Public Call for Board of Trustees Nominations

Hope for Refugees International (HRI) is seeking reputable individuals to join our pioneer Board of Trustees.

HRI is a recently established grassroots and humanitarian founded and led by Black African refugees and gender-diverse individuals, committed to extending Compassion, Hope, and Opportunity to those displaced by conflict, persecution, and hardship in Canada and globally.

Driven by an unwavering belief in humanity, human rights, equity, inclusion, and diversity, HRI aims to break down barriers and create pathways for a brighter future for refugees (including LGBTQ+ refugees, women, girls, men, youth and families) and the world’s most vulnerable populations. We draw inspiration from the stories of survival, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of refugees who have been forced to flee their homes.

Vision

Our vision is to create a world where refugees and displaced persons are not defined by their circumstances but are empowered to rebuild their lives, where humanity, dignity, and equality prevail, and where every individual has the opportunity to flourish.

Mission

Through our unwavering commitment to humanity, we strive to create a world where every refugee can rebuild their life with dignity, and where our collective compassion knows no borders.

Inspired by the resilience and untapped potential of refugees who have faced unimaginable challenges, we are dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Our mandate encompasses improving access to immigration and newcomer services, enhancing access to healthcare including Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights, achieving gender equality, combating poverty and inequality, and advancing social justice.

As we embark on this crucial journey, we are inviting individuals with diverse backgrounds, expertise, and a passion for humanitarian and community causes to join our Board of Trustees. We are seeking individuals who are committed to upholding our values and contributing their skills and knowledge to guide HRI in achieving its mission.

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Roles of the Board of Trustees (The Board)

Board of Trustee Members of Hope for Refugees (HRI) play crucial roles in guiding HRI towards achieving its mission and goals. Here are some of the roles and responsibilities of the Board of Trustees.

  1. Governance: The Board of Trustee Members are responsible for establishing and upholding the Hope for Refugee’s mission, vision, and values. The board will set strategic goals, policies, and priorities to ensure HRI’s long-term success.
  2. Financial Oversight: The Board of Trustee Members will be responsible for overseeing HRI’s financial health by approving budgets, financial reports, and audits. The board will ensure that the HRI operates within its budget and complies with financial regulations.
  3. Fundraising: Board of Trustee Members will actively participate in fundraising efforts by contributing financially, leveraging their networks to solicit donations, and assisting with grant applications and fundraising events.
  4. Legal and Ethical Compliance: Board of Trustee Members will ensure that the HRI operates in compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards. The board will uphold HRI’s integrity and reputation by adhering to ethical principles and transparency.
  5. Strategic Planning: The Board of Trustee Members will engage in strategic planning to identify growth opportunities, assess risks, and adapt to changing circumstances. The board will provide guidance and oversight to executive leadership in implementing strategic initiatives.
  6. Board Development: The Board of Trustee Members will participate in board and executive recruitment, orientation, and training activities to ensure a diverse and effective board composition. The board will evaluate board performance and succession planning to maintain continuity of leadership.
  7. Community Engagement: The Board will serve as ambassadors of HRI, representing our interests to the community, stakeholders, and the public. The board will cultivate relationships with donors, partners, and other supporters to advance the organization’s mission.
  8. Risk Management: Board of Trustee Members will participate in identifying and mitigating risks that may impact the HRI’s operations, reputation, or financial stability. The board will oversee the development of risk management policies and procedures to minimize potential threats.
  9. Evaluation and Accountability: The Board of Trustee Members will monitor the organization’s performance against established goals and objectives. The board will conduct regular evaluations of executive leadership, programs, and overall effectiveness to ensure accountability and continuous improvement.
  10. Mission Advocacy: The Board of Trustee Members will advocate for Hope for Refugees’s mission and causes, raising awareness about relevant issues and promoting social change. Board of Trustee Members will leverage their expertise and influence to advance HRI’s advocacy efforts and impact.

Terms for Membership, Services and Engagement 

  1. Term Length: Each Board of Trustee Member shall serve a term of two years, with the option to renew for two additional terms upon re-election.
  2. Attendance: Board of Trustee Members are expected to attend all board meetings, typically held Three times a year, either in person or virtually. Excessive absences without valid reasons may result in removal from the board.
  3. Contribution: Board of Trustee Members are expected to actively contribute their expertise, time, and resources to further the mission and objectives of Hope for Refugees.
  4. Conflicts of Interest: Board of Trustee Members must disclose any potential conflicts of interest and refrain from participating in discussions or decisions where they have a personal or financial interest.
  5. Confidentiality: Board of Trustee Members must maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive information discussed during board meetings and refrain from disclosing such information without proper authorization.
  6. Fiduciary Responsibility: Board of Trustee Members have a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of Hope for Refugees International and its stakeholders, including donors, beneficiaries, and the public.
  7. Board Sub-Committee Participation: Board of Trustee Members may be assigned to serve on Board Sub-committees or task forces established by the board to address specific issues or initiatives.
  8. Fundraising: Board of Trustee Members are expected to support fundraising efforts through personal donations, solicitation of donations from others, and participation in fundraising events.
  9. Evaluation and Assessment: Board of Trustee Members will participate in periodic evaluations of the board’s performance, as well as assessments of individual trustee performance and effectiveness.
  10. Resignation and Removal: Board of Trustee Members may resign from their position by providing written notice to the board two months in advance. Removal of a trustee may occur for reasons such as misconduct, negligence of duties, or inability to fulfill responsibilities.
  11. Succession Planning: The Board of Trustees will establish procedures for succession planning to ensure a smooth transition of leadership and continuity of governance.
  12. Legal and Ethical Compliance: Board of Trustee Members must comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards governing nonprofit organizations in Canada and adhere to the Hope for Refugee’s code of conduct.

These terms are subject to review and revision by the Board of Trustees as needed to ensure alignment with the organization’s mission and values.

Eligibility Criteria for HRI’s Board of Trustees Membership

Who Can Apply

We are looking for;

  • Individuals who are committed to the mission and values of (HRI), including a strong commitment to extending compassion, hope, and opportunity to displaced individuals, and advancing social justice.
  • Individuals who value diversity and inclusion, with a commitment to promoting equity and representing the diverse perspectives and experiences of refugee communities. While membership is open to all, individuals who identify as Black, and other racialized individuals who are refugees or have a history of being refugees are strongly encouraged to apply. Women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and persons living with Disability are highly encouraged to apply.
  • Individuals possessing relevant expertise, skills, and experience in areas such as nonprofit governance, human rights advocacy (refugee, gender equality, SRHR, women’s rights, climate change activists), fundraising, financial management, legal compliance, program development, or other relevant fields.
  • Individuals to demonstrate strong leadership qualities, strategic thinking, and a visionary approach to guiding HRI’s strategic direction and growth while ensuring accountability and transparency.
  • Individuals with a wide network of connections and relationships that can contribute to HRI’s mission and goals, including potential partnerships, funding opportunities, and access to resources.
  • Individuals willing to commit time, energy, and resources to actively participate in board meetings (3 board meetings a year), committee work, fundraising efforts, and other responsibilities as required, with a clear understanding of the time commitment involved.
  • Individuals who Uphold high ethical standards, integrity, and a commitment to ethical fundraising, financial management, and governance practices, by legal and regulatory requirements
  • Individuals who can work collaboratively as part of a diverse team, respecting different perspectives, contributing constructively to discussions, and supporting collective decision-making processes for the benefit of HRI and its stakeholders.

How to Apply 

If you are passionate about making a meaningful impact in the lives of refugees and marginalized populations, we encourage you to apply to join our Board of Trustees. 

While membership is open to all, individuals who identify as Black, and other racialized individuals who are refugees or have a history of being refugees are strongly encouraged to apply. Women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and persons living with Disability are highly encouraged to apply.

To apply or nominate someone, please send a letter of interest and a resume or biography outlining your qualifications and experience to info@hopeforrefugees.org by April 20th, 2024.

Together, let’s work towards a world where compassion, hope, and opportunity are accessible to all.