Who is the Coordinating Collective?
The Coordinating Collective (CC) is the governing body for the West Kootenay Women’s Association (WKWA) which operates the Nelson Women’s Centre. The board of directors, together with appointed staff members, form the CC.
Directors are elected by the WKWA membership at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) or appointed by the Board between AGM’s to fill vacancies.
The CC makes decisions regarding governance, human resources, finances, membership, strategic planning, community relations, fundraising, facilities issues, etc. The CC operates by consensus based decision making.
Interested in Joining the Board?
We are seeking dynamic and passionate individuals to join the Board at the West Kootenay Women’s Association (WKWA). This is an exciting opportunity to be a crucial part of growing one of Nelson’s most established and vital non-profits. WKWA operates the oldest rural Women’s Centre in Canada, the Nelson & District Women’s Centre. We are committed to a journey of inclusion, meeting our community’s evolving needs, and delivering world-class programming.
We are looking for a dedicated individual willing to commit to a 2-year board term to ensure continuity and sustained impact. If you are innovative, adaptive, collaborative, and have the passion and skills to help us achieve our goals, we would love to hear from you.
Here’s what we hope is true about you:
- Committed to advancing our mission of empowering women and gender diverse individuals while advocating for gender equality.
- Previous board or non-profit experience is highly appreciated.
- Proven track record of leadership and community involvement.
- Able to bring diverse perspectives and innovative ideas to our team.
- Possess foundational financial expertise (budget management, treasury, bookkeeping, forecasting, etc.).
- Effective communicator and skilled meeting facilitator, with high emotional intelligence and the ability to foster collaboration.
- Organizational skills and responsiveness via email are key.
- Proficient with technology such as Google Drive, Gmail, Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Forms.
- Experience in change management, restructuring, transformation, or process development.
- Able to attend meetings in person or virtually via Zoom.
- Reside in the West Kootenay Region.
General Information about being on the Board (Terms of Reference):
WKWA relies on the Coordinating Collective (CC) — comprised of Board and Staff — to guide and oversee the organization. The Board is responsible for the highest level of decision-making and legal authority within WKWA and is ultimately accountable for the organization’s resources and activities. Specific Board responsibilities include:
- Setting the strategic direction and goals of the organization.
- Overseeing the hiring, performance, and management of the Executive Director.
- Monitoring WKWA activities to ensure they align with its values.
- Articulating and communicating the organization’s vision to the community.
- Identifying and mitigating risks.
- Ensuring funding is secured and overseeing the Executive Director’s duties.
- Establishing and overseeing policies and procedures for good governance.
- Reviewing and accepting annual budgets and regular financial statements.
- Ensuring legal compliance with all relevant statutes and regulations.
To minimize board liability, the CC is responsible for:
- Notifying the membership of proposed bylaw changes.
- Completing annual incorporation filing requirements (federal and provincial).
- Approving and annually reviewing policies and procedures.
- Ensuring that membership approves annual audited financial statements.
- Securing adequate insurance.
- Ensuring written staff and committee reports are submitted.
- Board Members must avoid conflicts of interest & disclose any potential conflicts immediately, maintain confidentiality, and represent WKWA positively to the public.
Membership Requirement:
Board members must purchase a WKWA membership to sit on the Board of Directors. Membership can be purchased through Canada Helps, with the link available on our website.
Commitment:
Board members are elected for a two-year term, and the CC meets monthly on the fourth Tuesday from 6:00–7:30 pm. On average, members dedicate approximately five to 12 hours per month to meetings, committee work, and ad hoc projects.
Apply Today:
If you’re ready to make a difference, grow your skills, and join a passionate team dedicated to social change, we encourage you to apply! We especially welcome applicants who reflect the diversity of our community.
If you have questions email ed@nelsonwomenscentre.com.
“The Women’s Centre is my home away from home. It’s a place where you can be yourself!” –Anonymous Member&Volunteer 2020