core values and reason for being.
• Engage in regular strategic planning as an integral part of effective leadership and management.
• Provide ongoing oversight, including executive leadership, board self-assessment, and periodic review of current policies and code of ethics.
• Formulate a fund-raising strategy, including a case statement that expresses the rationale for financial support.
• Expect each board member to make an annual contribution to the organization according to his or her means, and take an active role in raising money.
• Approve and monitor the annual operating budget.
• Review regular financial reports from staff. Require an annual audit by an independent accountant.
• Be active community ambassadors, promoting the organization's mission, service, and achievements as well as bringing community perspectives to the attention of the board and staff.
• Ensure that the organization has a marketing and public relations strategy to support outreach.
• Seek out key leaders in business, government, education, and the media to inform them about the organization.