We are seeking a treasurer for our board directors who is passionate about contributing their skills and experience to making a difference in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside (DTES). While the financial health of the organization is the responsibility of the board as a whole, as treasurer you will play a key role in overseeing financial administration, developing financial policy, ensuring compliance, and safeguarding the long-term financial sustainability of our organization.

About the Neighbourhood House

The Downtown Eastside Neighbourhood House (DTESNH) is a secular, grassroots organization that provides a welcoming environment for residents to participate in community-driven programs. Our mission is to create opportunities for meaningful engagement in an equitable atmosphere of sharing and learning. Each year, we welcome nearly 9,000 residents, addressing critical issues like food insecurity and offering leadership, social, and recreational opportunities within a vibrant community.

About the Board

Our working board is a group of caring and committed community members and leaders who work collaboratively as directors to provide leadership and good governance in advancing the DTESNH mission, and who participate as volunteers in diverse initiatives.  

About the Treasurer Position

The Treasurer will oversee and monitor the financial performance of the House and report on its financial condition to the Board in accordance with good financial practices in order to provide assurance that appropriate systems to ensure financially sound operations and compliance with relevant policies and regulations are in place.  The role is primarily one of governance, working with the board to develop and maintain policy that supports sound financial planning, monitoring and management.

Key responsibilities include:

1.     Financial Health Reporting

·       Ensure key financial risks are identified, monitored, and mitigated. 

·       Confirm that financial processes, systems, and controls operate effectively. 

·       Report on compliance with policies, laws, regulations, and ethical standards. 

·       Highlight emerging financial issues and recommend timely action.

2.     Financial Oversight

·       Ensure compliance with funder reporting and administration requirements.

·       Review annual financial statements and coordinate the external audit process.

·       Monitor revenue and expenditures to ensure alignment with the approved budget and strategic goals.

·       Oversee internal controls to safeguard assets, prevent fraud, and ensure regulatory compliance.

·       Lead long-term financial planning to support strategic priorities.

3.     Strategic Contribution and Policy Development

·       Advise the Board on financial policy and governance matters.

·       Recommend improvements to the Society's financial governance framework.

·       Support the development of strategies to strengthen financial sustainability.

·       Promote informed decision-making by ensuring all Board members understand key financial concepts

4.     Collaboration and Relationships

·       Work closely with the Executive Director, Board and finance staff to ensure accurate, timely financial reporting.

·       Act as the primary liaison between the Board, Finance Committee, and external auditors.

·       Foster a collaborative approach to financial management across the organization.

About Core Responsibilities and Expectations of Board Members

·      Understand and be willing to carry out the duties and responsibilities of a director as outlined in the regulations governing our operation as a registered Canadian charity and a B.C. registered society.

·      Attend monthly board meetings as a fully informed director prepared to engage in discussion and decision-making.

·       Commit to a 2-year term as director, and to at least 3-5 hours per month to core board duties, which may include volunteer support of various initiatives.

About Who We’re Looking For – individuals who bring:

·      An understanding of the DTES community, alignment with the values of the DTESNH, and a passion for community service.

·      Professional accounting background with CPA or equivalent credentials.

·      Knowledge of non-profit sector environment, including funding management and regulatory compliance.

·      Strong communication and collaboration skills.

How to Apply

·      Send your resume with a cover letter describing your interest in joining the board to Benita Ho, Board Chair, at natureandnatural1968@gmail.com.

·      Applicants agree to meeting with the DTESNH board recruitment team to assess mutual fit.

DTESNH Location and Heritage

Our activities take place within the Unceded Territory of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, honoring the land and its original caretakers

Learn More about the DTESNH:

Discover more about our mission and how you can contribute at dtesnhouse.ca. 

Join us in our journey to empower and uplift the Downtown Eastside community by contributing your leadership and expertise. Together, we can make a lasting impact!