By Lynn Chambers

The Alliance for Nonprofit Governance (ANG) was formed in October 1999 to raise the standards of nonprofit governance in New York state through advocacy and education of those who influence nonprofit boards. Through support from the New York Community Trust, the Cummings Memorial Fund and the New York Junior League, among others, ANG is working to create a nonprofit community that is governed effectively and efficiently by boards comprised of knowledgeable, committed individuals.

At its annual meeting on Feb. 1, Carolyn Patterson, ANG president, noted that the controversies surrounding the distribution of Sept. 11 funds have shone a spotlight on nonprofit governance that ANG is ideally suited to address. With that in mind, the members put forth five proposals concerning nonprofit governance.

Individual groups broke off to discuss each proposal. Focusing on research, marketing and communication, program development, member relations and resource development, the groups presented their findings and opinions to the rest of the alliance. Suggestions included a call for ANG to position itself as a clearinghouse for existing materials; engaging umbrella groups of accountants, lawyers and fund-raising consultants to spread the word about the importance of governance; following up on marketing efforts; identifying possible funding sources, and concentrating on best practices and good governance examples.

The next ANG meeting has been scheduled for April 9 and will address the Better Business Bureau’s emphasis on governance standards.

The New York State Society of CPAs is a member of ANG.

New members are welcome. Please check www.ANGonline.org or contact Ms. Patterson at Carolynlp@aol.com for more information.