Volunteer - Philanthropy Committee Member

Volunteer Opportunity: Philanthropy Committee Member

Join us for an exciting opportunity to join Canadian Mental Health Association – York Region South Simcoe (CMHA YRSS) as a volunteer.

Help shape the future of community mental health by opening doors, building relationships, and inspiring generosity. CMHA YRSS is seeking passionate, well‑connected community members to join our Philanthropy Committee and join a hands‑on group of donors, ambassadors, and connectors committed to advancing mental health and addictions care across South Simcoe and York Region.

About the Role

As a Philanthropy Committee volunteer, you will play an active role in strengthening CMHA YRSS’s culture of philanthropy by helping to connect the organization with:

Individuals and families interested in charitable giving

Businesses and corporate partners

Foundations, community groups, and networks that share a commitment to mental health

Committee members act as ambassadors and champions, helping to open conversations, build trust, and create opportunities for donations, major gifts, sponsorships, and long‑term partnerships.

This is a working committee. Members are engaged, relationship‑driven, and willing to lend their voice, networks, and lived or professional experience in meaningful ways.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applications from individuals who:

Live, work, or have strong ties to South Simcoe and/or York Region

Believe deeply in the importance of mental health and community‑based care

Are comfortable making introductions, opening doors, and connecting people to purpose

Enjoy representing an organization as a trusted ambassador

Bring diverse perspectives, lived experience, cultural insight, and professional backgrounds

You do not need to be a fundraising professional. We value people who are curious, community‑minded, and willing to learn.

What You’ll Do

As a member of the Philanthropy Committee, you may:

Act as an ambassador for CMHA YRSS in the community

Identify and connect potential donors, sponsors, and partners

Support major gift cultivation and donor stewardship alongside staff

Assist with sponsorship outreach and special fundraising initiatives

Participate in committee meetings and related engagement activities

Help strengthen a donor‑centred, ethical, and inclusive culture of philanthropy

Committee Meetings & Time Commitment

Meetings are held quarterly at 8:00 a.m. and are fully virtual

Approximately 5–10 hours per quarter, including meetings and outreach activities

Additional involvement is flexible and aligned with your interest and availability

A Note on Innovation

Innovation is part of this committee’s mandate — but it means funding innovation, not directing it. Committee members help advance philanthropic support for new ideas, approaches, and solutions, while program design and delivery remain the responsibility of CMHA YRSS staff and leadership.

Why Join?

Make a tangible impact on mental health services in your community:

Use your networks and influence for good

Be part of a committed, values‑driven group of community leaders

Gain insight into how philanthropy fuels innovation and impact in mental health care

How to Apply

If you are interested in joining the Philanthropy Committee, please submit a brief expression of interest outlining:

Why you’d like to serve

Your connection to South Simcoe and/or York Region

The skills, experience, or networks you would bring to the committee