Passionate about advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights in Canada and globally? Looking for a rewarding volunteer experience on a board? Do you have, or want to gain, organizational governance experience? If so, you might be interested in joining Action Canada’s Board of Directors!
Join Action Canada’s Board of Directors to Advance Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights
Action Canada for Sexual Health & Rights is a progressive, pro-choice, human rights-based charitable organization committed to advancing and upholding sexual and reproductive health and rights in Canada and globally. We envision a world where every person has full control over, and is able to decide freely upon, all matters related to their sexuality, reproduction, and gender, including their reproductive and sexual health. We work to advance and uphold reproductive and sexual rights and health, in Canada and globally.
Building on the 50-year legacy of the organizations that formed Action Canada, we provide direct support, referrals, and information to the people who need it most; partner with groups and organizations on a range of campaigns using a collaborative, movement-building approach; and work with decision-makers to advance progressive policies on access to abortion, stigma-free healthcare, gender equality, 2SLGBTQ rights, sex workers’ rights, and inclusive sex-ed. To learn more, visit actioncanadashr.org.
The Role of the Board
Action Canada is a registered charitable organization governed by a Board of Directors. The Board is comprised of members from across Canada, who bring a wide range of professional and personal experiences to the organization. It is a policy-governance Board, whose work focuses on setting strategic direction for the organization, overseeing organizational finances, and developing high-level policy. Board members also participate in one or more committees or working groups.
The full Board meets about four times a year, with Committees (Finance, Executive, ARAO, Policy) meeting monthly. Directors are elected for a two-year term and are eligible for re-election for up to five consecutive terms.
What We Are Looking for in a Board Member
We welcome applications from community members passionate about national and global sexual and reproductive rights, who want a new opportunity to lead with a dynamic organization. We seek applicants who will increase the Board’s diversity of viewpoints and lived experiences. We especially encourage applicants with expertise and knowledge in any of the following areas to apply:
- Strategic Thinking: provide long-term vision and direction for the organization.
- Financial Acumen: understand financial statements, budgets, and financial risks to ensure effective financial oversight.
- Legal and Union Relations: understand legal frameworks for non-profit organizations, and understand the particulars of a unionized environment.
- Risk Management: identify and evaluate risks facing the organization and implement appropriate risk mitigation strategies.
- Anti-Oppressive and Anti-Racist Leadership: demonstrate a commitment to anti-racism and anti-oppression within the organization.
- Compliance: understand and ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and board governance standards.
- Board Dynamics: contribute to effective board dynamics, including active participation, constructive debate, and collaboration.
- Performance Evaluation: participate in board and executive performance evaluations to ensure accountability and continuous improvement.
- Succession Planning: develop and implement robust succession plans for key leadership positions within the organization.
- Continuous Learning: commit to ongoing learning and professional development to stay updated on emerging governance best practices and industry trends.
Action Canada is committed to working within an anti-racism and anti-oppression framework; as such, preference will be given to candidates that will strengthen our Board's diversity, values, depth, and competencies. We encourage applications from
- People from marginalized communities, including but not limited to Black, Indigenous, and racialized people, 2SLGBTQIA people, and people with disabilities;
- People residing in rural, remote; or Northern areas in Canada;
- People who are emerging leaders.
How to Apply
If you are interested in applying or have questions, please send your letter of interest and resume to [email protected] with “Board - [Your Last Name]” in the subject line by Friday, July 14, 2023. Please let us know if you require accommodations at any stage of the recruitment process. Applicants selected for an interview will be contacted by Friday, July 28, 2023.