Indigenous Board Members

LEAF is a not-for-profit organization that envisions vibrant communities where everyone benefits from a healthy urban forest. Our mission is to engage communities in nurturing the urban forest through planting, stewardship and education, fostering connections between people and nature. We offer an array of programs in the Greater Toronto Area. LEAF is committed to equity, inclusion and reconciliation and is dedicated to cultivating an environment where everyone feels able to bring their full selves to the work we do. For more information please visit our website.

We are seeking Indigenous candidates interested in joining our volunteer Board of Directors who share a passion for connecting people with the land. We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in the following areas:

• Anishinaabe teachings about the land for non-Indigenous audiences
• Anishinaabe knowledge of plant names and uses
• Indigenous community engagement

Commitment and Responsibilities

The Board is collectively responsible for the effective governance of the organization and ensures long-term sustainability. The director’s term is 2 years (renewable). Key commitments include:

• Attending bi-monthly virtual meetings (2 hours, held on weekday evenings)
• Participating in annual long-range organizational planning
• Fulfilling governance and fiduciary duties
• Participating in at least one committee
• Dedicating approximately 60 hours per year (5 hours per month)

STEP ONE

Expression of Interest – Deadline Feb 1st, 2026
Please send your resume and a brief description of your interest in joining the LEAF Board of Directors to Janet McKay, Executive Director at janet@yourleaf.org.

STEP TWO

Full Application - Deadline Feb 9, 2026
Individuals who send an expression of interest will be sent a background document sharing information about LEAF’s reconciliation journey. This will include past training as well as a summary of relevant projects and partnerships. In addition, an application form and detailed Board member job description will be shared.

Completed application forms will be due Feb 9, 2025.

A short list of candidates will be selected to participate in a selection process. The process will include a virtual interview during the week of Feb 14 - 22, 2026 with the three-person recruitment committee:

Leigh Simpson-Ahwanaquot - Advisory Consultant
Rema Tavares - LEAF Board Member
Janet McKay - LEAF Executive Director

Formal invitations to join the Board will be made to successful candidates in late March. Training and orientation for new Directors will take place in April and early May, and will attend their first Board meeting in-person at the LEAF office (Wychwood Barns, 601 Christie St, Toronto) on May 27, 2026 from 5:00 - 8:00pm.