Board/Director Training

Techniques for problem solving in meetings.

Minute Taking can be complex, tricky and challenging. Minute takers are often expected to produce concise and coherent summaries out of chaotic and disorganized meetings. Many are directed to take minutes without documented guidelines on what to record and what to leave out, and without a prior explanation of issues and technical terms used at a meeting.

This packet is full of useful tools for learning about and practicing nonviolent communication. This resource was created by: The Center for Nonviolent Communication (www.cnvc.org), 5600 San Francisco Rd. NE Suite A, Albuquerque, NM 87109, Tel: +1.505.244.4041. "We share our material freely and we appreciate donations. A contribution that reflects your appreciation of what we offer and the value you receive will be used to further the development and distribution of Nonviolent Communication.

This PowerPoint is a part of a workshop presented at the 2009 Staff and Managers Conference.

A decision-making process that many co-ops use is consensus. Consensus is a process of building united judgment whose purpose is not to avoid conflict but to bring out all opinions and perspectives. Each position has a responsibility to present facts and perceptions which are not being considered, to explain her or his position clearly and rationally, and to question the other positions so as to reach full understanding of their positions.

A document of board functions and board self-assesment

Coops, like many non-profits, often have their board members come from a layperson background.  While we typically use this as a strength, allowing for ordinary people to become involved and gain skills through service to their community, there are certain duties which are nearly universally required of board members.  Fortunately, these duties are common-sense enough that they are approachable by anyone. This document is the written portion of a workshop presented by NASCO staff to member coops about how new board members can approach their roles on the board, and make sure to keep up with

“It is time to stop looking at governance as a ‘problem to be solved,’ and instead see governance as an ‘opportunity to change the world.’ ” - Hildy Gottlieb

A guide to making your committee a productive part of your co-op

A brief guide to the designated roles of members at group meetings.