Invitation to join the Board of Director
Volunteer Types: Accounting and Finance, Communications and Marketing, Human rights, Legal/Advocacy, Writing, Board Leadership
Organization types: Community and Social Services
Long term (6 months to a year)
Application Deadline: January 30, 2024
Posted on:
Description

About the Social Planning Council of Ottawa (SPCO).

Since 1928, the Social Planning Council of Ottawa (SPCO) has been a catalyst for sustainable social and economic development in Ottawa. We are a non-partisan, not-for-profit, charitable organization run by an elected Board of Directors.
Our mission is to provide residents of Ottawa with the means to exercise informed leadership on issues affecting their social and economic well-being. Today, the SPCO uses modern research and communication methods and works with Ottawa’s social agencies, concerned residents and decision-makers to understand and advocate the social needs of our city. For several years we have applied our core services around four priority action areas: Access to Basics, Creating Inclusion, Support to the Voluntary Sector, and Community Economic Development.

Invitation to join the Board of Director

Are you interested in joining an organization that makes a lasting impact in our community? Are you passionate about social justice and equity? Are you willing to translate your passion into action? If so, we’d like to meet you.
SPCO is currently recruiting volunteers to join our 12-member board of directors.
The Board of Directors at the SPCO play a crucial role in guiding the organization towards achieving its mission. Generally, their responsibilities include:
1. Strategic Oversight: Providing strategic direction to ensure the SPCO’s activities align with our mission and meet the community’s evolving needs.
2. Financial Stewardship: Overseeing the responsible management of the SPCO’s assets and financial resources, including budgeting, investment strategy, and risk management.
3. Governance and Compliance: Ensuring the SPCO adheres to legal, ethical standards, and
maintains transparency and accountability.
4. Community Engagement and Advocacy: Engaging with the Ottawa community to advocate for the SPCO’s mission and building partnerships to enhance our impact.
5. Fundraising and Resource Development: Mobilizing resources by leveraging networks and influence to secure funding and other resources essential for the SPCO’s initiatives.

We are seeking volunteer board members who are passionate about community development and capacity building, and who are willing to dedicate a minimum of 10 hours per month to board work and committees or ad hoc working groups. Candidates should be deeply committed to the community and the role of a Board of Director.

We are particularly looking for people with the following background;

Skills in communications and marketing.
Strategic thinking and decision-making abilities.
Fundraising and Resources Development.
Human Resources.
Finance and Accounting.
Legal knowledge.
Community Engagement.
Willingness to advocate for the SPCO’s mission.
Ability to collaborate and work in partnership.
Organizational/Business Management.
If you are interested in this opportunity to make a meaningful difference, please, send an email with some information about you to the following email addresses:
[email protected] or [email protected]

How will this opportunity benefit the volunteer?
Joining the Board of Directors of the Social Planning Council of Ottawa (SPCO) offers volunteers a unique and rewarding opportunity to contribute to their community's well-being. Here's how this role can benefit a volunteer: Professional Development: Serving on the board provides valuable experience in strategic planning, governance, financial stewardship, and leadership. These skills are transferable and can enhance a volunteer's professional growth and career opportunities. Networking: Board members have the chance to connect with a diverse group of professionals, community leaders, and stakeholders. These relationships can be beneficial for personal and professional development, offering insights into different sectors and new perspectives on various issues. Impact on Community: Volunteers will play a critical role in shaping the direction of the SPCO, directly influencing initiatives that address social and economic challenges in Ottawa. This is a chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of residents and contribute to the overall health and vitality of the community. Advocacy and Education: Being part of the SPCO allows board members to advocate for important social issues and work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society. It's an opportunity to raise awareness and educate others about the needs of the community, as well as the potential solutions. Personal Fulfillment: Volunteering in a role that aligns with one's values and passions can be incredibly rewarding. It offers a sense of purpose and satisfaction in knowing that one's efforts are contributing to the greater good. Learning Opportunity: Board members gain insights into the operational aspects of a nonprofit organization, including fundraising, legal compliance, and community engagement. This knowledge is invaluable for anyone interested in the nonprofit sector, social work, or community development. Overall, joining the SPCO Board of Directors is a multifaceted opportunity that benefits the volunteer through professional growth, networking, community impact, advocacy, personal fulfillment, and educational experiences.
How will the organization benefit?
The Social Planning Council of Ottawa (SPCO) stands to gain significantly from the contributions of its Board of Directors in various ways: Strategic Direction: Board members bring diverse perspectives and expertise to the table, helping to shape the strategic direction of the organization. Their insights can lead to more effective planning and decision-making, ensuring the SPCO remains aligned with its mission and responsive to community needs. Governance and Oversight: Effective governance is crucial for any organization's success. The board ensures that the SPCO adheres to legal and ethical standards, maintains financial health, and operates transparently. This oversight builds trust among stakeholders, including donors, partners, and the communities served. Resource Mobilization: Board members often play a key role in fundraising and securing resources for the organization. Their networks and influence can open doors to new funding opportunities, partnerships, and other valuable resources that enable the SPCO to expand and enhance its services. Community Engagement: By advocating for the SPCO's mission and engaging with the community, board members help raise awareness about the organization's work and the social issues it addresses. This engagement can strengthen community ties, attract volunteers, and garner support for SPCO's initiatives. Capacity Building: The expertise and skills board members bring can enhance the organization's capacity in various areas, such as strategic planning, financial management, marketing, and human resources. This contributes to building a more robust and effective organization capable of achieving its goals. Innovation and Adaptation: Board members can introduce new ideas and perspectives that foster innovation within the organization. Their input can help the SPCO adapt to changing circumstances and identify new opportunities to serve the community better. Legitimacy and Credibility: A well-respected and competent Board of Directors enhances the SPCO's reputation, making it more credible in the eyes of funders, partners, and the broader community. This legitimacy is vital for the organization's ability to influence social policy and attract the support needed to fulfill its mission.
Volunteer location:
815 St Laurent Blvd, Ottawa ON K1K 3A7 Room #220

Contact

Reuben Nashali
@Social Planning Council of Ottawa
613-291-9528
Time it will take to contact applicants:
​1-6-days

Details

This position would be great for: Seniors (65+), Families, Groups, Adults
Number of Positions Available: 9
Good for people interested in: Accounting and Finance, Communications and Marketing, Human rights, Legal/Advocacy, Writing, Board Leadership
You will be helping with: Women, Men, Visible minorities or racialized persons, Persons with disabilities or medical conditions, Disadvantaged, Seniors, Youth (19-24 years), Youth (16-18 years), Youth (11-15 years), Children (0-10 years), Persons new to Canada

Volunteer Considerations

  • Vulnerable sector check required
  • This position can accommodate persons with a disability
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