April 17, 2003 | Read Time: 1 minute
Secrets of Successful Retreats: the Best from the Non-Profit Pros, edited by Carol Weisman, discusses the components of a successful retreat for nonprofit board members. Ms. Weisman, president of Board Builders, a consulting company in St. Louis, compiled this collection of tips from individuals who have worked with and for charities. Each chapter, written by a different expert, discusses one of the decisions that a charity director must make in planning a retreat, including selecting the location and facilitator. In his introductory chapter, Steve Epner, a consultant in St. Louis, describes the purpose of a retreat and says that even small details, such as seating arrangements and food, can influence discussions at the event. Subsequent chapters provide examples of “ice-breaker” sessions to open the retreat and other activities aimed at helping board members write the organization’s mission statement and strategic plan.
Publisher: Board Builders, 48 Granada Way, St. Louis, Mo. 63124; (888) 500-1777; fax (314) 991-0202; http://www.boardbuilders.com; 205 pages; $25.
