Board Member

Position Title : Voluntary Board Member

Number of Positions : Multiple

Organization : The Reading Partnership

Location : Toronto / GTA, Ontario, Canada

Commitment : Minimum three-year term with the possibility of renewal

The Board of Directors of The Reading Partnership , a Black-led registered charity that helps children develop a love for reading, is seeking new members to advance a new strategic plan (2025-2027) for community-led expansion that will boost literacy for families across Canada.

ABOUT THE READING PARTNERSHIP

Established in 2011, The Reading Partnership (TRP) has the mission to build community and cultivate a love of reading for children and families through inclusive, interactive and evidence-based literacy programming.

TRP’s vision is that every child in every community has the literacy skills and self-determination to positively impact their world.

TRP is unique in its commitment to engaging input from participating families in program design. Our educational tools and programs are shaped by the people who use them - and it's why what we do works.

We believe that literacy skills development for kids cannot be left to chance : we conduct exceptionally rigorous evaluations of our programs, and insist that initiatives are based on best practices.

In addition, we ensure that those responsible for kids’ learning (caregivers, educators and community program staff) are trained and equipped with evidence-informed methodologies and resources for supporting kids’ literacy.

TRP serves over 1000 individuals annually, helping children ages 0-12 across Canada develop the skills and confidence to read and learn independently.

With an ever-expanding network of community and funding partners, TRP has an operating budget of $1.8 million and a growing team that includes nine full-time staff.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Board of The Reading Partnership, together with founder and Executive Director Camesha Cox, is expanding its leadership to support key strategic priorities, namely community-led, nationwide scaling of core programming.

Our Board members include professionals with expertise in community development, education and finance. As we continue to grow, we are seeking individuals who, in addition to caring for regular Board responsibilities (strategic planning, financial oversight, advocacy, governance), are able to contribute expertise, connections and / or resources in one or more of the following areas :

Legal

• Provide legal guidance and assist the board and staff in understanding the legal implications of key organization activities.
• Ensure the board understands relevant legal issues in strategic planning and decision-making.
• Provide guidance on issues like contract and policy creation and review, risk management, intellectual property issues, and when outside legal counsel might be necessary.

Technology

• Provide direction, networks and enthusiasm in leveraging technology for innovative learning solutions, effective organizational scaling and creative relationship-building.
• It is beneficial to have specialization in integrated solutions in data management, Learning Management Systems, CRM, ERP, and cyber security.

Fundraising

Demonstrated experience in mobilizing Board members and Fundraising Committee members; - demonstrated experience in championing a fundraising campaign;

collaborating with leadership staff to raise funds; cultivating relationships that lead to donations; leveraging network to cultivate new funder relationships.

Business Growth

• Demonstrated experience leading sustainable growth in the nonprofit sector, ideally on a national level
• Ability to provide guidance with respect to both programmatic and organizational scaling.

TIME COMMITMENT

Members of the board are expected to attend approx. six board meetings annually, in addition to occasional organizational events.

While the majority of the board meetings will be conducted virtually, some live meetings have been scheduled. Board members are also expected to participate in committee meetings.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Lived experience of the issues affecting the diverse communities served by TRP is highly desirable and will be prioritized
• Demonstrated understanding of how systemic issues negatively impact our community and a demonstrated commitment to the development of systemic solutions
• Demonstrated leadership experience in nonprofit organizations, governance, or related fields. Previous Board experience will be considered an asset
• Ability to dedicate time and energy to fulfilling Board responsibilities, including attending meetings and participating in ongoing activities and events
• Commitment to the mission, vision, and values of The Reading Partnership, with a passion for promoting literacy and educational equity.

Select candidates will be invited to fill out our application form to share why you are interested and how you feel you can contribute to our growth.

The Reading Partnership strives to foster an environment that reflects the diversity of the communities it serves and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates.

It is also committed to developing an inclusive, barrier-free selection process and work environment. Please advise if you require accommodations to ensure a fair and equitable selection process.

You can learn more about The Reading Partnership at https : / / readingpartnership.com.