Contact: Evy A. Gonzalez
Governance Matters, Inc.
admin@governancematters.org
May 2, 2007

Name change for NYC nonprofit governance think-tank and referral agency: The Alliance for Non-profit Governance renamed Governance Matters
New York, N.Y. (May 1, 2005) Today, the Alliance for Nonprofit Governance officially changed its name to Governance Matters and launched its upgraded, interactive web site, www.governancematters.org.

Founded in 1999, Governance Matters is the first and only collaborative organization within New York City whose sole focus is nonprofit governance. Its mission is to assist the boards of the citys 29,000 nonprofit organizations better serve their more than 2.2 million constituents.*

After lengthy analysis, the Board of Directors concluded that the name, the Alliance for Nonprofit Governance, was too easily confused with that of other organizations and was ineffective.

"Our new name -- Governance Matters -- is catchy and conveys a welcoming, enthusiastic, motivational and proactive image," said Michael Davidson, Chair of the Board of Directors. "No one should be confused by the change because during a two-year transition period, the name Governance Matters will be followed by the tag line, 'Formerly known as the Alliance for Nonprofit Governance'."

"While many boards are skilled at fundraising and developing programs, effective governance requires much more," said founding Chair, Carolyn Patterson. "Clarifying a mission, crafting and implementing organizational strategies, cultivating new board leaders and ensuring financial oversight are critically important. Yet often board members may not be aware of those aspects of their job and may not have the training necessary to understand or execute these tasks."

Mrs Patterson continued, "For nonprofits, the results of poor governance can be devastating. Mismanagement or bankruptcy can cause suffering among those with the greatest needs."

Governance Matters provides its' members with the practical tools and resources to develop their management and leadership skills and make sure that their organizations are equipped to fulfill their missions. The organization's 215 members include board members, executive staff, regulators, technical assistance providers, funders, volunteers, academics and consultants.

Governance Matters will held its last bi-annual conference, 'Ethics Matters: The Dilema of Decision', on November 1st, 2005, at New York University's Helen and Martin Kimmel Center for University Life. The conference is just one example of the issues-based Forums, exclusive Roundtables and discussions through which members gain insights, practical information and perspective from leading experts.

Governance Matters new logo and web site designs were funded in part by generous contributions from members as well as grants from the Achelis Foundation, the Francis L and Edwin L. Cummings Memorial Fund, the Stella and Charles Guttman Foundation, the United Way of New York, the Spingold Foundation and Citigroup.

*Statistical Source: New York City Non Profits Project Report, Julian Wolpert and John Seley, 2001