About us:
Progressive Animal Welfare Services (PAWS) also known as PAWS Canada, is a volunteer-based charity organization whose mission includes subsidizing access to veterinary care, providing education for pet caregivers, and addressing critical issues such as animal suffering, overpopulation, and the unnecessary euthanasia or surrender of animals to shelters.
An essential aspect of our prevention model focuses on the reduction of human distress as our approach integrates prevention and human-focused interventions to create a sustainable impact. Our target is the well-being of both pet caregivers and their companion animals, recognizing the emotional and physical benefit of this mutual bond.
PAWS programs:
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Are directly accessible to applicants including in-crisis populations and agency representatives.
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Help prevent downstream costs and issues by reducing the load on animal shelters/rescues/control and the community impacts of unwanted births and spread of disease.
Summary:
We are currently seeking a compassionate, responsive, and detail-oriented Board of Directors Member to join our Working Board, where members actively contribute both leadership and hands-on support. This role is ideal for someone who genuinely cares about animal welfare and is committed to advancing our mission to keep families and pets together during times of crisis, while promoting the well-being of vulnerable animals and their owners.
As a member of our Working Board, you will not only participate in governance and strategic planning but also take on the interface with volunteers, planning and implementing operational tasks as needed—ranging from supporting key programs and fundraising efforts to engaging with the community and helping manage initiatives. Your input and involvement will directly impact our day-to-day operations and long-term success.
The ideal candidate will be organized, resilient, and proactive, with experience in leadership, customer service, social services, or community engagement. Strong communication skills, the ability to collaborate effectively, and comfort with rolling up your sleeves are essential. Familiarity with the Southwest Ontario area is preferred. This volunteer role requires an estimated commitment of 5 hours per week, with flexibility for some daytime, evening, and rare weekend availability to support both board and operational activities.
This is a voluntary, unpaid remote position.
Description:
Key Responsibilities
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Leadership
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Each Board Member actively leads a committee (Ee.g. Marketing, Programs, IT etc) and engages directly with our team of incredible volunteers.
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Take ownership of specific projects, tasks, or initiatives (e.g., event planning, education team, marketing, donor engagement).
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Bring your expertise and hands-on support in areas such as communications, finance, HR, programming, fundraising, etc.
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Serve on at least one committee or working group.
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Governance & Oversight
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Participate actively in monthly Board meetings (remotely)
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Help set and monitor the strategic direction of the organization
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Ensure legal and ethical integrity and accountability
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Review and approve annual budgets, reports, and key policies
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Support & Advocacy
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Act as an ambassador for the organization in the community
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Advocate for the mission and help expand our network and influence
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Support the Chair as needed with strategic counsel
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Fundraising & Resource Development
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Assist in spreading the message, securing support through introductions, and reaching out as an ambassador for PAWS.
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Attend and support key fundraising activities and donor engagement efforts if geographically applicable
Qualifications
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Commitment to the mission, vision, and values of PAWS
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Prior experience with nonprofit governance, leadership, or professional expertise in relevant fields (e.g., finance, legal, marketing, community engagement, fundraising, etc.)
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Willingness to commit time, energy, and resources to support the charity’s success
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Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
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Ability to work collaboratively and respectfully in a group setting
Time Commitment
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Average of 5 hours per week (includes Board meetings, committee work, and events)
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Term length: 2 years, renewable for additional terms
Benefits of Serving
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Make a meaningful difference in your community
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Build your network with other committed, skilled professionals
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Gain experience in nonprofit governance and leadership
How to Apply
To express interest or learn more, please contact bob.bourque@pawscanada.ca
To apply, please email a resume and brief statement of interest to volunteer@pawscanada.ca. Please include "Board of Directors" in the subject line.
Join us in giving animals the love and care they deserve!