Our Board
Governance & Direction
Ensuring transparency, accountability, and community-focused impact.
Collective Responsibilities of All Board Members
- Act in the best interest of the organization
- Uphold fiduciary duties of care, loyalty, and obedience
- Maintain confidentiality and avoid conflicts of interest
- Support fundraising and community engagement
- Attend meetings regularly and participate actively
- Advocate for the mission and programs of the organization
SWLDC is guided by a dedicated Board of Directors who provide leadership, governance, and strategic direction. Our board members bring experience in:
SWLDC Board of Directors – Roles & Responsibilities
Chair of the Board
The Chair provides overall leadership and governance oversight to the Board of Directors and ensures the effective functioning of the Board in fulfilling its fiduciary and strategic responsibilities.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide leadership to the Board and ensure effective governance
- Chair all Board and Annual General Meetings
- Set meeting agendas in collaboration with the Secretary and Executive leadership
- Ensure Board decisions align with the mission, vision, and strategic priorities
- Act as the primary spokesperson of the Board when required
- Support and evaluate the performance of the Executive Director
- Foster positive relationships among Board members, staff, partners, and stakeholders
- Ensure compliance with bylaws, policies, and applicable laws
- Represent the organization at community and stakeholder meetings
Vice-Chair of the Board
The Vice-Chair supports the Chair and assumes the Chair’s responsibilities in their absence, ensuring continuity of leadership.
Key Responsibilities:
- Support the Chair in governance and leadership duties
- Chair meetings when the Chair is unavailable
- Assist with Board development and succession planning
- Lead special projects or committees as assigned
- Support conflict resolution and consensus-building
- Contribute to strategic planning
- Step into the Chair role if the position becomes vacant until an election is held
Secretary
The Secretary is responsible for accurate records, documentation, and governance compliance.
Key Responsibilities:
- Record and maintain accurate minutes of all Board and AGM meetings
- Ensure proper notice of meetings is provided
- Maintain official records including bylaws, policies, and resolutions
- Ensure legal and regulatory filings are completed on time
- Support transparency and good governance practices
- Safeguard corporate documents
- Assist with official correspondence as required
Treasurer
The Treasurer provides financial oversight and ensures the financial health, accountability, and transparency of the organization.
Key Responsibilities:
- Oversee financial management and reporting
- Present financial reports to the Board
- Support budgeting and financial planning
- Monitor cash flow and internal controls
- Ensure compliance with financial policies and funding agreements
- Support preparation of annual financial statements
- Liaise with accountants, auditors, and funders
- Advise the Board on financial risks and sustainability