COMMUNITY & LEADERSHIP / LESSON 3

Roles, Leadership and Accountability

Make the structure of a community understandable and reviewable.

Different forms of leadership

Groups may use elected organizers, rotating facilitators, volunteer teachers, coven leaders or experienced advisers. The names used can carry different meanings across traditions. Define actual responsibilities instead of relying on impressive titles.

Record who has access to membership information, financial accounts and moderation tools. Separate responsibilities where possible, especially when money or sensitive information is involved.

Accountability in practice

A leader should welcome questions, disclose conflicts of interest and have a process for reviewing complaints. No person should be insulated from accountability because of a spiritual rank.

Periodically review whether rules serve the community's stated purposes. Be willing to change procedures after listening to participants.

YOUR STUDY PRACTICE

Put it into perspective

Draft a role chart for a group of ten with a facilitator, safety contact, treasurer and records steward.

FURTHER READING

Research: nonprofit governance and community organizational practice.

KNOWLEDGE CHECK

Review your understanding

Choose one answer per question. Feedback explains why each answer is correct.

1. What is a sign of accountable leadership?