Be Part of a Movement that Puts our Children & Families First!
Volunteer Opportunity – Family Smart* Board Member

Who We are Looking for:

Are you someone who cares deeply about mental health and the well-being of children and their families?  Do you believe in the power of lived experience, community connection, and systems that listen as much as they lead? Are you ready to bring your unique voice and skills to a team that’s changing how we support young people and those who care for them?

We’re looking for up to three new board members who want to help shape the next chapter of our story and who reflect the diversity of the families we serve — in background, perspective, and lived or professional experience. If you’re aligned with our mission and values, we want to hear from you.

We’re especially eager to connect with individuals who bring expertise in:

• Law

• Mental health clinical practice

• Fund development and fundraising

We welcome applicants from across Canada, with priority given to those based in British Columbia.

Why FamilySmart?

For over 25 years, FamilySmart has been walking alongside young people and the adults who care about them. We know that when families feel heard, supported, and empowered, kids do better. And that’s what drives us — every day.

We’re a not-for-profit organization committed to transforming the child and youth mental health system — not by replacing it, but by walking alongside it, making it more human. 

Here’s what makes us different:

• We support over 10,000 families and young people each year — with no waitlists and no cost to families.

• We serve communities across British Columbia and the Edmonton region, working alongside CASA Mental Health in Alberta.

• Our Parent Peer Support Workers bring lived experience to their roles, offering emotional support and practical guidance to families navigating complex mental health and/or substance use challenges.

• Through our Working Well Together trainings, we create spaces where professionals, families, and youth learn from each other — not about each other.

• Each year, we lead National Child and Youth Mental Health Day (May 7) with the powerful message: I Care About You.

What It Looks Like to Serve:

Being a Board Member at FamilySmart means showing up with curiosity, integrity, and a heart for impact. Here’s what you can expect:

• 6 board meetings/year.  Meetings are held virtually on Thursday late afternoons, Pacific Time. 

• Participation in one board committee (approx. 5 meetings/year)

• 4–6 hours of volunteer time every 2 months, supporting events or initiatives

• Annual in-person board retreat in Vancouver (travel expenses covered)

• Three-year term, with an option to renew once

This is a governance role. While you won’t be involved in day-to-day operations, you’ll help shape strategy, provide oversight, and be a thought partner to our CEO and leadership team.

Ready to Join Us?

Please submit your resume and a thoughtful cover letter to Jan Damery, President & CEO at:

Your lived experience matters. Your professional expertise matters. But most of all, your care matters. We can’t wait to meet you.

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION: June 20, 2025

*Legal name IF National Institute of Families Foundation for Child and Youth Mental Health)