Industry
Nonprofit, Community & Recreation
Our Role
- Board Governance Assessment & Stakeholder Interviews
- Pre-Retreat Surveys & Board Readiness Review
- Governance Education & Fiduciary Training
- Facilitation of Board Retreat & Strategic Conversations
- Post-Retreat Action Planning
Situation
As it approached its 10th anniversary, the Lauri Ann West Community Center (LAWCC) entered a period of leadership transition and strategic opportunity. While the Center had strong finances and vibrant programming, the Board of Directors had not engaged in formal development or governance training. Longstanding board members were cycling off, and new members—some with limited nonprofit experience—were stepping in. With strategic planning on the horizon, LAWCC sought to strengthen board performance and ensure alignment on roles, responsibilities, and expectations.
Solution
The Hill Group designed and led a customized governance engagement to build shared understanding and chart a course for strong board stewardship:
- Conducted stakeholder interviews and reviewed board materials to assess readiness
- Distributed pre-retreat surveys to identify learning priorities and concerns
- Designed and facilitated an interactive board training retreat
- Educated board members on fiduciary duties, board-executive partnership, and effective governance
- Led strategic conversations about LAWCC’s future direction and board culture
- Documented key takeaways and action steps to guide future development
Results
- Clarified board roles, expectations, and best practices for composition and engagement
- Reinforced fiduciary responsibilities and the importance of board-staff partnership
- Reaffirmed board ownership of fundraising and mission advancement
- Identified next steps for committee leadership, recruitment, and structure
- Positioned the board for effective engagement in LAWCC’s next strategic planning process
- Sparked renewed enthusiasm and alignment around LAWCC’s long-term vision
Behind the Scenes
This was more than a training—it was a pivotal moment of reflection and recommitment. The Hill Group helped LAWCC build governance confidence and clarity at a key moment of transition. With a more informed and unified board, the Center is now better equipped to lead, serve, and grow in the decade ahead.