Volunteer Board Member

Invitation for New Board Members

Join Our Board of Directors: Recruitment for September 2026

Compass Community Services is a community-based non-profit organization located in Guelph, Ontario. We provide mental health and therapy services, workplace wellness, developmental services, and telephone and crisis support programs to individuals of all ages, couples, and families in Guelph, Wellington County, as well as acting as a network provider on the national 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline. Our mission is rooted in people, inclusion, collaboration, and accountability: our deep commitment to the communities we serve.

We are seeking passionately dedicated community members to serve on our Board of Directors. Board members play a vital role in providing strategic oversight, governance, and guidance to help Compass fulfill its mission and serve our community effectively.

Time Commitment & Meeting Schedule

Board members commit to 4+ hours per month preparing for and attending meetings and committees, plus time attending occasional agency or community events, including:

• Full Board Meetings held in-person 5:30 – 7:30 pm on the third Monday in September, November, March, and June, and via Teams in January
• Board Committee Meetings held in the evening on the third Monday of alternating months
• Annual General Meeting
• Occasional community or agency event, based on availability

Board members commit to a minimum two-year term, renewable to a maximum of three consecutive terms.

Travel expenses and meals are provided. Governance training available.

Areas of Expertise Sought

We are particularly interested in candidates who bring experience or expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Finance: Budgeting, financial oversight, accounting, or audit experience
• Governance: Knowledge of modified Carver Policy Governance model, board leadership, policy development, or legal/regulatory knowledge
• Fundraising: Donor relations, grant writing, fund development, or philanthropy
• HR/People & Culture: Equity, diversity, and inclusion, compensation, pay equity, workforce sustainability
• Advocacy: Community advocacy, government relations, or public policy
• Community Services: Direct service delivery, social work, or health and human services

Lived Experience: Personal experience as someone who has accessed services similar to those offered by Compass, or as a family member or caregiver of a service user

Why Join Compass?

At Compass, board members work alongside a committed senior team to shape the strategic direction of an organization that serves thousands of people across Wellington County and beyond. Your expertise and perspective will help ensure Compass remains accountable, resilient, and community-rooted for years to come.

• Make a meaningful impact: Contribute your skills, experience, and perspective to advance Compass's mission and create positive change in the communities we serve.
• Lead at the governance level: Apply your expertise in strategic planning, financial oversight, and policy to help Compass grow and fulfill its mandate.
• Build community connections: Join a network of leaders, professionals, and stakeholders who share a commitment to accessible, equitable community services.
• Give back with purpose: Use what you know to support an organization that matters, and help shape its direction for years to come.

We welcome applications from individuals who reflect the diverse communities we serve and individuals of all backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences, including but not limited to Indigenous peoples, racialized individuals, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, and newcomers to Canada. Compass Community Services is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion on our Board.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume combined into a single document to the Governance Nominating Committee at: CompassBoardApps@compasscs.org or apply via the posting on one of our online channels. In your cover letter, please describe your interest in joining the Board and how your experience relates to the areas of expertise listed above.

Application Deadline: July 10, 2026

We thank all applicants for their interest in this position and regret that we can contact only those being invited for an interview.

AI-enabled tools may be used to support parts of the recruitment process, such as application screening or interview scheduling. All hiring decisions are made by human reviewers.

We are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected, supported, and empowered to thrive. In accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code, Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the agency’s Accommodation Policy, accommodation is available upon request throughout the recruitment process.

In accordance with Ontario legislation, this posting and application materials are retained for a minimum of three years.