Board Member

The Ottawa Community Loan Fund (OCLF) is a registered charity and non-profit organization dedicated to financial empowerment in the Ottawa area. Since our establishment in 2000, we have played a vital role in community economic development by providing microloans and educational support to marginalized individuals, newcomers, and aspiring entrepreneurs who face barriers to traditional financing.

Our impact includes:

• Facilitation of over 200 microloans totaling approximately $2 million
• Maintaining an exceptional 95%+ loan repayment rate
• Delivering comprehensive financial literacy programs
• Supporting internationally trained professionals in achieving Canadian accreditation
• Partnering with community organizations to provide wrap-around support services

Our Values

• Respect: We treat others with integrity and respect 
• Empowerment: We empower our clients through education and enabling access to affordable financing
• Client-centered: We prioritize client needs in all that we do
• Partnership: We collaborate with Community Partners to improve client access to services

Current Opportunities

We are seeking passionate individuals to join our active Board of Directors.

Time Commitment

• Bi-monthly in-person board meetings (approximately 2 hours each)
• Total monthly commitment: 3-5 hours
• Additional time may be required for committee work and special projects

Ideal Candidates Will Have:

• A strong commitment to OCLF's vision of supporting community members in achieving personal, professional, and financial success
• Understanding of or experience in one or more areas:
  • Financial management and oversight
  • Non-profit governance
  • Community economic development
  • Social finance
  • Immigration and settlement services
  • Small business development
  • Risk management
  • Professional networks within the Ottawa community
  • Previous board experience (asset but not required)

What We Offer:

• Opportunity to contribute to meaningful community economic development
• Engagement with a diverse and committed team of professionals 
• Professional development and networking opportunities
• Chance to make a lasting impact on Ottawa's marginalized communities

How to Apply:

Interested candidates are invited to submit:

• A current resume
• A brief letter outlining your interest and how your experience aligns with OCLF's mission and values

OCLF is committed to diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from members of equity-seeking communities including women, racialized and Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQ2S+ community.

Please send your resume and cover letter to our Executive Director, Greg Lamarche via greg@oclf.org.