The director must be knowledgeable in how to several key areas of management including
how to manage a nonprofit organization
how to manage a Board of Directors
how to manage staff and volunteers
plus managing the office and relationships within and outside of the organization, stakeholders, grants, and stopping a bullet with your teeth.
The success of your Main Street district revitalization effort depends largely on the board of director’s ability to identify and mobilize resources, build volunteer support, develop new leadership, and maintain clear focus on the district’s needs and opportunities. The Board Member's Handbook is a must-read for programs looking to understand the process of running a board, gaining public and private support, recruiting strategic members, and developing an annual work plan.
Dig deeper into the four points and get certified by completing the professional certification program managed by the Main Street American Institute.
The professional field of downtown and commercial district management requires a very distinct set of skills and expertise. Today’s professionals must be subject matter experts, with skills and knowledge directly relevant to the multitude of challenges confronting 21st century commercial districts. They must also be outstanding leaders, with the ability to engage their community, build consensus among diverse stakeholders, and manage complex revitalization projects.
The Main Street America Institute (MSAI) supports professionals in realizing these roles through a comprehensive set of learning opportunities that provide the tools and strategies needed to lead results-oriented revitalization efforts.
Board Source is the go-to resource for nonprofit boards and the recognized leader in the field of nonprofit governance. They are the guru on board governance and offer guides, tools, templates, and infographics, many of which are free, but membership gains you access to their entire library. There are tools for assessing board readiness, The Board-Staff Partnership, Roles & Responsibilities, Oversight & Accountability, Strategy & Planning, Fundraising, Advocacy & Ambassadorship, Structure, Committees, & Meetings, Board Composition & Recruitment, Orientation & Education, Culture & Dynamics, Executive Transition, Executive Evaluation & Compensation, and so much more.
ASAE is the essential organization for association leadership. While it focuses on the organization as well, it specializes in training, resources, workshops/conferences and much more for the CEO of the nonprofit, rather than the Board of Directors. It confers the CAE certification.
The National Council of Nonprofits is a trusted resource and proven advocate for America’s charitable nonprofits. Working with and through the nation’s largest network of nonprofits--with 25,000-plus organizational members--they identify emerging trends, share proven practices, and promote solutions that benefit charitable nonprofits and the communities they serve.
The FL Nonprofit Alliance offers membership, advocacy at the state level, resources and data on Florida nonprofits. They offer a great resource guide for board management. They are a member of the National Council of Nonprofits.