2025-2026 Board of Directors
| Name | Position |
|---|---|
| Cadence Baker | Chair |
| Shawna Smigelski | Vice-Chair |
| Jude Friesen | Treasurer |
| Sandra Benedikovic | Secretary |
| Rikka Bouseh | Director |
| Nick Hollinger | Director |
| Sogand Kashefi | Director |
| Eric Vallillee | Director |
| Meghan Yip (on leave) | Director |
| Lisa McIntosh | Interim Executive Director (ex-officio) |
CALL FOR NOMINATIONS
BBBSOLA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Big Brothers Big Sisters of London and Area (BBBSOLA) is currently seeking up to 3 community-minded individuals to join our volunteer Board of Directors.
About BBBSOLA
BBBSOLA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating life-changing mentoring relationships for children and youth facing challenges. Our mission is to empower young people to reach their full potential by connecting them with caring mentors. We serve children and youth in London and Middlesex County, especially those impacted by Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), racism, gender diversity, sexual orientation, and other systemic barriers.
At BBBSOLA, we believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive.
Why Join the BBBSOLA Board?
This is a meaningful opportunity to help shape the future of an organization making a direct and lasting impact on youth in our community. As a board member, you’ll support the leadership of BBBSOLA during a time of growth and innovation.
The board uses a Policy Governance model, focusing on high-level strategy, accountability, and community connection. Directors do not manage day-to-day operations but provide vision, oversight, and support for the Executive Director and team.
We’re looking for individuals who:
- Believe in the power of mentorship
- Reflect the communities we serve
- Are committed to equity, diversity, inclusion, and reconciliation
- Are ready to listen, learn, and lead
We Are Especially Encouraging Applications From People Who:
- Have lived experience or work closely with 2SLGBTQIA+ communities
- Are racialized and/or from immigrant, refugee, or newcomer backgrounds
We recognize that many people belong to more than one of these groups and welcome applications that reflect the diversity of our community.
What’s Involved
Board members are expected to:
- Attend regular board meetings (Don’t worry — we take the summers off, so you still get to enjoy your patio season!)
- Participate in committees or working groups as needed
- Contribute to strategic planning and decision-making
- Help champion BBBSOLA’s mission and programs
Training and onboarding will be provided, especially for candidates new to board work or policy governance.
How to Apply
If you’re interested in joining our Board, please submit the following by February 20, 2025
- Board of Directors Application Form
- Letter of interest (questions provided)
- A Resume
Send your completed application package in confidence to board.london@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca.
Subject line: Call for Nominations – BBBSOLA Board
Please see: BBBSOLA – Background information or Candidates interested in joining the Board of Directors
If you have questions, feel free to contact Lisa McIntosh, Executive Director, at Lisa.McIntosh@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca