That’s the question a former state regulator recently told nonprofit leaders to ask their staff members. He reasoned that because staff members are familiar with the organization, they are the best source to point out the charity’s weaknesses and vulnerabilities and to suggest improvements.
While many nonprofit leaders will not feel comfortable with this approach, it is a good reminder that executives need to be aware of what is happening at their organizations and take steps (even if it’s not this one) to secure their charitable funds.
A good place to start is by reviewing the organization’s financial procedures, as we recently advised you to do. Then take whatever precautionary measures are necessary to ensure that there is no answer to the regulator’s question.