Accountable by What Means?

Non-profit organizations and their boards can ensure and demonstrate their accountability using a variety of processes. The means by which charities are held accountable differ from one organization to the next. Some of these methods are internally driven or self-regulatory in nature, while others are imposed by external bodies. Some are voluntary, while others are mandatory.

Warren Dow and Roy Crowe of Volunteer Vancouver, have analyzed several existing and emerging devices by which a Canadian charity's accountability can be demonstrated:

• Governance Procedures of the Board of Directors
• Government Regulations and Monitoring Agencies
• Accreditation and Certification Processes
• "Whistleblowing" and the Media
• External Watchdog Organizations
• Cyber-Accountability
• The On-Site Analysis Process of the United Way
• Social Auditing

By viewing these accountability mechanisms as opportunities to improve its performance and to promote its accountability, rather than as burdensome responsibilities, your board will be well on its way to effective stewardship.

If you've got a firm grasp of your board's accountabilities, it's time to catch up with your classmates, Carlos and Debra.

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