Start Your Year with a Board Retreat
A retreat for a board of directors focuses these stakeholders on why they are involved and why they are committed to your organization. The first quarter of your fiscal year is the best time to hold a board retreat and the best time to get it on everyone’s calendar is at the end of the previous year’s retreat. Assuming your organization’s fiscal year matches the calendar year, January through March is the time to meet.
A board retreat must have clearly defined goals or outcomes that are communicated to all participants. Consider the following questions as you plan your retreat with your board chair.
- When was the last time the bylaws, mission, vision, and values were reviewed by the board?
- Are your annual fundraising and program goals guided by a strategic plan?
- What are the operational challenges your organization may face in 2026?
- What is the bigger picture for your organization and the people you serve? Where do you want the organization to be in 3, 5, and 10 years?
Here are guidelines to help you succeed:
- Clearly define and communicate the purpose of the retreat.
- Share the agenda with all participants ahead of time.
- Allow time for discussion and interactive planning.
- Have breakout groups with real problems to solve.
- Help everyone realize how important they are to the organization.
- Schedule the retreat for a day and time when most, if not all, board members and senior staff can attend in-person. This may be a day during the work week or a Saturday morning.
- Hire a facilitator. This is not a DIY position for the staff or board.
- Include this expense in your budget.
- Invest in someone with a track record.
- Investing in a facilitator demonstrates the importance of the retreat.
- An outsider brings an impartial point of view to the retreat.
- They can ask hard questions because they do not have a personal stake in the organization.
- Choose a venue that is conducive to a group meeting and that suits the culture of your organization. A corporate conference room may work for one group, but the living room at someone’s home may work for another.
- Keep it simple.
Board members should leave the retreat with a sense of clarity and accomplishment. The goals set should guide the board and staff throughout the year. Lastly, consider a mid-year check-in at a board meeting or a half-day retreat. And remember, the best time to plan your next board retreat is right after this one.
Best Wishes for a Better New Year!
At DMGroupConsulting, our goal is to help you achieve your goals. Schedule a free 30 minute consultation.
