Summer Resources for Year-Round Board Success

The summer months are a great time for presidents and boards of directors to kickstart planning for the upcoming year. With impending board changes, and especially with the possible addition of new board members, summer presents a prime opportunity to set clear objectives and chart a course for a productive and meaningful year.

Here are six important ways you can jumpstart your summer planning:

Start Planning Your Board Orientation

Set your new board up for success by planning your board orientation program. Access our Building a Board Orientation Program to build a cohesive team, create a B'rit K'hilah, nurture sacred partnerships, and more! Recommit to creating Communities of Belonging by reviewing the URJ's most up-to-date REDI resources and consider having your board sign up for an annual REDI 101 training.

Explore essential tools

Our curated toolkits make it easier to manage the work of leading your congregation. These toolkits include goal setting templates, ambassador checklists, tips for holding effective meetings, and more resources to help you prepare for the coming year. Activate your free BoardSource membership to access additional tools, such as "Eight Ways to Increase Your Board's Ability to Work as a Team."

Develop a Culture of Philanthropy

Check out our resources for creating a culture of philanthropy in The Tent, where you'll find articles, blogs, guides, speeches, and examples of materials. You'll learn how to define a culture of philanthropy, help your board embrace their role as partners in this process, and receive tools and materials to adopt these principles while moving toward a culture of philanthropy.

empower your leadership with the urj marketplace

Request your login information by emailing marketplace@urj.org. The Marketplace offers exclusive benefits for URJ members that support congregational operations, governance, engagement, and leadership development. The URJ Marketplace provides exclusive offers for members as well as proprietary toolkits, services, trainings, and more.

save the date for important leadership trainings

Invite your board and other lay leaders to the Leadership Boot Camp on October 26, 2025. This virtual day of learning is the URJ's premier training for congregational leaders. You can also plan ahead for the URJ's Scheidt Seminar for presidents and presidents-elect. This in-person event will take place April 16-19, 2026.

Connect With Your URJ Membership Partners

The Congregational Services Team is always happy to connect and assist you! Please do not hesitate to contact us at urj1800@urj.org or 1-855-URJ-1800.