When Board Members Volunteer: How Nonprofit Leaders Can Set Clear Boundaries

Many nonprofit board members generously volunteer their time beyond governance responsibilities. While this support is invaluable, it can sometimes blur an important line — especially when board members begin offering guidance or direction to the Executive Director while volunteering.

So where should the line be drawn, and where are the boundaries?

The key is clarity: board members may wear multiple hats, but they should only wear one at a time.

Understanding these distinct roles helps protect healthy governance and strong staff leadership.

The Three Hats of a Nonprofit Board Member and Their Boundaries

Board members typically serve in one of three capacities. Each role comes with different responsibilities and boundaries.

🎩 The Governance Hat

This is the board member’s primary role.

The governance hat is worn during board meetings, where decisions are made collectively. This is the only setting in which the board sets organizational direction, approves strategy, and provides oversight.

Important reminders:

• All governance decisions are group decisions

• Individual board members do not direct staff

• Strategic guidance happens at the board table, not in day-to-day operations

Outside of formal meetings, board members should avoid acting independently on governance matters.

🎩 The Implementation Hat

Sometimes the board delegates specific tasks to individual members or small committees.

Examples include:

• Interviewing Executive Director candidates

• Leading a temporary working group

• Gathering information on behalf of the board

In these cases, board members are acting under explicit authority from the board and should follow agreed-upon objectives and parameters. Think of this role as functioning like staff: carrying out a defined assignment, not creating new direction.

🎩 The Volunteer Hat

Many board members also support operational activities, such as:

• Thanking donors

• Helping at events

• Promoting programs

• Assisting with outreach

When wearing the volunteer hat, board members take direction from staff — just like any other volunteer.

This distinction is critical: volunteering does not confer managerial authority. Board members should not give staff instructions or offer unsolicited guidance while helping with operations.

Why Role Clarity Matters

Blurring these roles can lead to confusion, tension, and weakened leadership. Clear boundaries:

• Protect the Executive Director’s authority

• Prevent mixed messages to staff

• Strengthen governance effectiveness

• Create a healthier working culture

When everyone understands which hat is being worn, collaboration becomes smoother and expectations stay aligned.

Final Thoughts

Board members bring tremendous value to nonprofits through governance, delegated work, and volunteering. The challenge isn’t wearing multiple hats — it’s remembering to wear only one at a time.

By clearly defining roles and reinforcing nonprofit board member boundaries, organizations empower both boards and staff to succeed together.