Volunteer Board Member

Volunteer Board Member — Autism Dog Services Inc.

Organization: Autism Dog Services Inc.
Position Type: Volunteer Board of Directors
Preferred Location: Ontario, Canada preferred, but not required
Compensation: Unpaid volunteer position
Time Commitment: Approximately 10 remote Board meetings per year, plus preparation time and occasional ad hoc support
Term: Annual nominations at AGM
Application Deadline: July 1, 2026

About Autism Dog Services

Autism Dog Services is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting children, youth and adults with autism and their families through the placement of professionally trained autism service dogs. These dogs help provide safety, companionship, emotional support, and increased independence for children and families navigating the challenges of autism. Our work is rooted in the belief that service dogs can make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals, their families, and their broader communities.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a thoughtful and committed individual to join our Board of Directors and help guide the organization’s continued impact. The ideal candidate will bring strong financial analysis skills, strategic thinking, and an interest in helping the organization strengthen its fundraising strategy and long-term sustainability. This individual will also serve as a trusted advisor to the Executive Director and fellow Board members. This is a meaningful opportunity for someone who wants to use their professional expertise to support a mission-driven organization.

Key Responsibilities

As a member of the Board of Directors, you will help provide oversight, guidance, and strategic direction to Autism Dog Services. Responsibilities include:

• Participating in approximately 10 remote Board meetings per year.
• Reviewing financial reports and helping the Board understand key financial trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Providing strategic advice on organizational priorities, growth, and sustainability.
• Supporting discussions around fundraising strategy, donor engagement, and community partnerships.
• Providing advice and perspective to the Executive Director, as appropriate.
• Contributing to Board discussions on governance, risk management, budgeting, and long-term planning.
• Acting as an ambassador for Autism Dog Services and its mission.

Skills and Experience

We are especially interested in candidates with experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Financial analysis, accounting, investment, banking, corporate finance, or related fields.
• Strategic planning or business leadership.
• Fundraising strategy, donor development, sponsorships, or non-profit revenue generation.
• Budgeting, forecasting, risk management, or financial oversight.
• Executive advisory, organizational leadership, or operations.
• Prior Board or governance experience.

Prior non-profit Board experience is welcome but not required.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate will be someone who:

• Has a genuine passion for helping individuals with autism and other developmental disorders and their families.
• Believes in the value of service dogs as a source of safety, support, community integration and independence.
• Brings sound judgment, financial acumen, and strategic thinking.
• Is collaborative, constructive, and willing to engage in meaningful Board discussions.
• Can provide practical advice while respecting the distinction between Board governance and day-to-day management.
• Is comfortable participating in remote meetings and reviewing materials in advance.
• Is willing to support fundraising efforts through ideas, introductions, or strategic guidance.

There is no formal fundraising requirement for this role. However, experience, ideas, or networks that could help support fundraising would be valuable.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit a brief expression of interest and resume/CV by July 1, 2026 to:

James Barnby
Chairman of the Board
james@autismdogservices.com

Please include a short note outlining your interest in Autism Dog Services and the skills or experience you would bring to the Board.