Volunteer Board of Directors

OUTniagara is seeking dedicated and skilled individuals to join its Board of Directors. We welcome all applications and encourage anyone with a passion for supporting the 2S&LGBTQ+ community to apply. Based on a recent Board Skills assessment, we are specifically seeking expertise in the following priority areas: • Fund Development/Grant Writing: All board members are expected to contribute to fundraising initiatives. However, we are particularly interested in candidates with fund development and or grant writing experience to further support OUTniagara’s mission and sustainability. • Human Resources Management: We seek expertise in HR to assist with volunteer management and potential future staff management. Currently, OUTniagara operates without paid staff, so this role would focus on enhancing volunteer engagement and organizational development. • Legal & Risk Management: Experience in legal and risk management for not-for-profit organizations is essential to help ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements and to assist in risk mitigation where applicable. • Social Services with respect to 2S&LGBTQ+ Advocacy • Corporate / Not for Profit Governance and Regulatory Compliance • & more Volunteer Board of Directors Job Description Position Title: Board Member Purpose of the Position: To contribute to the governance and strategic direction of OUTniagara, ensuring the organization fulfills its mission and effectively serves the 2S&LGBTQ+ community. Key Responsibilities of the Board: • Governance: Establish and uphold the vision, mission, and strategic direction of OUTniagara as well as any legal, or regulatory requirements outset by the Government of Ontario and ONCA standards. • Policy Development: Develop and approve organizational policies that align with the strategic goals. • Financial Oversight: Ensure financial stability and integrity through budgeting, financial reporting, and resource allocation. • Performance Monitoring: Evaluate the performance of the organization in fulfilling its mission and strategic objectives. • Community Engagement: Promote OUTniagara’s mission and programs within the community and support fundraising efforts. • Meetings: Attend and actively participate in Board meetings and committee assignments. Officer Roles and Responsibilities: 1. Co-Chairs: (currently filled, listing for awareness) • Oversee the development of strategic plans and policies. • Prepare an annual schedule of Board meetings and establish agendas aligned with Board goals. • Facilitate effective and efficient meetings of Members and the Board. • Serve as the primary communication points with senior management (if applicable), providing guidance on Board expectations. • Develop standards for decision-support packages for the Board and management. • Monitor and evaluate the performance of senior management through an annual process. • Report regularly to the Board on governance issues. • Set a high standard for Board conduct and mentor other Directors, addressing any performance issues. 2. Secretary (if appointed): (currently filled, listing for awareness, seeking new Secretary for March 2025) • Maintain a roll of Members' names and addresses. • Ensure proper notice is given for all meetings. • Record and maintain minutes of all meetings and ensure compliance with legal requirements. • Manage correspondence on behalf of the Board and maintain custody of all minute books, documents, and electronic files. 4. Treasurer (if appointed): (interim Treasurer exists, seeking a Board Member with Financial Background) • Keep accurate accounts of all assets, liabilities, receipts, and disbursements. • Ensure all funds are deposited and managed according to Board directives. • Provide regular financial reports to the Executive and Finance Committee, as well as the Board. • Ensure that regulatory and legal financial documents are prepared for the organization prior to the annual AGM • Ensure that the financial filings with the CRA are completed annually as outlined by CRA and ONCA requirements. • Perform additional duties as directed by the Board. Required Skills and Qualifications: • Passion for and commitment to the 2SLGBTQ+ community. • Previous experience in a governance role or understanding of not-for-profit operations. • Strong communication and interpersonal skills. • Ability to work collaboratively and make informed decisions. • Alignment with a required skill(s) and competency(ies) outlined in the OUTniagara Board Skills Matrix to ensure a diverse and effective Board composition. Time Commitment Board members are expected to dedicate sufficient time to fulfil their responsibilities in support of OUTniagara’s mission and objectives. Given the board’s operational role, in addition to its governance and strategic duties, members should be prepared for a more hands-on involvement in the organization’s activities, as there is currently no paid staff. Specific Time Requirements: · Board Meetings: Attend a minimum of eight (8) board meetings annually, with an expectation to make every effort to attend all twelve (12) scheduled meetings each year. Meetings are approximately 2 hours each, with preparation time in advance. Additional special meetings may be scheduled as needed. · Committee Participation: Actively participate in at least one board committee, meeting a minimum of six (6) times per year but usually once per month, with each meeting lasting about 1-2 hours. · Organizational Activities: Support and attend key organizational events, community engagement activities, and fundraising initiatives, as availability permits. Time expectations may vary depending on the event. · Preparation and Follow-Up: Dedicate additional time to reviewing materials, preparing for meetings, and completing follow-up tasks, estimated at 2-6 hours per month. On average, the monthly time commitment required varies between 8 to 15 hours per month. This operational focus reflects OUTniagara’s current needs, where board members actively contribute to both strategic direction and daily tasks essential for maintaining and advancing OUTniagara’s programs and initiatives. Benefits and Expectations: Serving on OUTniagara’s Board of Directors offers several meaningful and professional benefits, especially given the organization’s focus on advocacy, social education, and community engagement within the 2S&LGBTQ+ community: 1. Impactful Community Contribution: Board members have the unique opportunity to support 2S&LGBTQ+ advocacy and contribute to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging, and Reconciliation (DEIBR) initiatives, directly impacting the community and advancing social change. 2. Enhanced Leadership Experience: Serving in an operational and strategic role builds leadership skills, as board members are involved in a wide range of responsibilities that include governance, strategy development, program support, and community outreach. 3. Professional Development: Board service provides access to a rich learning environment. Members gain experience in governance practices, financial oversight, policy development, and project management, all of which enhance professional skills valuable in various sectors. 4. Networking Opportunities: Board members connect with other community leaders, activists, and professionals within and beyond the 2S&LGBTQ+ community, expanding their personal and professional networks and building meaningful relationships. 5. Advancement of DEIBR Knowledge and Practice: As OUTniagara focuses on DEIBR, board members deepen their understanding of these critical areas and develop practical skills for promoting inclusive practices within the community and their own workplaces. 6. Personal Fulfillment and Purpose: Many individuals find a strong sense of fulfillment and purpose by giving back to the community. Board service allows members to align their values with action, making a meaningful impact in an area they care deeply about. 7. Potential for Influence in Local and Regional Policy: With OUTniagara’s active role in community advocacy, board members may influence policies or initiatives that promote the rights and well-being of the 2S&LGBTQ+ community across Niagara. All applications will be reviewed, however only candidates who are selected for an interview will be contacted. If you are interested in other opportunities within OUTniagara please apply on our website at www.outniagara.org