Board of Directors (Volunteer - 3 Positions)

It is an exciting time to join the Board of the Sojourn House. In 2023 we welcomed our new Executive Director, and we have just completed a process to develop a new strategic plan that will guide the direction of our programs and services for the next three years so we can continue to best meet the needs of our clients. We currently have three Board seats available and are looking for people who want to leverage their experience to help support our mission.

About Sojourn House
Sojourn House provides shelter and support for refugees to ensure their safe and successful transition into our community. Sojourn House opened in 1987 as one of the first refugee housing facilities in Toronto, and we take pride in being a leading organization in refugee care. In 2024, Sojourn House served over 500 refugees from 28 countries.

Our shelters and programs do more than provide much needed help to those in need - they support the diversity and multiculturalism that makes Toronto the city it is.

How can I help?
Toronto is seeing an unprecedented influx of refugee claimants amid a housing and affordability crisis. Sojourn House recognizes this challenge, but also sees this as an opportunity to expand our care model, providing the necessary services to those seeking protection in Toronto.

Our board members oversee the strategy and financial operations of Sojourn House. This can include:

• Developing governance and policies
• Helping us develop and expand our real estate footprint
• Ensuring financial health and compliance
• Collaborating to support the health and welfare of our members and community as required
• Improving our market and social media presence
• Assisting with fundraising
• Leveraging (where applicable) your knowledge and experience of the refugee experience

What will this involve?

• Attend an orientation session
• Attend and participate in six to ten board meetings each year and our Annual General Meeting
• Join a minimum of one board committee to actively support our priorities
• Must be available to serve a three-year term. Directors are eligible for re-election for a second term of three years.

Who Should Apply
We are looking for people who are passionate about advocating for and supporting refugee rights in Toronto, and Canada. We also welcome anyone that has experience as a refugee or immigrant in Canada, or has worked with refugees and immigrants in some manner. Sojourn House is an equal opportunity organization that encourages inclusion and celebrates differences.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of and support for the mission and purpose of Sojourn House
• Due to our current requirements, Candidates with experience in fundraising, real estate and/or finance will be prioritized
• Familiarity with board governance structures and the non-profit sector
  
  More About Sojourn House
  Sojourn House provides Emergency Shelter and Transitional Housing services to newly arrived refugees coming from all parts of the world. We provide a safe place and an inclusive environment for people who have arrived in Canada seeking protection. We provide the best possible settlement services and programs that help residents transition and integrate into the community. Since our induction in 1987, Sojourn House initiatives have served thousands of refugees. With decades of experience and being one of the first refugee housing facilities in Toronto we take pride in being a leading organization in refugee care.
  
  For more information Visit: http://www.sojournhouse.org/