Give or Get Out

A strong give-or-get policy aligns a nonprofit board’s heart, strategy, and impact, ensuring that its leaders are not just decision-makers but active mission champions. When board members give or fundraise, they should lead with their HEARTs by demonstrating a deep personal commitment to the cause.

A give-or-get policy is the foundation of a targeted fundraising STRATEGY and it builds a culture of shared responsibility, where every board member plays a role in securing financial resources.

The IMPACT is clear: Nonprofits with fully engaged boards are better positioned to expand programs, serve more people, and sustain their work long-term. By making financial commitment a core expectation, a give-or-get policy transforms board leadership into a powerful force for that leads by example and inspires confidence and builds trust within and outside the board. Here some concrete tips to get started on a give or get policy for your board:

1. Start with a Conversation: Before implementing a policy, engage the board in discussions about why financial commitment matters.

• Example: At a board retreat, present data showing how board giving impacts fundraising success and grant eligibility.

2. Define the Minimum Expectation: Set a clear and achievable baseline amount for all board members.

• Example: “Each board member is expected to contribute or raise at least $2,500 annually through personal giving, fundraising, or sponsorships.”

3. Offer Flexibility in Meeting the Obligation: Allow board members to meet their give-or-get goal in different ways. Options May Include:

• Personal donations

• Corporate sponsorships

• Peer-to-peer fundraising

• Hosting donor events

• Securing in-kind gifts (with clear value assigned)

4. Put It in Writing: Document the policy in board agreements and onboarding materials.

• Example: Include a simple statement in the board commitment form: "I understand that part of my role as a board member is to provide financial support through a personal gift or fundraising efforts to help sustain the organization."

5. Lead by Example: Ensure the board chair and leadership are fully committed to the policy.

• Example: The board chair can kick off the year by publicly making their gift or sharing their fundraising strategy.

6. Track and Report Progress: Regularly update the board on how they are meeting their collective giving goal.

• Example: Use a Board Giving Dashboard to show participation rates (without shaming individuals).

7. Celebrate and Support Board Fundraising: Recognize board members who meet or exceed their goal and provide tools to help others succeed.

• Example: Have board members share stories of success at board meeting.

8. Review and Adjust Annually: Evaluate the policy’s effectiveness and adjust as needed.

• Example: Send an anonymous board survey asking:

  • Was the expectation reasonable?

  • What barriers did you face in meeting the goal?

  • What support would help in the future?

Board complexities exist, but this policy makes the responsibilities of board members clear and actionable. This will build transparent trust with those who are committed to your cause. Your nonprofit will be served well by having a clear way for your leadership to get involved and give back.

Do not shy away because some board members don’t like it. Lean into those who “get it” and want to see your mission thrive.