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What Do Members Do

What Do Board Members Do

Board members spend time with the person, being a friend in whatever way is natural for those involved. Together, the Microboard or Person Centred Society will help the person experience a fulfilling life by helping them:

  • plan their life
  • brainstorm and problem solve
  • advocate for what they need
  • do fun things together
  • connect to their community
  • monitor support services and make sure they are safe

 

This will require regular meetings of the Board, which will be held more frequently at the beginning or when issues need to be addressed.

Below you will find additional information to explain the expectations of a Board Member:

When Your Board Wants To Be an Employer:

The Microboard or Person Centred Society may want to access funding for the individual and do the following:

  • Become the employer and hire support workers.
  • Contract a respite caregiver.
  • Find a home share provider.

 

Microboards or Person Centred Societies that decide to become an employer must be organized, committed, and have the time to be the employer of record. In the beginning, this can be time-consuming,  but your Vela Mentor can help you.

When Your Board Does Not Want to Be an Employer

If being the employer of record is too much for the Board and your funding is from Community Living BC, you have several choices.

You can:

  • Request that the funding be directed through an approved service provider.
  • Access Individualized Funding. In this case the person can act as their own Agent or choose a trusted family member or friend to be the Agent. The Agent can either manage services directly through Direct Funding or request a Host Agency to manage the funding and provide support and services.

A Board Member Must Serve As:

Most Board Members will also serve as Board Directors, and in both roles, they must follow the rules for non-profit societies that are outlined in their bylaws. In BC, this includes having an annual general meeting and a register of members. Regular meetings help everyone stay connected and on track.

Board Directors serve in the following positions: 

  • President – sets the agenda and runs the meetings of the society.
  • Vice President – carries out the duties of the president when they are not available.
  • Secretary – notifies everyone of meetings, keeps meeting minutes, keeps records and documents for the society, and keeps a register of members.
  • Treasurer – keeps the financial records of the society (you may still need a bookkeeper).