future.

They have come from Ms Nancy R. Axelrod, executive director of the Washington-based National Centre for Nonprofit Boards.

Around 250 people from a host of voluntary bodies filed into the Hamilton Princess last week to be given tips on beefing up their boards.

Among the group were the Bermuda Handicapped Association, Bermuda Red Cross, World Vision, Chamber of Commerce, Committee for the Protection of Children, Meals on Wheels, Sunshine League, Committee of 25, and Bermuda Zoological Society.

Ms Axelrod, invited here by the Committee on Philanthropy, gave her message through a special seminar -- "One Head, Many Hats, The Critical Role of the Nonprofit Board''.

Later she chaired another question-and-answer session, presenting models of successful "board develop ment programmes''.

Ms Axelrod's advice included: recognise the need to invest in board development; develop a job description for the board, and analyse the expectations of individual members; and keep the board informed.

Other tips included: Plan special workshops; recognise board service; and provide "orientation'' for board members.

Ms Axelrod said it was essential for the board to have a particular goal.

"It is ultimately the board's responsibility to articulate the mission, review it, and refine it.'' Ms Axelrod said she had been greatly impressed by the "dedication, pride and commitment'' of Bermuda's voluntary sector.

"They are not shy about sharing their concerns and interests,'' she added.

Ms Axelrod has served as a volun teer, board member and consultant to many nonprofit organisations.