Glossary of Roles & Terms
Definition: Individuals legally responsible for the governance and oversight of the nonprofit.
Responsibilities:
Fiduciary oversight of finances and operations
Approving policies, budgets, and major program changes
Hiring and supervising executive staff (if any)
Term / Selection: As defined in the bylaws (e.g., elected by current board, staggered terms).
Notes: Board members carry legal responsibility; they do not directly control individual program payouts.
Definition: People who execute the day-to-day operations of the program.
Responsibilities:
Administering the income distribution system
Maintaining records and reports
Managing communications and community engagement
Notes: Staff may be paid or volunteer; they implement the board’s policies, but do not have fiduciary responsibility.
Definition: Individuals enrolled in the Group Income program who contribute to and/or receive from the shared income pool.
Responsibilities / Rights:
Participate in monthly income reporting and redistribution calculations
Follow community engagement guidelines (e.g., monthly 30-min conversation with a rotating partner)
Receive support according to the program’s rules and policies
Notes: This term is legally neutral and avoids implying voting rights or formal membership unless explicitly granted.
Definition: Program Participants viewed as part of the shared Group Income community.
Purpose:
Emphasizes mutual care, solidarity, and connection
Used in communications, newsletters, community updates
Notes: Encourages a sense of belonging without creating legal obligations tied to “membership” in a cooperative sense.
Definition: Individuals who provide guidance, expertise, or oversight but do not have decision-making authority.
Responsibilities:
Provide feedback or technical advice to the board or staff
Attend meetings as observers if invited
Notes: Useful for fundraising advisors, legal counsel, or domain experts.
✅ Recommended Usage