Preparing an annual report

An annual report is an outline of the key activities and financial performance of an organisation for the previous year. The annual report is an opportunity for an organisation to set out:

• What was achieved?
• Who was helped?
• On what did the organisation spend money?
•  Where did the money come from?
•  How this links to the mission and values of the organisation

A sample layout for the report of a small organisation is contained below, however each organisation may have a format that suits its own needs and objectives:

•          Mission / Values

•          Staff

•          Main accomplishments

•          Details of accomplishments

•          Financial information

•          List of Board members

•          Acknowledgements

Information from the report may also be used to complete section 2.5 on Achievements and Development. ICSH member Focus Ireland has won several national awards for its annual report, including from the Institute of Creative Advertising and Design and Accountancy Ireland. Its report for 2012 is available here and gives an indication as to the type of content that should be included in the report.

Related to producing a coherent and appropriate annual report is the need to have regular and effective board meetings so the business of the association is monitored and managed. The board of directors will have ultimate responsibility for the affairs of the association and some advice on how to hold meetings is contained here. These should start and finish on time and keep to an agreed agenda and voting structure.