Call for Directors

Since its inception in 1983, the Vancouver Island Human Rights Coalition (VIHRC) has played a vital role in the human rights landscape on Vancouver Island. VIHRC provides clients with information and assistance in bringing human rights complaints to the BC Human Rights Tribunal, as well as letters of support, training, and education in human rights. We strive to offer free services without income testing.

VIHRC is a small but impactful organization with one full-time advocate, rotating co-op students, and a volunteer board of directors. Directors can attend meetings remotely, so applicants from across BC are welcome!

We are a working board, which means we seek Directors who actively manage the organization by engaging in various administrative tasks. From fundraising to advocacy support, our Directors contribute their expertise and networks to help VIHRC grow. Directors commit to a two-year term and can expect to spend about 5 to 10 hours per month supporting VIHRC activities.

VIHRC is committed to recruiting a diverse Board of Directors. BIPOC applicants,  2SLGBTQ+, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.  Accommodations will be provided upon request during the application process. At the moment, VIHRC is looking for individuals with experience in bookkeeping, fundraising, marketing, social media, business and charity law, and social work. 

Vancouver Island Human Rights Coalition (VIHRC)

Board of Directors - Treasurer Role Description

Position Overview

The Board Treasurer provides governance-level financial oversight and fiduciary stewardship for VIHRC, rather than day-to-day financial management or bookkeeping. Working closely with the Executive Director and the Board, the Treasurer provides strategic financial oversight, helps safeguard the organization's financial health, integrity, and supports transparency and compliance with legal, regulatory, and funder obligations. The Treasurer also plays a key role in supporting the Board’s long-term financial planning and sustainability by helping directors make informed financial decisions and ensuring responsible stewardardship of the organization’s resources in support of VIHRC’s mission. 

Term

Two years, with the opportunity to renew

Key Responsibilities

Financial Oversight

  • Provide regular reports to the Board on VIHRC's financial position, including revenue, expenses, and variance from budget

  • Review financial statements for accuracy and completeness prior to Board meetings

  • Ensure the Board understands the organization's financial position and can make informed decisions

Budgeting

  • Lead or oversee development of the annual budget in collaboration with staff and relevant committees

  • Present the budget to the full Board for approval

  • Monitor actual performance against budget throughout the year

Compliance & Risk

  • Ensure VIHRC meets its financial reporting obligations as a registered organization (e.g., annual filings, CRA requirements)

  • Flag financial risks or irregularities to the Board in a timely manner

  • Oversee the annual audit or financial review process on behalf of the Board, including serving as the Board's liaison with external auditors or accountants, where applicable

Governance

  • Coordinate financial oversight activities

  • Champion long-term financial sustainability and responsible stewardship of VIHRC's resources, in support of the Board's strategic priorities

  • Periodically review the organization's financial policies and recommend updates to the Board as appropriate 

  • Ensure appropriate financial policies and internal controls are in place and followed (e.g., signing authority, expense approval, reserve policy)

  • Advise the Board on the financial implications of strategic decisions and emerging risks

  • Support Board-level strategic planning by providing financial context and constraints

Communication

  • Act as the primary point of contact for financial questions from other Board members

  • Present financial information in a manner that is accessible to Board members without financial backgrounds

  • Provide governance oversight and advice regarding the financial aspects of funder reporting, as requested

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

  • Demonstrated experience in accounting, finance, budgeting, auditing, financial oversight, or nonprofit financial management

  • Ability to read and interpret financial statements and communicate financial information clearly to a Board of Directors

  • Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills, with the ability to translate financial information into clear, practical guidance that supports Board decision-making

  • Commitment to good governance, fiduciary accountability, and ethical stewardship

  • Familiarity with nonprofit financial compliance requirements in British Columbia, or willingness to learn

  • Demonstrated commitment to human rights, equity, inclusion, and social justice

Assets

  • CPA designation is an asset; candidates with significant experience in finance, accounting, auditing, or nonprofit financial management are also encouraged to apply

  • Previous experience serving as a Treasurer or Board Director

  • Experience with nonprofit organizations, charities, or societies

  • Experience supporting audits, financial reviews, or organizational risk management

  • Experience developing or monitoring annual budgets and long-term financial planning

Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion 

The Vancouver Island Human Rights Coalition is committed to building a Board of Directors that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We welcome and encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences, including Indigenous Peoples, Black and other racialized persons, persons with disabilities, members of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, people of all genders, ages, faiths, and socioeconomic backgrounds. We believe that diverse perspectives strengthen our governance and our ability to advance human rights across our communities.

VIHRC is committed to providing an accessible and inclusive recruitment process. If you require an accommodation, please let us know, and we will try our best to meet your needs.

Time Commitment

  • Estimated 1-2 hours per month on average (inclusive of meetings), with higher demand (3-5 hours) during budget season and year-end reporting

  • 1 hour board meeting every other month

How to Apply

  • Send your resume (1-2 pages) and motivation letter (maximum one page) to vihrcdirectors@gmail.com. The successful candidate is expected to start their term in August 2026. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

 
 

We would like to acknowledge that the lands on which the Vancouver Island Human Rights Coalition office is located, are the traditional territorial lands of the Lekwungen peoples (Songhees and Esquimalt First Nations). We thank the Lekwungen peoples for allowing us to work and assist those in need, on their lands.