b'GrowthRIPPLESNew Year, New MissionLeading with clarity, courage, and Kingdom impactby Penny KievetAs the new year dawns, most of us are praying and plan- 3. Board-staff linkage: one voice, one visionning for greater impactto reach more people, restoreHealthy ministry requires healthy relationships. Policy more lives, and reflect Christ more clearly in all we do.Governance sets a clear, respectful partnership between Every new year brings fresh vision and renewed passionthe board and CEO. The board speaks with one voice to to see lives transformed. But, as many of us have learned,the CEO, who is accountable for achieving the defined passion and good intentions alone wont sustain healthyends within set limitations. This clear linkage prevents con-ministry. Without a clear governance model, boards andfusion, fosters mutual trust, and unites everyone around a leaders can easily wander into confusion, burnout, or mis- shared mission instead of divided authority.sion drift. Thats why many of our missions and ministries are turning to Policy Governancea proven framework4. Governance process: keeping the main that brings unity, focus, and accountability to how we lead.thing the main thingWhat a way to start a new year!Finally, Policy Governance provides a disciplined frame-1. It starts with the ends: work for how the board governs itselfdefining its own Gods results, not just our activity role, accountability, and process rather than day-to-day Policy Governance begins by asking the most importantmanagement. This allows board members to focus on question: Why does this ministry exist and what changesstrategic leadership and spiritual oversight.are we here to bring about in the lives of those we serve?Policy Governance gives our missions and ministries the The boards primary focus is on defining the ends thestructure to serve boldly, the clarity to stay on mission, ultimate impact and results that express Gods heart forand the accountability to honor Christ in all things. Thats restoration and transformation. This kind of clarity allowsleadership renewal worth celebrating this year. the CEO and staff to align every effort toward achieving those redemptive outcomes, rather than getting boggedFor more information on Policy Governance, visit the down in operational details. Citygate Network website and read about our Ripple 2. Executive limitations: freedom withinEffect board training program.faithful boundariesInstead of micromanaging, the board sets clear boundar- Penny Kievet retired as executive director of City Rescue Mission in Jacksonville, Florida, ies through executive limitations policies. These policiesthe last day of 2020. She has served on many define what means or actions are unacceptable, ensuringboards, including that of Citygate Network. the mission or ministry operates ethically, legally, and inShe continues to stay connected to missions alignment with biblical values. Within those boundaries,through her teaching and coaching for Ripple Effect and her role as regional coordinator for the CEO and his/her staff have the freedom to innovatethe Deep South, North Carolina, South Carolina, and respond quickly to needs, stewarding the ministrysand Tennessee. You can contact her atmission with both creativity and responsibility. pkievet@citygatenetwork.orgcitygatenetwork.org 48'