Episode 132: Board Mentors in Action: Guiding New Nonprofit Leaders

In this episode of Senior Living Visionaries, host Jennifer Drago dives into the transformative power of board mentorship programs. As part of our series on board orientation, Jennifer shares practical tips on how assigning experienced board members as mentors can elevate new board member success. From fostering engagement to promoting effective governance, learn why board mentorship is a game-changer for nonprofit boards. Plus, discover actionable strategies for implementing a mentorship program that supports both mentors and mentees.

[1:30] - The importance of board mentors for new board members

o Helps new members feel comfortable and engaged quickly

o Provides one-on-one support for questions and clarification

[3:15] - Key responsibilities of an effective board mentor:

o Attend orientation with new member

o Check in after first few board meetings

o Meet for lunch/coffee to discuss board dynamics

o Be available to answer questions

[5:45] - Recommended timeline for mentorship: 6-12 months

[7:00] - Best practices for board mentor programs:

o Only assign willing mentors

o Intentionally match mentors and mentees

o Provide clear expectations and structure

o Avoid creating cliques or "meetings outside meetings"

[9:30] - Benefits of strong board mentor programs:

o Transforms onboarding experience

o Drives better board performance

o Fosters culture of inclusion and support

[11:00] - Key takeaways and encouragement to implement board mentors

[12:15] - Closing remarks and information on free board orientation checklist resource

Ready to strengthen your board? ✅Download our free Board Orientation Checklist, "Onboarding for Impact: The Essential Checklist for Nonprofit Board Orientation," at https://bit.ly/4adTGxK.

Have questions or feedback? Email Jennifer at [e-mail].

About Our Host:

Jennifer Drago is an award-winning strategist, author, speaker and certified business coach. At Peak to Profit consulting, she helps senior living, healthcare and nonprofit organizations get clear on their vision and strategy so they can identify -- and execute on -- opportunities for growth, revenue and operational efficiencies.

Jennifer worked as a strategy and operations executive in the healthcare and senior living industries for 35+ years, facilitating strategic plans and developing new programs and service lines. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Finance, a master’s degree in Business Administration and a master’s degree in Health Services Administration from Arizona State University.

Visit http://seniorlivingvisionaries.com/ or our sponsor, https://www.peaktoprofit.com/, to learn more!

You can also follow Jennifer on her LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferdrago/

About the Show:

*Senior Living Visionaries* is a podcast that brings together innovative leaders and forward-thinkers in senior living to share insights, strategies, and inspiring stories that shape the future of the senior living industry. The show regularly features best practices in the boardroom to strengthen nonprofit governance, offering practical advice and bold ideas to empower professionals and organizations to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape.

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