ROLE OVERVIEW
PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
About us
The Volunteer Well is a Canadian non-profit dedicated to fostering a more inclusive, compassionate society by directly connecting volunteers ("givers") with individuals in need ("receivers"). Through an innovative direct-source volunteering model, we empower individuals, strengthen families, and unite communities, —especially those facing systemic barriers such as women, seniors, new immigrants, low-income individuals, and marginalized groups. Our mission is carried out through an online digital portal (Generosity Hub), impactful inclusive programs and events, partnerships with businesses and philanthropists, and advocacy for generosity as a force for social change. By breaking down traditional barriers to support and promoting a culture of giving and receiving, we envision a world where kindness, justice, and human connection thrive.
Why join us?
By joining The Volunteer Well, you will:
The President of the Board provides leadership to the Board of Directors, ensuring effective governance, strategic alignment with The Volunteer Well’s mission, and sound oversight of the charity’s activities. The President partners closely with the CEO to integrate board guidance into organizational strategy, champions equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), and serves as the primary ambassador to external stakeholders. While guiding and facilitating board affairs, the President does not manage daily operations but ensures the Board fulfills its fiduciary, legal, and strategic responsibilities.
Key Responsibilities
Governance & Strategic Oversight
The Volunteer Well is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from Indigenous, Black, racialized, and 2SLGBTQ+ communities, women, newcomers, persons with disabilities, low-income families, and other equity-deserving groups. We recognize that lived experience is a valuable asset and will be considered where applicable to the role.
PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
About us
The Volunteer Well is a Canadian non-profit dedicated to fostering a more inclusive, compassionate society by directly connecting volunteers ("givers") with individuals in need ("receivers"). Through an innovative direct-source volunteering model, we empower individuals, strengthen families, and unite communities, —especially those facing systemic barriers such as women, seniors, new immigrants, low-income individuals, and marginalized groups. Our mission is carried out through an online digital portal (Generosity Hub), impactful inclusive programs and events, partnerships with businesses and philanthropists, and advocacy for generosity as a force for social change. By breaking down traditional barriers to support and promoting a culture of giving and receiving, we envision a world where kindness, justice, and human connection thrive.
Why join us?
By joining The Volunteer Well, you will:
- Be part of a passionate team committed to strengthening communities and fostering human connection.
- Build meaningful relationships and connect with like-minded individuals.
- Make a real impact while giving back to the community.
- Enjoy a sense of fulfillment by contributing to a cause that promotes inclusivity and support for those in need.
The President of the Board provides leadership to the Board of Directors, ensuring effective governance, strategic alignment with The Volunteer Well’s mission, and sound oversight of the charity’s activities. The President partners closely with the CEO to integrate board guidance into organizational strategy, champions equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), and serves as the primary ambassador to external stakeholders. While guiding and facilitating board affairs, the President does not manage daily operations but ensures the Board fulfills its fiduciary, legal, and strategic responsibilities.
Key Responsibilities
Governance & Strategic Oversight
- Guide the Board in fulfilling its legislated mandate, ensuring focus on strategically important issues and cohesion of purpose at a policy level.
- Collaborate with the CEO and Board to set long-term goals, monitor progress, and adjust board priorities to support the charity’s vision and growth.
- Convene and preside overboard meetings—working with the Board Secretary and CEO to set agendas, allocate sufficient discussion time, and oversee approval of minutes.
- Ensure Board committees are properly constituted, with clear charters; nominate and appoint committee Chairs and members annually.
- Oversee processes for board, committee, and individual Director evaluation; ensure robust orientation for new Directors and ongoing education for existing members.
- Foster teamwork, mediate conflicts, and cultivate a culture of open, respectful dialogue.
- Serve as the primary liaison between the Board and CEO—ensuring clear communication, shared understanding of board decisions, and mutual support.
- Direct the Board Secretary on logistics and record-keeping, while maintaining confidentiality and integrity of board documents.
- Delegate board duties appropriately, making optimal use of Directors’ skills without encroaching on operational management.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of public- and private-sector governance. Lead periodic reviews of by-laws, governance policies, and conflict-of-interest guidelines.
- Champion adoption of “best practices” in how the Board and committees’ function, including transparency, accountability, and compliance with CRA and Corporations Canada requirements.
- Act as the chief ambassador of The Volunteer Well to media, partners, and high-level stakeholders—elevating the charity’s visibility and reputation.
- Encourage board members to contribute financially and to leverage networks for sponsorships, major gifts, and in-kind support.
- Oversee the Board’s equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives, ensuring policies and practices foster a truly inclusive culture.
- Contribute to the organization’s financial sustainability by actively supporting fundraising initiatives. This includes leveraging corporate relationships, personal networks, and other channels to promote funding opportunities.
- Term: Minimum 3-year appointment, with option for renewal upon expiry.
- Monthly and Annual Commitment: At least 8-10 hours/6 to 8 hours per month per month devoted to board leadership, committee oversight, and strategic consultations.
- Meeting Participation: Attend 4 - 6 board meetings per year (virtually or in person), and the Annual General Meeting each year; convene and chair additional special sessions as required.
- Active Engagement: Provide ongoing mentorship to Directors, support strategic decision-making, and uphold the highest standards of governance without managing daily operations.
- Demonstrated track record as a board leader or senior committee Chair in the nonprofit or public sectors.
- Proven ability to guide an organization through growth phases, with strong policy and planning acumen.
- Exceptional skills in leading meetings, building consensus, and resolving conflicts.
- Experience working closely with executive leadership, with a respect for clear role boundaries.
- Unwavering commitment to ethical governance, transparency, and fiduciary responsibility.
- Comfortable representing the organization at high-profile events, media engagements, and with donors.
- Deep alignment with equity, diversity, and inclusion principles; lived experience or allyship with marginalized communities is an asset.
The Volunteer Well is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from Indigenous, Black, racialized, and 2SLGBTQ+ communities, women, newcomers, persons with disabilities, low-income families, and other equity-deserving groups. We recognize that lived experience is a valuable asset and will be considered where applicable to the role.
Required degree level
- Executive/Leadership