Volunteer Board Member

Description:

Mary Centre is a nonprofit organization founded through the advocacy of Catholic families who envisioned a dignified, inclusive future for their children with developmental disabilities. Guided by compassion, faith, and social justice, Mary Centre was established in 1988 to support adults with developmental disabilities through community group living, respite, and outreach services grounded in the values of dignity, inclusion, and community integration.

Inspired by the words and work of Sister Mary Hamilton, Monsignor Sam Bianco, and courageous families like those of Isobel Ricci and Ellen Ballantyne, Mary Centre today continues its mission to create compassionate homes and inclusive communities where individuals are empowered to live meaningful lives.

Industry: Developmental Services / Nonprofit Organization Management / Community Health and Inclusion

Position: Volunteer Board Member (Advocacy, Fundraising, or Governance Expertise)

Board Function: Governance, Community Engagement, Strategic Oversight

Board Member Description:

Mary Centre is seeking passionate, community-driven individuals to join our Board of Directors. As we look ahead to the future, we welcome leaders who can help us grow our impact while preserving the values that founded our organization—dignity, inclusion, and compassionate care.

Board members typically serve a [2- or 3-year] term with the possibility of renewal. New members are provided with orientation and ongoing support to help them succeed in their governance role.

Responsibilities include:

• Upholding Mary Centre’s mission to support individuals with developmental disabilities through community group living, day, and respite programs.
• Attending and actively participating in board meetings (approx. 9 per year on the last Tuesday of the month). A combination of in-person and virtual meetings
• Contributing to at least one board committee or task force.
• Reviewing financial statements and strategic materials in advance of meetings.
• Acting as an ambassador and advocate for Mary Centre within your networks.
• Supporting fundraising initiatives and helping identify opportunities for growth.
• Engaging in learning opportunities related to disability inclusion and nonprofit governance.
• Supporting Mary Centre’s mission through advocacy with key partners and stakeholders, including the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services and Catholic Charities, when needed.

We are especially seeking individuals with expertise in:

• Fundraising and donor relations
• Advocacy and policy engagement
• Legal, financial, or nonprofit governance
• Community health, housing, or social services
• Communications and strategic planning
• Government relations

Our Commitment to Equity and Inclusion

Mary Centre recognizes that its strength lies in the diverse voices of its leadership. We welcome applications from individuals with lived experience in disability, from Indigenous, Black, and racialized communities, 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, and those with deep roots in the Greater Toronto Area’s faith and community networks.