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33 Principles for Good Governance and Ethical Practice

I love it when someone makes my life easier! In 2007, the Independent Sector created 33 Principles for Good Governance and Ethical Practice as part of its efforts to strengthen good practices for the nonprofit sector. I use the principles as guidelines for the board development and strategic planning assistance we provide to our clients. Now The Independent Sector has teamed up with BoardSource and developed a great workbook based on the principles, The Principles Workbook: Steering Your Board Toward Good Governance and Ethical Practice.

The workbook is a very practical tool, with well-developed sample worksheets that are visually appealing. Each principle has good background information, solid definitions, and focused worksheets. There is sound guidance for using the workbook. The principles are divided into four sections; legal compliance and public disclosure, effective governance, strong financial management, and responsible fund-raising.

Most of the language and layout is closely aligned with strategic planning tools that have become more commonplace. The worksheet action steps sync up nicely with strategic planning and reporting. It also aligns with the policy questions asked as part of the revised Form 990. If you’ve followed the principles, you’ll be well-versed in the 990 governance questions.

Not every principle and every worksheet applies to every nonprofit organization, but the workbook is substantive and a wonderful resource. You can download a free copy from the Independent Sector’s website at www.independentsector.org. Happy reading! Mine is a little dog-eared already.

Debra Box
Executive Director
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