The development of a mission statement is an ideal board development exercise, generating valuable discussion. Here are two ways to approach the issue:

i) Ask each board member what they understand the organization’s mission to be. Brainstorm all responses then integrate the information to begin drafting your statement. When you have a final draft, ask everyone to consider if the mission statement has expressed:

• what your agency does
• who is serves.

Or

ii) Ask each board member to bring an anonymous draft of a proposed mission statement. Gather all drafts and provide each member with copies. In large or small group discussions, look for common themes and begin to synthesize your ideal statement.

For Reference

The mission statement has implications for policy development. You may want to have policies about the development and maintenance of a valid mission statement, such as these sample policies.

Samples

Sample Statement

The board approves a mission statement for the organization, to be reviewed once a year.

Sample Procedure

Procedures might include:

• The board will review and approve any proposed changes to the mission statement.These must be ratified at the next annual general meeting.
• The organization publicizes its mission statement in the community by including it on all pamphlets, posters and letterhead.
• The mission statement will be reviewed by the By-law/ Policy Review Committee as part of its annual planning and review cycle.