Join the Board
A different kind of board experience
Community Volunteer Connections is guided by a Board of Directors, as set out in our bylaws, who help shape our direction. Each member of the Board has an equal vote in any proceedings of the Board.
We don’t expect people to arrive with all the answers or even prior board experience. What matters most is curiosity, care for community, and a willingness to contribute thoughtfully.
If you’re wondering whether this might be a fit, the best next step is simply a conversation.
Who we welcome
We welcome people with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, lived experiences, and professional skills. Strong boards are built from different ways of experiencing and understanding the world.
Experience in areas like these can be especially helpful:
- volunteerism and community engagement
- nonprofit leadership or governance
- finance or accounting
- human resources
- legal or policy work
- fundraising
- communications or marketing
Just as important as professional experience are lived experience, community connection, and a willingness to learn and participate.
Each year we evaluate the mix of skills and experience we need on our board and welcome newcomers, youth, and marginalized individuals to apply.
Orientation and ongoing support are provided to help all board members feel confident in the role.
What the board does
The Board of Directors helps guide the organization’s mission and long-term sustainability.
Board members support Community Volunteer Connections by:
- helping shape strategic priorities
- reviewing organizational performance
- overseeing financial health and accountability
- contributing to thoughtful discussion and decision-making
- acting as ambassadors for volunteerism in the community
Board service is about stewardship and ensuring the organization remains strong, responsive, and aligned with its mission.
Time commitment
The board meets approximately six times per year in scheduled online meetings (January, March, May, July, September, and November).
In addition, there is one annual in-person strategic planning session and an Annual General Meeting.
Most meetings are held online, and preparation materials are shared in advance to support meaningful participation.
What to expect if you’re interested
There is no formal application at this stage. If the role sparks your interest, the next step is a short, informal conversation. This is simply a chance to:
- learn more about the organization and the board
- ask questions
- explore whether it feels like a good fit on both sides
Start the conversation
Start the conversation to help us connect with you:
Meet our 2026 elected board
Cori Hansen; Vice Chair – Vice President | Governance and Corporate Affairs. Corporate Governance leader.
Elsie Decena; Director – Community Engagement Coordinator | ISS of BC.
Kam Ahmed; Treasurer – Chief Financial Officer | Finance and compliance executive, governance, process improvement, automation and risk management.
Mark Malik; Director – Mentor, Consultant, Advisor, Principal | International business leader building and advising organizations across Europe, North and Latin America.
Peyman Showleh; Secretary – Administrative Coordinator | Federation of Post-Secondary Educators of BC
Saira Yasmin Sagorika; Director – Human Resource Specialist | Unionized healthcare environments, labour relations, disability management, recruitment and compliance.
Samiya Rashmi Bishton; Chair – Youth Program Leader | Association of Neighbourhood houses of BC
Uygar Gunay; Director – Senior Software Engineer | Technical Safety BC