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
