Become a Board Member
Make a Difference
Do you have a passion for social issues? Have you, a family member or friend been personally affected by mental health challenges? Do you want to make a difference in the lives of those living with mental illness? If so, our board could be a great opportunity for you!
NISA’s executive director is available to speak to you about the expectations and commitments required of Board Members. The Board’s nominating committee will review applications; applicants may be asked to attend a meeting to discuss their interests further. Indigenous and francophone applications will be prioritized.
Click here to download an application form
As you consider this opportunity, please familiarize yourself with these expectations:
As a Board Member:
1. I will interpret the organization’s work and values to the community, and promote the organization.
2. I will attend at least 75% of board meetings (held monthly at 5pm on the second Thursday of each month), committee meetings, and special events. If I cannot attend, I will make sure that I inform the Executive Director before the meeting.
3. I will actively participate in one or more fundraising activities per year.
4. I will actively participate in one or more standing committees per year.
5. I will act in the best interests of the organization, and excuse myself from discussions and votes where I have a conflict of interest.
6. I will be accountable to the major legal responsibilities of serving on a board, including and especially the fiduciary role.
7. I will stay informed about what’s going on in the organization. I will ask questions and request information. I will participate in and take responsibility for making decisions on issues, policies and other board matters.
8. I will work in good faith with staff and other board members as partners towards achievement of our goals.
From NISA:
1. I will receive an orientation to the board by the Executive Director and a current member of the Board of Directors.
2. I will be sent, without request, quarterly financial reports and an update of organizational activities that allow meto act as a “prudent person” in my legal responsibilities as a board member.
3. Opportunities will be offered to me to discuss with the Executive Director and the Board President the organization’s programs, goals, activities, and status; additionally, I can request such opportunities.
4. The organization will help me perform my duties by keeping me informed about issues in mental health, recovery-focused and peer support communities of practice in which we are working, and by offering me opportunities for professional development as a board member.
5. Board members and the Executive Director will respond in a straightforward fashion to questions I have that I feel are necessary to carry out my fiscal, legal and moral responsibilities to this organization. Board members and the Executive Director will work in good faith with me towards achievement of our goals.
6. If the organization does not fulfill its commitments to me, I can call on the Board President and Executive Director to discuss these responsibilities.