PURPOSE AND SUMMARY
Position Summary
The Foundation Program Director provides strategic, operational, and community-centered leadership for the Mazinaajim Children’s Foundation, an Anishinabek-led charitable organization dedicated to enriching the lives of children and youth in Northwestern Ontario. Grounded in the belief that all children have the potential to dream big and succeed, the Foundation Program Director advances the Foundation’s mission by strengthening governance, securing resources, stewarding finances, and amplifying the Foundation’s impact through community engagement and public education.
The Foundation Program Director serves as the primary ambassador of the Foundation, building relationships with donors, partners, Elders, community leaders, and public figures to ensure sustainable support for programs that promote education, culture, recreation, and well-being for Anishinabek children and youth.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Key Responsibilities
Governance & Board Relations
1. Prepare agendas, briefing materials, reports, and recommendations for Board and committee meetings
2. Support the Board in strategic planning, policy development, and governance accountability
3. Ensure compliance with charitable regulations, reporting requirements, and ethical standards
4. Maintain strong communication between the Board and day-to-day operations
Fundraising & Resource Development
- Design and implement fundraising strategies to support programs, scholarships, and community initiatives
- Cultivate and steward relationships with donors, sponsors, foundations, and funding partners
- Lead grant writing, funding proposals, and impact reporting
- Representing the Foundation at fundraising events and donor meetings
Financial Management & Budget Oversight
1. Develop and manage the annual budget in collaboration with the Board
2. Oversee financial tracking, reporting, and responsible stewardship of funds
3. Ensure resources are aligned with strategic priorities and community needs
Program Leadership & Community Impact
Provide leadership oversight for Foundation-supported initiatives, including:
1. Cultural summer camps that connect youth with Elders, traditional skills, and Anishinabek heritage
2. Community-focused events such as Pow Wows and festivals that strengthen family and cultural connections
3. Bursaries and scholarships supporting post-secondary education
4. Recreational opportunities that promote physical activity, confidence, and social inclusion
5. Education incentive programs that reward academic achievement
6. Confidence, empowerment, and self-esteem programs for youth at risk
7. Monitor outcomes and ensure programs reflect community priorities and cultural values
Community Engagement & Public Education
1. Serve as the public voice and ambassador of the Mazinaajim Children’s Foundation
2. Educate external stakeholders, public figures, and partners on the needs, strengths, and potential of Anishinabek children and youth
3. Coordinate visits and engagement with role models such as professional athletes, artists, and media personalities
4. Build partnerships that expand opportunities and visibility for children and youth
5. cultivate and manage relationships with external partners, including corporations, community organizations, and industry stakeholders, to drive engagement, collaboration, and program impact
2. QUALIFICATIONS
Qualifications & Experience
- Experience in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, or community-based organizations
- Strong knowledge of governance, budgeting, and financial stewardship
- Lived experience within Anishinabek or Indigenous communities, or demonstrated commitment to Indigenous led, culturally respectful work
- Excellent communication, relationship-building, and public speaking skills
- Ability to work collaboratively with Boards, Elders, Donors, and community partners
3. CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
1. Satisfactory Criminal Records Search.
2. Ability to work flexible hours to service delivery requirements.
3. Must possess a valid Ontario Driver’s License and have access to a personal vehicle.
Hours of Work: 35 weekly
Please apply directly to: [email protected]
As an Indigenous focused foundation, Mazinaajim gives preference to Indigenous applicants.
Mazinaajim Children's Foundation is committed to diversity in the workplace and encourages applications from all qualified candidates.
Only those considered for an interview will be contacted.
Pay: $55,000.00-$70,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
