Board of Directors Description - Director 

Function 

Board members are responsible for determining and implementing policies and procedures to achieve the mission and mandate of Big Brothers Big Sisters Grey Bruce & West Simcoe.   

Role and Responsibilities 

• Understand and demonstrate a commitment to the organization’s mission and programs; 

• Be informed about agency policies and programs in order to support adherence to the National Standards as set out by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada; 

• Possess knowledge and skills in one or more areas of Board governance: policy, finance, programs, personnel, and advocacy; 

• Contribute skills and knowledge by participating actively in meetings and committee work; 

• Understand and maintain confidentiality; 

• Avoid any potential conflicts of interest; 

• Ensure the organization is complying with all legal and regulatory requirements; 

• Assist in fostering positive relationships among the Board, staff and community to support fulfillment of organizational mandate. 

• Serve as an ambassador for the organization;  

General Duties 

• Prepare for meetings by reading agendas, minutes, reports and other documentation required to actively participate in them; 

• Attend meetings regularly; 

• Be an active participant on at least one board committee; 

• Keep up to date with issues and trends that affect the organization; 

• Participate in the review of the Board’s structure, approve changes, and assist in bylaw amendments; 

• Participate in the recruitment of new board members and staff; 

• Support and participate in the evaluation of the board; 

• Get to know other committee members and build a collegial working relationship that contributes to consensus; 

• Assist in the recruitment of new volunteers for all positions in the agency; 

• Share in the oversight of staff including review and approval of employment contracts;

• Participate in fundraising for the organization and any events related thereto; 

• Participate in orientation, educational and strategic planning sessions;  

• Understand and monitor the organization’s financial affairs including review and approval of annual budgets; 

• Be available for unscheduled meetings and phone calls

Victim Services Bruce Grey Volunteer Crisis Responders work as part of a crisis team, will respond immediately to requests from emergency services to provide short term emotional support and practical assistance to victims of crime or tragic circumstance. 

Volunteer Qualifications

• Responsible
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to deal effectively with crisis situations
• Ability to commit to one year’s service
• Willing to submit personal references, provide a criminal record check and attend an interview
• Suitability to provide sensitive, emotionally safe and effective service to victims
• Valid driver’s license and own transportation
• Willing to complete minimum standards training and evaluation, attend ongoing meetings and   educational development opportunities
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of all issues surrounding calls for service to victims, information shared in volunteer training and information about the organization