When a group of people join together for a common cause, there is a lot of emotion involved. Sometimes it stems from your children being involved, an investment of your time or money, and mostly because you are passionate about the same thing. Unfortunately when emotion and relationships are involved there can be conflict.
Some areas of conflict can be dealt with through the development of strong policies and procedures about the business of the organization, but in many cases the conflict arises from a relational difference. There can be a disagreement between executive or board members, between staff and board, between the board and other volunteers, or amongst the members. Being aware of conflict and having a degree of knowledge will help you assess the situation and de-escalate problems.
Resources
- Board Culture and Dynamics
- Can Conflict in Non-Profits be Managed Successfully?: Elisabeth Seaman, Learn2Resolve
- Conflict Within your Non-Profit - Handle with Care: Foundation Group
- Governing Good: Managing Conflict - A Guide for Volunteer Boards
- ADR Institute of Alberta (ADRIA) is the source of Alternative Dispute Resolution information, resources, and expertise in Alberta
- Online Dispute Resolution Processes – Concord Law School