Do you want to participate on a provincial level regarding HIV, hepatitis C, and harm reduction? Are you looking for a big picture experience as opposed to hands-on opportunity? Do you want to support the frontline agencies at PAN?
If the answer is yes, then read on…
This year, looking towards our virtual AGM on October 20th 2022, we are actively recruiting for one Board member that will represent the Vancouver Coastal Health region, and for people living with HIV (PLHIV) and/or people with lived or living experience (PWLLE) of hep C.
All details, requirements, process and the application form can be found here.
Deadline is September 8th 2022.
What is the Board and why is it important?
Board members are volunteers that oversee the activities of PAN, and as a collective group, the board is the governing body of PAN. PAN board members set policy and establish PAN’s strategic plan. Board members support the Executive Director and staff in ensuring PAN activities and initiatives follow our purpose, mission and strategic plan. Other roles include approving annual budgets and keeping the organization’s performance accountable to the membership, to our funders and other stakeholders. In essence, the PAN board makes sure that PAN fulfills its mission and ensures it does so responsibly, respectfully, and with ethical financial management.
Being a board member is a highly responsible and accountable governing role, and should not be entered into lightly. In addition, board members at PAN do not carry forward the day-to-day work of the organization – the staff have that responsibility. PAN is a network of frontline organizations, and these organizations are our members. PAN isn’t a frontline organization itself, so if your passion aligns with the work of frontline groups, then our board may not be for you.
As per bylaw 50, the PAN board consists of up to fourteen members, who are elected for 2 years into regional seats, represent Indigenous concerns, and/or are people with lived or living experience (PWLLE).
What are some of the qualifications and requirements for becoming a PAN board member?
First off, board applicants must have the sponsorship and support of an existing PAN member organization. Ideally, you have a minimum of two years’ experience working or volunteering in the field (i.e. HIV, hepatitis C, harm reduction, etc.). Past committee or board work experience is a plus, though not required. We also look for opportunities to build the skill set and capacity of all contributors at PAN, be they volunteers, staff or board members.
Historically, PAN board members have been strong leaders within their own organizations – often occupying a senior paid or volunteer position; as well as being powerful voices within their region – who were then ready to lend their perspective and talents to the provincial picture.
The ability to work virtually is a must. So, all board members must have regular and timely access to a computer to access emails and office documents, since the majority of board communications are electronic. Our bi-monthly 2-hour board meetings require members to have access to Zoom. Board members are also expected to attend a daylong, in-person meeting – typically once a year, paid for by PAN.
All details, requirements, process and the application form can be found here.