Volunteer Board Member (Unpaid) at the Mennonite New Life Centre of Toronto

Volunteer Board Member at the Mennonite New Life Centre of Toronto (Unpaid)

Duration of Term: 2 years, renewable for max. 2 periods.

The Mennonite New Life Centre of Toronto (MNLCT) has been providing newcomers and immigrants of all ages and gender identities with the tools and resources needed to prosper socially, economically, and healthfully. We aim to bring together community engagement and services, working with newcomers to reduce insecurity and reach integration, strengthen voices, and increase social equality. 

The Board of Directors of MNLCT provides strategic leadership for the organization by using responsible, ethical, and legal governance and financial management policies, while ensuring that MNLCT has adequate resources to further its mission. 

This is a Governance Board of Directors, that delegates the operational responsibilities to the Executive Director and staff.

Roles and responsibilities of a Board Member:

Mission: Understand and support MNLCT’s mission, policies, programs, and needs, as well as the role of the Mennonite Church in the foundation, culture and values of the organization. Supports the organization’s mission to facilitate newcomer settlement and integration through holistic services and community engagement, carried out within a gender justice and anti-oppression framework.

Governance: Adhere to MNLCT’s bylaws and Board Governance Policies.

Oversight: Actively participate in the governance of MNLCT by providing strategic direction, setting policies, and overseeing its activities to ensure alignment with the mission and vision.

Fiduciary Duty: Uphold the MNLCT's best interests and exercise fiduciary responsibility by acting prudently and in good faith, with honesty, integrity, and transparency.

Strategic Planning: Contribute to the development and implementation of MNLCT's strategic plan, including setting goals, defining priorities, and evaluating progress towards achieving the mission.

Financial Oversight: Review and approve the annual budget, financial reports, and audit findings to ensure fiscal responsibility, transparency, and compliance with financial regulations.

Fundraising and Resource Development: Support fundraising efforts by identifying potential donors, cultivating relationships, and advocating for MNLCT's mission to secure financial support and resources.

Community Engagement: Serve as ambassadors for MNLCT within the community, promoting its mission, programs, and impact to stakeholders, partners, and the public.

Board Meetings and Committees: Attend and actively participate in the Annual General Meeting AGM, at least 80% of board meetings, committee meetings, other relevant gatherings and special events, offering insights, expertise, and constructive feedback. Read all materials provided by staff and show up prepared for the meeting.

Board Development: Participate in board orientation, training, and evaluation processes to enhance individual and collective board effectiveness and governance practices. Engage in learning opportunities to better understand the newcomer community that MNLCT serves.

Legal and Ethical Compliance: Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards, including those related to nonprofit governance, financial management, and reporting.

Risk Management: Identify and assess risks to the MNLCT's operations, reputation, and mission, and work collaboratively to develop and implement risk mitigation strategies.

Evaluation and Accountability: Evaluate the performance of the Executive Director and the Executive team and provide feedback, support, and guidance as necessary to ensure organizational effectiveness and accountability.

Conflict Resolution: Address conflicts of interest, disagreements, or other challenges that may arise within the board or in the organization in a constructive and respectful manner, prioritizing the best interests of MNLCT.

Maintaining Confidentiality: Maintain and protect the confidentiality of information related to Board meetings, discussions, and documents, respecting the sensitive nature of the information shared and upholding the trust of fellow Board members and stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Commitment to MNLCT’s mission

• Leadership Experience in the nonprofit sector, government sector, business or other related fields

• Strategic thinking and the ability to provide clear and informed direction for the organization's activities

• Willingness to devote knowledge, energy and time to the organization, including attending board meetings, committee membership and participating in events and activities.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Experience in fundraising, donor relations, finance and campaign management is an asset.

By fulfilling the above roles and responsibilities, Board Members contribute to the effective governance and sustainability of the Mennonite New Life Centre, ensuring that it continues to fulfill its mission of supporting and empowering newcomers in their integration journey.

• Please note, this is an UNPAID Volunteer position.

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