• We have written policies that apply specifically to board members.
• We have a policy on conflict of interest for board members.
• We have a code of conduct which outlines appropriate behaviour for board members.
• We have a process for handling the discipline and removal of a board member.
• We have a process for evaluating the performance of the board and its committees.
• All board members are provided with appropriate resources and materials to do their job.
• We have systems for ensuring that board members are provided with basic training and orientation in group process and board development.
• We have a system for selecting/electing the executive officers of the board (i.e., Chair, Secretary, Treasurer).
• We have clearly defined our governing style or model.
• The conduct of meetings is clearly outlined.
• We need to:
  
  

Act locally! Talk to members from other boards in your community (literacy agencies and others) who have been through the process of developing policies. Find out about their experiences and learn from their lessons. There may be an expert in board development issues right in your community. Invite experienced board members to speak to your board or lead workshops. If possible, contact your nearest Volunteer Bureau, United Way or social/community development agency.

Check out top-notch resources from Ontario! Herb Perry has written some concise and useful books which may help you understand how boards function. Two of these are Call to Order: Meeting Rules and Procedures for Non-Profit Organizations (1989), and The Board: A Winning Team (1990). Both are available from Big Bay Publishing Inc. or may be borrowed from the Alpha Plus Centre (see bibliography).

Support your board! See Appendix A3.4 at the end of this section for suggestions on developing a Board Development Handbook.