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New England Society of Association Executives

Featured Stories

By Bill Graham

 

The organization has been valued by members for decades, but the past few years, they have been operating on autopilot. With a member retention rate of 70 percent, and events feeling more revenue-driven than member-focused, they have undeniable room to improve.

 

It had been years since they seriously asked, “What do members want, need or appreciate? Why do members leave? Why do they stay?”

 

All the committees (like Audit and Investment) were focused inward (internally), directing their efforts to operations.

 

Their mission statement was 50 words long and 15 years old.  Most board members struggled to articulate the purpose for their existence.

 

Goals had been set long ago. They were ambiguous, non-descript and hard to follow. No wonder the board never referenced the mission and goals.

 

Visit https://www.nesae.org/resource/resmgr/newsletters/Strategic_Planning_in_4_Hour.pdf to view the full article online.

 

By Bob Harris, CAE

 

“What could go wrong? I’m just a volunteer on a board of directors.”

 

It’s better to ask about risks and protections before accepting a nomination to serve.   Directors are trustees of the corporation. They are responsible for governance and the well-being of the organization.

 

Although organizations are characterized as “nonprofit” and directors are “volunteers,” liabilities can arise. Consider Murphy’s Law: “If anything can go wrong, it will.” 

 

Liability could result from discrimination, copyright violation, harassment, embezzlement or antitrust violations, for instance.  

 

Every organization faces risks. Nonprofit organizations may have some added risks, for example public record requests, election procedures, committee authority and member demands.

 

Consider these five methods to afford board protection. Every organization is unique. Read the governing documents and understand applicable laws. Be sure to rely on legal, accounting and insurance counsel.

 

Visit https://www.naylornetwork.com/nese-nwl/articles/index.asp?aid=560588&issueID=66270 to view the full article online.

 
Woodstock Inn & Resort
The Devens Conference Center
 
Southbridge Hotel and Conference Center
Boxboro Regency Hotel & Conference Center
Member News
The Massachusetts Assisted Living Association (Mass-ALA) is delighted to announce the appointment of Laurie Cashman as its Director of Education. Cashman has built her career around serving the older adult population in various capacities. In her new role, Cashman will be responsible for overall educational initiatives and programming for Mass-ALA and its membership, including producing various educational programs, seminars, trainings, the annual conference and trade show, and creating educational resources for members.

Visit https://www.naylornetwork.com/nese-nwl/articles/index.asp?aid=560577&issueID=66270 to view the full article online.

 
NE/SAE News
 
 
The Essex - Vermont's Culinary Resort & Spa
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