Many of us are finding ourselves filled with uncertainty and anxiety about the world situation and the domestic economy. One hopeful development is the important role that a non-governmental, non-corporate organization-the United Nations-has been playing. This reminds us of the roles that our local nonprofits (which are also non-governmental, non-corporate organizations) play in trying to seek agreements, to bring people together, to strive for justice, to argue for common sense, to hope for a better future. - Jan Masaoka

For many nonprofits, “approving the budget” is the cornerstone of board financial oversight.  Unfortunately, though, this act is too often an empty ritual: one where board members peruse a budget that they are unsure is either appropriate to the planned activities or is realistic.  This issue’s Main Course Article takes a look at the problem and suggests some fixes.  There’s also a note on the responses from Board Café readers on taking the minutes.  Enjoy the fall! –Jan Masaoka

The Electronic Newsletter Exclusively for Members of Nonprofit Boards of Directors

Short enough to read over a cup of coffee, the Board Cafe offers a menu of ideas, opinion, news, and resources to help board members give and get the most out of board service. Co-published by the National Center for Nonprofit Boards and CompassPoint Nonprofit Services. Chef / Writer: Jan Masaoka. November 21, 2000. Vol. 4, No. 11. http://www.boardcafe.org.

April may be National Poetry Month, but it feels more like Tax Return Month (Creative Writing Month?) right now. This issue of the Board Café has tips for your 1040, and for your organization's 990 (the nonprofit organization's equivalent). We managed to squeeze in a couple of jokes, too.