Board Member

Start Proud aims to connect LGBTQ+ students with employers, while promoting the development of LGBTQ+ professionals, and celebrating the achievements and service of those in the community.

We facilitate the professional development of LGBTQ+ students as they transition from school to career in order to build a national network within the community. Our vision is to empower members of the LGBTQ+ community to be Canada’s leaders of tomorrow, where all institutions embrace inclusiveness within the workplace and diversity within the workforce.

The Board of Directors is the governing body of Start Proud. Its members provide direction and oversight to the entire organization. Board Members must protect and develop the values of the organization and are responsible for the effective governance of Start Proud. 

The Board of Directors provides strategic direction, governance, and oversight for Start Proud. As a Board Member, you will play a key role in guiding the organization’s growth, strengthening its impact across Canada, and supporting partnerships with employers committed to inclusion.

The ideal candidate understands and is committed to the goals, values, mission, and programs of the organization.

• Stays apprised of issues and trends that may affect the organization.

• Avoids any potential conflicts of interest.

• Understands and maintains confidentiality.

• Promotes and supports the organization.

• Shares their unique passions, knowledge, and experience for the advancement of the organization.

• Provide strategic guidance and oversight to support the organization’s mission, growth, and long-term sustainability

• Review and approve key organizational priorities, including strategy, annual plans, and budget

• Support fundraising efforts and play an active role in developing and maintaining sponsor relationships

• Contribute to Board effectiveness through active participation, committee involvement, and support for recruitment and succession planning. This includes attending monthly Board meetings, participating in at least one Board committee, and preparing for all meetings by reading necessary board materials.  

• Providing financial oversight, organizational health and key risks. This includes regularly reviewing financial statements and approving the organization’s budget

• Attend Start Proud events and represent the Board when engaging and connecting with key sponsors

• Support recruitment of officer positions including the appointment of the President, Executive Vice Presidents, Corporate Treasurer, and Corporate Secretary

• Oversee the performance and effectiveness of the executive team, including participation in leadership appointments and evaluations

• Support strong governance practices by upholding policies, ensuring compliance, and maintaining confidentiality and integrity

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

• Passionate about advancing 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion and equity.

• Experience in fundraising, partnerships, governance, strategy or nonprofit leadership is an asset.

• Demonstrate strong judgment, integrity, and strategic thinking.

• Comfortable contributing in a collaborative, volunteer Board environment

• Prior board experience is an asset but not required.

• Term: Two (2) years, elected at the Annual General Meeting. There are no restrictions on the number of times an individual can run for a Board position.

• Time Commitment: Approximately 10 hours per month, including meetings, committee work, and events

Please submit your resume via the link above. We thank all applicants for their interest; only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Candidates from the 2SLGBTQIA+ community or are otherwise marginalized on the grounds of gender expression, gender identity and/or sexual orientation are strongly encouraged to apply. Lived experience as a member of any equity-deserving community is considered a strong asset.

We’re committed to providing accommodations throughout the application, interview, and employment process. If you require an accommodation to be at your best, please let us know during the application process.