Back in 2024, Ontario Nonprofit Network shared five ways nonprofits can make their governance practices more accessible. Since then they developed a workshop on accessible governance building on these teachings. In December of 2025, I had the pleasure of delivering this workshop to member food banks of Daily Bread Food Bank. The following reflect the insights of participants and our host.
They had a thought-provoking discussion that has led me to the conclusion that more accessible governance is oftentimes simply better governance. This is similar to the curb cut effect, whereby curbsides that are made more physically accessible end up being more useful to all users regardless of physical ability. So here are three ways that removing barriers that prevent specific directors and members from participating will ultimately help all your directors and members participate.