Director Board of Directors

Surrey Urban Mission Society (SUMS) is a faith-based nonprofit organization dedicated to serving individuals experiencing homelessness, poverty, food insecurity, and complex social challenges in Surrey. Through food distribution, housing support, outreach, and community programs, SUMS works to restore hope, dignity, and stability to those in need.

The Board of Directors provides governance, fiduciary oversight, and strategic leadership to ensure SUMS fulfills its mission and operates in alignment with its values, bylaws, and regulatory obligations. Board members act in the best interests of the organization and the community it serves.

The Board governs, while operational management is delegated to the Executive Officer.

• Governance & Strategic Direction
• Provide oversight of the organization’s mission, vision, and strategic plan
• Approve and review policies to ensure sound governance practices
• Ensure compliance with applicable legislation and nonprofit regulations in British Columbia
• Participate in board development and governance improvement initiatives
• Approve annual budgets and review financial statements
• Ensure appropriate internal controls and risk management systems are in place
• Monitor financial sustainability and long-term viability
• Support responsible stewardship of donor and grant funding

• Hire, support, and evaluate the Executive Officer
• Provide guidance and accountability while respecting operational boundaries

• Act as ambassadors for SUMS within the community
• Support fundraising initiatives and donor engagement
• Strengthen relationships with partners, churches, community organizations, and stakeholders

• Attend and actively participate in scheduled board meetings
• Serve on at least one board committee (e.g., Finance, Governance, Fundraising)
• Review meeting materials in advance and contribute thoughtfully to discussions
• Maintain confidentiality and declare conflicts of interest

• Commitment to the mission and Christian faith-based values of the organization
• Experience in nonprofit governance, finance/accounting, legal, HR, fundraising, IT, risk management
• Strategic thinking and sound judgment
• Strong communication and collaborative skills
• Understanding of issues related to homelessness, food insecurity, and poverty (preferred)
• Must pass requirements as outlined with Canada Revenue Agency

• Board meetings:
  Approximately 2.5 hours per meeting, 10 months per year. Meetings alternate every other month between in-person (Surrey) and online, with 1 in-person Annual General Meeting in June.
• Committee meetings:
  As required
• Participation in key events and strategic planning sessions
• Estimated commitment: 1-3 hours per month

Board positions are voluntary and unpaid. Reasonable expenses may be reimbursed in accordance with organizational policy.

To apply for this position, please submit your statement of interest and resume in confidence, to