Workbook Series

The Board Development Program, in conjunction with the Muttart Foundation, created the following workbooks. They are distributed with the assistance of the Resource Centre for Voluntary Organizations at Volunteer Alberta, and Volunteer Calgary. They have been a huge success, and have had a positive impact on not-for-profit organizations in Alberta.

Editor's Notes:
The versions of the workbooks that appear on this website are the latest edited versions including the Index feature.

Developing Job Descriptions for Board Members of Nonprofit Organizations

I've got the job, now what am I supposed to do?

Write effective and comprehensive job descriptions for every member of your board. Clarify roles and responsibilities so that your volunteer board works effectively and efficiently. Includes suggestions for executive positions, committee chairpersons, and general board member duties.

PDF Version of the workbook (302 kb)

Drafting and Revising Bylaws

Yes, but what does it all mean?

Navigate the challenging world of organizational bylaws. Translated from "legalese" to everyday language, this step-by-step approach makes developing or revising bylaws easier that you ever thought. Also contains information about incorporating as a not-for-profit society in Alberta.

PDF Version of the workbook (598 kb)

BOARD BUILDING: Recruiting and Developing Effective Board Members for Not-for-Profit Organizations

Want to get the best people on your board, and keep them there?

Recruit and develop skilled and committed leaders for your not-for-profit organization. Consider board member responsibilities, expectations and motivation. Target volunteers with appropriate qualities and learn more about retaining them through effective orientation, training, recognition and evaluation.

PDF Version of the workbook (712 kb)

Hiring and Performance Appraisal of the Executive Director

Hiring and appraising the executive director of a not-for-profit organization are big jobs. Many competent and effective boards approach these jobs with a sense of fear and trepidation. They know the choice of an executive director has far-reaching consequences for the health, viability, and future of the organization, so it is important to select the most appropriate person. As well, they know that sound management of the performance of the executive director is essential for making sure that the organization is meeting the goals that the board has set.

This workbook is designed as a guide for boards of directors who are in the process of hiring a new executive director and/or providing the executive director with a performance appraisal.

Click here to see a .pdf version of this workbook (603 kb)

Financial Responsibilities of Not-for-Profit Boards

Is keeping the accounts of your not-for-profit organization keeping you awake at night?

Then this edition of the highly successful BOARD DEVELOPMENT workbook series is for you! This book will guide you through the maze of financial management. It transforms a confusing list of numbers into helpful information. The financial responsibilities of a not-for-profit organization are clarified. Budgets, book keeping and reading the financial statements format are presented. Also featured is a financial management checklist.

PDF Version of the workbook (687 kb)

Interested in ordering any of our workbooks?

Hard copies of these workbooks are available for purchase through Resource Center for Voluntary Organizations at Volunteer Alberta or Volunteer Calgary

Last reviewed/revised: December 1, 2011