Board 101: A Quick Guide to Your Role
Welcome, and thank you for serving on the Board of The Art of Drinking Water. This short guide is here to help you feel oriented and confident—especially if this is your first time serving on a board.
Every board member at The Art of Drinking Water is a Director. This simply means you are part of the group responsible for guiding and overseeing the organization at a big-picture level.
As a Director, you help:
- Protect the mission and values of the organization
- Provide thoughtful oversight and perspective
- Participate in key decisions that support long-term sustainability
You are not expected to manage day-to-day operations unless separately approved to do so in a non-board role.
- Director: the formal, legal term used in governing documents
- Board Member: a common, conversational term (it means the same thing here)
- Officer: a Director who also serves in a specific leadership role (President, Treasurer, etc.)
- Committee Member: a Director (or advisor) serving on a smaller working group
All Directors have one vote. Officers do not have more authority than the Board as a whole.
We ask that Directors:
- Attend board meetings when possible
- Review materials ahead of meetings
- Participate thoughtfully and respectfully
- Ask questions—especially when something is unclear
You do not need prior board experience. Learning together is part of the process.
Not necessarily. Some board members enjoy fundraising; others contribute in different ways. Expectations will be discussed openly and respectfully.
What if I miss a meeting?Life happens. Please let us know when you can’t attend. Materials and context will be shared so you can stay informed.
Am I personally liable for decisions?Directors are generally protected when acting in good faith and in the best interest of the organization. The organization also maintains appropriate indemnification and insurance.
Do I have to be an expert in everything?No. Your perspective matters more than expertise. Asking good questions is often more valuable than having answers.
Who do I contact if I have questions?You can always reach out directly with governance or process questions. No question is too small.