It is important for boards of directors/trustees and advisory councils serving the same agencies to be aware of possible areas of intersection of duties and activities. There should be no secrets. Within reason, the left hand should always know what the right hand is doing to avoid duplication of effort, stepping on toes and other types of potential conflict. In general, advisory councils will focus on educating themselves, their communities and their agencies on the many issues and emerging trends, innovations and best practices in aging and social service delivery. Meanwhile, boards will place emphasis on the big picture, helping area agencies decide when to act on advisory council recommendations and providing leadership and resource stewardship that cultivates the most efficient, effective and responsible operation of the agency. (read more…)