Join Ongwanada’s Board of Directors
Join Ongwanada’s Board of Directors
Lead with Purpose
Serve on the Ongwanada Board of Directors
For over 75 years, Ongwanada has been a cornerstone of support for people with developmental disabilities and their families in the Kingston region. The Board of Directors makes this legacy possible; providing the leadership, accountability, and vision that ensure Ongwanada remains a strong, sustainable organization for the people who depend on it.
Board members do not run day-to-day operations, they shape the future. If you are ready to contribute your skills, perspective, and commitment to a mission that matters, we want to hear from you.
What The Board Does
The Board of Directors is responsible for governing the organization, not managing it. Board members focus on the big picture: strategy, accountability, and sustainability.
The Board:
• Hires, supports, and evaluates the CEO
• Ensures the organization’s finances are in good order
• Ensures all legal, financial, and statutory obligations are met
• Acts as steward of Ongwanada’s reputation and long-term sustainability
• Ensures a current strategic plan is in place and being followed
• Represents and advocates for the organization in the community
What the Board Does Not Do
A common misconception is that board members run the organization. In fact, the Board does not:
• Manage staff or volunteers
• Make day-to-day operational decisions
• Deliver programs or services
• Get involved in individual personnel matters
Those responsibilities belong to staff and management. As a board member, your role is to lead and govern, not to operate
Who We’re Looking For
Effective boards thrive on diversity, of background, perspective, and experience. You do not need to be an expert in every area, and prior board experience is not required. What matters most is your commitment to the mission and your willingness to contribute.
Governance or leadership experience
Willing to learn
Financial literacy
Respectful and open-minded
Legal, HR, or policy knowledge
Able to work as part of a team
Community connection and advocacy
Comfortable asking questions
Strategic thinking and problem-solving
Committed to the mission
Commitment to equity, inclusion, and ethical decision-making
Able to keep information confidential
You don’t need to check every box — if you see yourself in this list, we encourage you to apply.
Board Member Commitment
We respect your time. Here is what board service typically involves:
- 9 board meetings per year (monthly, except July, August and December)
- Service on either the Audit and Finance Committee or the Governance & Nominating Committee (meeting frequency varies)
- Three-year term, with the possibility of two renewals (up to 9 years total)
- Board orientation and onboarding when you begin
- Occasional community events or additional training opportunities
New directors are fully supported through onboarding and orientation, and you will never be expected to walk in knowing everything from day one.
Hear From Our Board Members
Serving on the Board of Ongwanada is an opportunity to support an organization that makes a meaningful difference in the lives of people with developmental disabilities and their families. Board members help provide guidance, governance, and community perspective to ensure the organization continues to grow, remain accountable, and deliver compassionate, high-quality services.
Frequently Asked Questions
CLOSED
Do I need prior board experience?
Not at all. Many excellent board members join without any prior governance experience. What matters is your perspective, your skills, and your commitment to Ongwanada’s mission. All new directors receive full onboarding and orientation support.
What support will I receive as a new director?
All new board members go through a structured orientation process. You will be paired with resources to help you understand the organization, your responsibilities, and how to contribute effectively. The board chair and governance office are available for questions at any time.
What do board members gain from serving?
Beyond contributing to a meaningful cause, many directors find that serving is genuinely rewarding. Board members often gain:
• Leadership and governance experience
• New skills and professional development
• Community connections and relationships
• Insight into how complex organizations make decisions
• A lasting sense of purpose and contribution
What does the board work on?
Board work is strategic and governance-focused, and typically includes:
• Strategic planning and goal-setting
• Reviewing policies and bylaws
• Financial oversight (budgets, audits, reports)
• Risk management and compliance
• Executive leadership oversight
• Board development and succession planning
How do I apply or learn more?
We would love to hear from you. Here is how to get started:
• Review the board role description
• Submit your application using the form below
• Contact the governance office: board@ongwanada.com
Ready to Make a Difference?
If you are curious, committed, and ready to contribute your skills to a mission-driven organization that has served this community for over 75 years, we want to hear from you.
Step 1 – Review the board role description
Step 2 – Ask questions: contact us at board@ongwanada.com
Step 3 – Submit your application using the form below