As a new member on the board the journey you are beginning can be very rewarding in helping your church reach its’ goals but understanding your responsibilities is a key to that success. “But as for you, Daniel, conceal these words and seal up the book until the end of time; many will go back and forth, and knowledge will increase.” Daniel 12:4
As we near the end of the calendar year many churches will have new board members joining the executive council/Church Board. When you agree to serve on this board or any board you are taking on a great deal of responsibility. Knowledge of the church’s policies and procedures are a must. Tyler Charles designed an excellent checklist to review prior to joining the board, to protect you from personal liability as a board member. Even if your church has Directors and Officers liability knowledge of fiscal controls, how to handle confidential situations and issues regarding conflicts of interest must be fully understood.
Checklist for New Board Members
Last Name: _______________________________________________
First Name: _______________________________________________
1. I am familiar with the church’s articles of incorporation (or “charter”).
- Yes
- I need more information about this.
2. I am aware that it is my responsibility as a board member to insure that appropriate safeguards are in place to prevent improper use of church funds.
- Yes
- I need more information about this.
3. I am familiar with all the church’s insurance policies.
- Yes
- I need more information about this.
4. I am familiar with the Model Nonprofit Corporation Act (if our church is incorporated)
- Yes
- I need more information about this.
5. I understand that I can be liable for disclosing confidential information
- Yes
- I need more information about this.
6. I understand that, even as a board member, I should not have access to member’s giving records (unless our church bylaws specify that members must make a specific financial commitment).
- Yes
- I need more information about this.
7. I realize that there are a number of circumstances in which church board members can be held personally liable
- Yes
- I need more information about this.
8. I understand that, as a board member, I can be personally liable for making a loan to a church director or officer.
- Yes
- I need more information about this.
9. I understand that “directors and officers” insurance (if our church has this type of insurance) may provide additional coverage for board members.
- Yes
- I need more information about this.
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