Who We Are
YMCA of Southwestern Ontario’s mission is to be dedicated to the enrichment of our communities through growth in spirit, mind, and body for people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and abilities.
Our Core Values: Honesty, Caring, Respect, Responsibility, Inclusiveness
YMCA of Southwestern Ontario is a registered charitable organization that has been serving communities across Southwestern Ontario for over 160 years. With core services in Health & Fitness, Recreation, Child Care, Newcomer Services, and Camping, the YMCA serves over 200,000 individuals and families in 39 communities including Goderich, Woodstock, London, St. Thomas, Petrolia, Sarnia, Chatham, Windsor, Watford, and surrounding communities.
YMCA of Southwestern Ontario is currently seeking candidates to serve on its Board of Directors. YMCA Board Members serve as policy volunteers and act as stewards on behalf of the YMCA. They also perform fiduciary duties, develop strategy, and monitor organizational progress. Directors serve a maximum of six years, with Board meetings occurring six times per year. Some meetings are online, some are in-person, and some are hybrid. In-person and hybrid meeting locations rotate throughout the region.
Candidates should exhibit a commitment to community development and possess the ability to offer sound advice to contribute to the YMCA in fulfilling its mission.
The recruitment process will focus on enhancing geographic diversity, as well as cultural, ethnic, age, and racial diversity. Special consideration will also be given to candidates with experience in communication/public relations or financial/accounting.
All volunteers must have a current satisfactory criminal record check.
Board Director Commitment
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Attend a minimum of 60% of Board meetings annually and serve on at least one Board Committee (Governance, Audit and / or Human Resources).
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Actively participate in aspects of YMCA philanthropy in the local community.
Why Join the YMCA Board?
As a member of the Board, you will be provided with the opportunity to:
Affect significant change in our community through the creation of policy that nurtures key outcomes.
Contribute to a dynamic team that stewards the vision and mission of the Y.
Create an environment that fosters vision and enthusiasm.
Become an integral part of a world-wide movement over 175 years in the making.
Our board members take ownership for their attendance, agendas, and governance methods. The board executes its tasks by emphasizing and promoting the organization’s values, by developing the mission and vision of the YMCA, and by providing stewardship of the organization’s resources.
How to Apply:
Please submit a current CV to the Executive Administrative Assistant, Carol Balzer (carol.balzer@swo.ymca.ca) with 'Board Recruitment' as the subject line. Submissions will be accepted until close of business on Monday, January 19, 2026.