Volunteer Board Director – Strategic Planning, Innovation & Organizational Development

Distress and Crisis Ontario (DCO), Join the Board of Directors

Volunteer Board Director – Strategic Planning, Innovation & Organizational Development

Help Shape the Future of Distress, Crisis, and Suicidality Services in Ontario

Distress and Crisis Ontario (DCO) is seeking an experienced and visionary leader to join our volunteer Board of Directors. We are looking for an individual with expertise in strategic planning, innovation, organizational development, and governance to help guide the next chapter of our provincial organization to strengthen the sector by building partnerships and ensuring adequate resources are allocated.

For over 50 years, DCO has supported a network of crisis, distress, emotional support, and addictions and suicide prevention organizations across Ontario. Through leadership, education, advocacy, engagement, and system collaboration, we work to strengthen crisis services and improve access to compassionate, person-centred supports throughout the province and country.

As we continue to evolve within an increasingly complex health and social service landscape—including the implementation of 9-8-8 and changing community needs—we are seeking a Board Member who can help us think strategically and innovatively about our future.

We are looking for someone with experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Strategic planning and organizational transformation
• Governance and Board development
• Organizational growth and change management
• Health, mental health, or community services leadership
• Systems thinking and partnership development
• Performance measurement and organizational effectiveness
• Risk management and sustainability
• Executive leadership experience in the nonprofit, public, or private sectors

Previous Board experience is an asset but is not required.

As a Board Director, you will:

• Contribute to the strategic direction and long-term sustainability of DCO.
• Participate in Board meetings and strategic planning initiatives.
• Support sound governance and organizational accountability.
• Provide guidance on emerging opportunities and sector trends.
• Champion collaboration, innovation, and excellence in crisis, emotional support, and addiction services across Ontario.

We are seeking individuals who demonstrate:

• Strategic and future-focused thinking
• Collaborative leadership
• Strong governance and ethical decision-making
• Commitment to public service and community well-being
• Curiosity, integrity, and respect for diverse perspectives

Time Commitment

• Approximately 4-5 Board meetings annually (one in person annually)
• Participation in strategic planning activities and occasional committee work
• Three-year renewable term

Why Join DCO?

This is an opportunity to contribute to a provincial organization that supports life-saving services across Ontario. As a Board Member, you will work alongside experienced leaders committed to strengthening crisis response systems, fostering innovation, and improving access to compassionate support for individuals and communities.

Interested?

We welcome expressions of interest from individuals with diverse backgrounds, lived experiences, and professional expertise.

To express your interest, please submit a brief letter outlining your interest and relevant experience, along with your résumé, to:

Dr. Neta Deonarain-Gear, PhD, RSW
Executive Director
Distress and Crisis Ontario

info@dcontario.org

Applications will be reviewed in mid-August 2026 with further conversations in September.

Distress and Crisis Ontario is committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming Board that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, identities, abilities, and lived experiences.