Board Secretary (Volunteer)

About the Foundation

The Harvey Foundation for Justice & Opportunity is a federally incorporated Canadian not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing education and expanding opportunities for individuals and families whose lives have been impacted by crime and the criminal justice system.

Through scholarships, educational grants, community partnerships, and educational initiatives, we aim to reduce systemic barriers and create meaningful pathways toward academic achievement, economic stability, and long-term opportunity.

Our work recognizes that experiences of victimization, justice-system involvement, and the broader impacts on families should not determine an individual’s access to education or future opportunities.

Position Overview

The Harvey Foundation for Justice & Opportunity is seeking a highly organized, detail-oriented, and committed individual to serve as Secretary of the Board of Directors.

The Board Secretary plays an essential role in supporting effective governance, maintaining accurate corporate records, and ensuring the Board operates in accordance with the Foundation’s bylaws and applicable legislative requirements.

As a member of our governance-focused Board, the Secretary will work collaboratively with the Board Chair, Executive Director, and fellow directors to support transparency, accountability, and organizational development.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and maintain accurate minutes of Board and members’ meetings.
• Work with the Board Chair to coordinate meeting agendas and distribute materials.
• Maintain organized records of Board resolutions, meeting minutes, bylaws, and governance documents.
• Support the scheduling and coordination of Board and committee meetings.
• Maintain the Board’s governance calendar and assist with tracking key reporting deadlines.
• Support proper documentation of Board decisions and formal approvals.
• Assist with organizing the Annual General Meeting and other members’ meetings.
• Help ensure corporate records are maintained in accordance with applicable requirements.
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive Board and organizational information.
• Participate in Board discussions, strategic planning, and governance oversight.

Qualifications

We welcome applicants who demonstrate:

• Strong organizational, administrative, and written communication skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and record-keeping abilities.
• Ability to prepare clear, accurate, and professional meeting minutes.
• Familiarity with nonprofit governance, corporate administration, or Board procedures, considered an asset.
• Experience with Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, or similar document-management platforms.
• Strong time-management skills and ability to meet deadlines.
• Commitment to confidentiality, professionalism, and ethical governance.
• An interest in education, access to justice, community development, and reducing systemic barriers.

Previous Board experience is an asset but is not required. We welcome applications from emerging professionals and individuals interested in developing nonprofit governance experience.

Board Commitment

The successful candidate will be expected to:

• Commit a minimum of five hours per month.
• Attend scheduled Board meetings and participate in governance-related activities.
• Review Board materials in advance and contribute constructively to discussions.
• Uphold the Foundation’s mission, values, bylaws, and governance policies.
• Maintain confidentiality and disclose potential conflicts of interest.
• Fulfil the fiduciary responsibilities associated with serving as a director of a federally incorporated not-for-profit organization.

Why Join Our Board?

As a founding Board member, you will have the opportunity to contribute to the development of a growing Canadian not-for-profit organization and help establish strong governance practices from its earliest stages.

You will work alongside individuals committed to educational access, community development, survivor-informed approaches, and meaningful social impact.

This is an opportunity to contribute your expertise while helping build a Foundation dedicated to creating lasting educational opportunities.

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

The Harvey Foundation for Justice & Opportunity is committed to fostering an inclusive and representative Board.

We encourage applications from Indigenous, Black, racialized, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, persons with disabilities, people with lived experience of the criminal justice system, survivors of crime, and individuals from historically underrepresented communities.

We recognize that valuable knowledge and leadership can come from both professional expertise and lived experience.

How to Apply

Interested applicants are invited to submit their resume and a brief statement outlining their interest in the Board Secretary position, relevant experience, and alignment with the Foundation’s mission.

Apply through email:
cassandra@theharveyfoundation.ca

Position: Volunteer Board Secretary
Application Deadline: Open until filled

We thank all applicants for their interest in supporting The Harvey Foundation for Justice & Opportunity. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.