Seeking Board Members
Seeking Board Members for the SWAA Inaugural Board!
The Social Workers Association of Alberta (SWAA) is seeking board members for its inaugural Board, and we invite SWAA members to consider running as a candidate! There are 13 board positions to fill.
SWAA is committed to promoting the profession, advocating together for what matters, and supporting social work in Alberta. The principles of social justice, diversity, inclusion, equity, and decolonization form our foundations.
SWAA’s first Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held on September 21, 2023. At this AGM, SWAA members will vote for the inaugural board that will take over the work of the current interim board. The inaugural board members will have the exciting opportunity to work with our Executive Director to shape the strategic direction and provide oversight for developing and implementing programs and benefits, and engaging members.
SWAA needs a board that brings together people who have diverse perspectives, skills and experience, and a passion to be involved in leading and guiding the newly formed Association.
Application submission deadline: Sunday, July 16, 2023
Application submission deadline extended to: Monday, July 31, 2023
Who is eligible? A voting member of SWAA who is in good standing.
How to apply:
Click here to download the application form.
Complete the application form and submit it, along with your resume, by email to hello@myswaa.ca.
Nomination and election process
The recruitment committee will review the applications to ensure that they are complete and prospective candidates are voting members of SWAA.
SWAA members will vote for the candidates at the AGM on Thursday, September 21, 2023
SWAA Bylaws: Click here for bylaws (PDF).
For more information, please email hello@myswaa.ca.
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Information for the Prospective Board of Directors
Candidates for the 2023 Inaugural Board
Term: Board terms are for two (2) years with a maximum of three (3) consecutive terms. To support staggered board turnover, members of the interim board who are elected to the inaugural board will serve a one-year term and other elected members are asked to commit to a two-year term. The term commences at the end of the AGM on Thursday, September 21, 2023.
Time Commitment
Monthly two-hour board meetings
Committee meetings (typically 1 hour) – frequency as determined by the committee\
Independent work for the board & committee (varies)
Special meetings such as the AGM
Activities and events such as strategic planning, training, and conferences
The Board Objectives
To oversee the stewardship of the Association and its assets
To maintain a sustainable organization and its financial base
To grow and maintain a robust Association membership
To have two-way communication between the Association and its membership and facilitate membership involvement
To support and advance the social work profession in Albert
To build a strong association that enhances, promotes and advocates on behalf of the social work profession in Alberta; connects members and provides services, supports, and resources to help members achieve professional excellence; promotes and supports the advancement of social justice.
Board Responsibilities (include but are not limited to):
Attend monthly Board of Directors meetings virtually or in person if needed.
Serve on a committee – attend meetings and carry out required tasks and duties;
Review agenda and supporting materials prior to board and committee meetings;
Establish, review, and monitor bylaws and governing policies and ensure compliance;
Work with the ED to develop and implement the Association’s foundational vision, mission, and strategic directions;
Attend board training and development sessions;
Provide operations oversight;
Participate in the evaluation of the Executive Director;
Participate in the recruitment of new directors;
Participate in the annual evaluation of the board and the Directors of the Board;
Provide financial oversight including annual budget approval and audits and reporting;
Ensure that structures, systems, and processes are in place for risk management;
Ensure legal and ethical integrity in all SWAA related activities;
Follow conflict-of-interest and confidentiality policies;
Represent and promote SWAA in the community;
Plan and attend the Annual General Meeting;
Additional responsibilities as identified
Relevant Board Member Skills and Attributes
It is important to have a board that brings together members with diverse perspectives, skills, and experience. The following skills and attributes should be collectively represented.
Board/committee, leadership skills and experience
Experience in governance
Collaborative leadership skills
Finance - related skills
Strategic thinking and planning skills
Communication and related technology skills
Experience in risk assessment & management
Good interpersonal skills
Experience in organizations or volunteerism engaged in social justice and advocacy
A commitment to working and leading within the principles of social justice diversity, inclusion, equity, and decolonization, and to hearing and listening to diverse perspectives
Willing and able to bring the perspectives of equity deserving groups who face barriers due to race, gender, disability, sexual and gender identity, and other groups protected under the Human Rights legislation
Willing to participate in board training opportunities
Willing to accept required time commitment