The Ottawa Community Foundation is a not-for-profit organization that has been proudly serving the Ottawa community since 1987. It works with donors, other charitable organizations, and community partners to support the needs of the community. The Foundation connects generous donors with causes that matter, enabling their contributions to enhance the quality of life for all in the National Capital Region. The Foundation provides an efficient and inclusive giving platform that offers dependable asset management and governance, with an excellent track record of return on investments. Through donor advised grants, the Community Grants Program, and other initiatives, the Foundation disburses $12-15 million to hundreds of charities and non-profits in Ottawa every year. The Foundation’s vision is to create a healthy, inclusive, environmentally balanced, culturally, and economically vibrant city by leveraging philanthropic resources to improve the well-being of the community.

Call for Board Director Nominations

The Ottawa Community Foundation is seeking four nominees to join the Board of Directors beginning in June 2024.

Board Director Responsibilities

Board Directors play a pivotal role in the governance of the Ottawa Community Foundation by shaping its strategic direction and providing oversight of its overall management and operations, including its fundraising and investment activities.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Strategic Oversight: Board Directors provide strategic guidance to the Foundation, ensuring that its activities align with the Foundation’s mission and respond to the evolving needs of the Ottawa community.
  • Financial Stewardship: Board Directors ensure the responsible management of the Foundation’s assets and financial resources. This includes overseeing budgeting, investment strategy, financial management, and risk management.
  • Governance and Compliance: Board Directors ensure that the Foundation adheres to legal and ethical standards, maintaining transparency and accountability in its operations.
  • Community Engagement and Advocacy: As representatives of the Ottawa Community Foundation, Board Directors actively engage with the community, advocating for the Foundation’s mission and, as appropriate, building partnerships to enhance its impact.
  • Fundraising and Resource Development: Board Directors play a key role in resource mobilization, leveraging their networks and influence to secure funding and other resources crucial for the Foundation’s work.

Board Director Nominee Qualifications

Board Experience

The following are amongst the board experience factors that are sought:

  • Knowledge and experience of governance practices in the private and/or not-for-profit sectors.
  • Experience in the charitable or not-for-profit sector (e.g. health care, social services, housing, etc.).
  • Experience with philanthropic giving and management of investments.
  • Communications and marketing experience.

Asset Qualifications

  • Representative of the diversity found in the Ottawa community and aligned with the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion.
  • Knowledgeable about the local charitable and non-profit sector and the role the sector plays in the overall health of the Ottawa community.
  • Strategic thinkers able to contribute to effective decision-making.
  • Willingness to advocate, where appropriate, to the Foundation’s external networks and circles of influence.
  • Collaborative and able to work in partnership.
  • Bilingual

Expectations of Board Directors

We are seeking individuals who are deeply committed to the community and to the Board member role. Key expectations of Board Directors are:

  • Time Commitment: Board Directors are expected to dedicate enough time to attend meetings, participate in Committee work, and be involved in strategic initiatives. (The Board holds five meetings annually, and each Committee holds four meetings annually.)
  • Integrity and Ethical Leadership: Uphold the highest standards of integrity and provide ethical leadership.
  • Diversity and Inclusion: Embrace diversity and promote inclusiveness in all Board and Foundation activities.
  • Community Engagement: A genuine interest in community development and a willingness to engage with various stakeholders in Ottawa, where appropriate.

Application Submission

Inquiries and expressions of interest should be submitted to lzappio@ocf-fco.ca. Please include a current CV and a short statement on why you are interested in this opportunity.