Due Care
- Requirement that board members exercise reasonable care when making a decision on behalf of the organization.
- Be informed. Ask questions. Seek out information from credible sources.
- Actively participate in board discussions.
- Use common sense.
- Use the same care you would in making decisions in your personal life and business life.
Loyalty
- Board members must act in the best interests of the organization.
- Do not use information obtained as a board member for personal gain. Avoid conflicts of interest/loyalty.
- When making decisions for the organization, put the organization’s interests above the interests of other organizations you may be part of.
Obedience
- Ensure that the organization follows its own mission, articles of incorporation, bylaws, and formal policies.
- Ensure that the organization follows all applicable federal, state, and local laws and requirements.
(Required by Oregon state law, ORS 65.357 General standards for directors; similar requirements in states across the country.)