“Who is your audience?” people ask me. Personal friends and colleagues have suggested that I write this book for four different types of organizations:
• Faith-based not-for-profit organizations
• Values-based not-for-profit organizations
• Christian churches
• For-profit corporations.
The Relationship Model™ of governance applies to all, but I am writing primarily for the second of these four. Common sense is at the heart of this model of governance, leadership and management. Not-for-profit organizations that are based on a variety of organizational values- humanitarian aid, the arts, education, etc. – have found the Relationship Model™ helpful.
I suggest that the best way to read this book is by starting at the beginning in order to introduce yourself to the conceptual basis of healthy, balanced working relationships detailed in the Relationship Model™. Once you have done this, feel free to move to the section most applicable to you, perhaps the role you have in your organization. There is something here for boards, board chairs, CEOs, managers, paid and volunteer staff.
Three of us have had a role in writing this book. Jennifer Loughlin, my colleague who lives and works in the United Kingdom, has written the sections that deal with competencies of board members, board chairs, chief executive officers and managers. Her research and expertise in competencies, vital components to healthy working relationships, is a major part of the Relationship Model™.
Patti Kelm has edited the entire book to make it relevant for values-based organizations. She has researched other authorities on governance, leadership and management and has added numerous references to their work. Patti lives and works in Canada and is also licensed to consult in the Relationship Model™.
Many of the common English words in the text are used as technical terms. They have specific meaning to give the model clarity. For example, words like strategic and tactical can have several meanings. Other words, like power, hierarchy and accountability have been “abused” over the years. Each carries baggage that changes the meaning for many of us. In this book these words have only one meaning. All words to be taken as technical terms are included in the Definition of Terms in Part 3, Appendix A. Referring to these definitions may help you to understand the model more clearly.
You will also find in the appendices a bibliography of the work of other people on this journey towards knowledge. The development of their themes and concepts is, I believe, worthy of your consideration. Their works are foundational to this practical application of governance to not-for-profit organizations. I have quoted from some of their works, as I considered appropriate and valuable.
Life is a journey of learning, a journey that appears to have no destination of complete wisdom in this life… only milestones of “aha” experiences and discoveries. My purpose is to add value to your own journey by building on what is already available to you.
I believe that from your own experience and common sense, you are already acquainted with the many pieces that make up the “puzzle” of healthy, balanced working relationships. My hope is that this book will help you find clarity in seeing how the many pieces can fit together to form the big picture of a healthy not-for-profit organization.
Les Stahlke | 
