Your nonprofit board has the power to propel your organization toward its goals, secure donors you need and advocate for your organization at every turn. It’s easy to take your board for granted, but don’t miss opportunities to show appreciation for its hard work. Recognizing your board members keeps them engaged and motivated to fight the good fight on your behalf. When thanking your nonprofit supporters, don’t forget to put your board members on the list.

Recognize Them Publicly

People feel good when they receive public recognition. They feel like their efforts are worth the hard work because you see the value in what they do. Don’t hold that recognition to yourself. Sharing it publicly can be a big motivator to your board members. Announce a huge win or contribution from a board member at a board meeting or organization-wide meeting or in an email or newsletter. Expand your reach even more by writing an article for a local newspaper, newsletter or community publication to share what your board is doing for your organization.

Offer Ongoing Training

Your board members have an interest in your organization, and they should have some experience in the field. That doesn’t mean their learning is done. Giving board members the chance to learn more about the field or being an effective board member empowers them to work hard for your organization. As your organization grows, the demands of the board often change. Keep up with those changes with continuing training options.

Make Personal Phone Calls

A thoughtful note is nice, but sometimes a personal phone call is more effective. A call gives a board member the chance to engage in conversation with you, offer feedback and feel you’re hearing those thoughts. It’s also a chance to learn more about each board member. You might not have much time in board meetings or during regular interactions to go beyond the work at hand. Make it your goal to call each board member at a set interval once a month or once a quarter.

Acknowledge Special Occasions

Send a birthday card, or give members anniversary tokens for years served on the board. Throw a holiday party, or send a thoughtful holiday gift. These little tokens show appreciation beyond the work the board members do for your organization. They’re thoughtful gestures that help to build a well-rounded relationship with your board members, and they show you appreciate the volunteers year-round, not just when they’re doing something great for your organization.

Use Their Contributions

One of the easiest ways to show appreciation for your nonprofit board members is by working with them and implementing their ideas. Telling them you appreciate what they do and then doing the complete opposite of what they suggest shows you don’t value what they’re doing for the organization. Instead of seeing them as a roadblock to doing what you want, look at the board as your partner in achieving your mission. Build a productive relationship with your board members. When board members see you putting their ideas into action, they’re motivated to continue supporting your goals and fulfilling their assignments with enthusiasm.

Appreciation is something that’s easy to give, but it’s also easy to miss opportunities to recognize your board’s efforts. Make it a point to show genuine appreciation whenever you can to keep your board members engaged and excited to work with you.