Carrie's Corner: All Things By-Laws

We have recently received a stream of questions on nonprofit board bylaws. At the Center, we have plenty of resources to help you get started.

According to Boardsource, a great resource for nonprofit boards, "Bylaws are the legally binding rules that outline how the board of a nonprofit will operate. While they are unique to each organization, nonprofit bylaws generally have a similar structure and use."

Bylaws establish the rules of procedure for your nonprofit when it comes to electing officers, holding important meetings, and voting. Bylaws are a general operating manual for your organization that should be reviewed on a regular basis and revised, when necessary.

Below are some helpful links to resources on establishing bylaws, including samples. 

Don't forget, when you are thinking about joining a nonprofit board, check out the organization's bylaws. They can indicate the health and governance style of an organization.