September 11, 2023
Dear friends,
CancerMaps needs your help to establish its
inaugural board of directors.
CancerMaps (www.cancermaps.ca) was started during my PhD work to
promote the creation of high-quality web content that supports people living
with cancer. It is now time to transition this project to a formal non-profit organization
to continue the CancerMaps mission.
The work of the inaugural board of directors is
critical to the success of this project. It will set the foundation for the
culture, character, and compassion CancerMaps brings as an organization to
those affected by cancer. This work will also shape the ability of CancerMaps to
partner with the larger community of organizations that support individuals on
their cancer journeys.
The terms of reference for the board will be developed in partnership with the inaugural board members. As such, the meeting frequency, length of member term, as well as member rights and responsibilities are not yet formalized. However, it is anticipated that board membership will involve:
·
3 – 4 formal meetings per year, virtual or in
person
·
A renewable term of two years
·
Passionately working to achieve the agenda for
the two-year term, as set by the newly established board
· A commitment to advocate for the organization, including through assisting with fundraising efforts such as event planning and liaising with other organizations
A minimum of two members are needed to join me on
the board, filling the roles of treasurer and secretary. However, the final
makeup of this inaugural board will reflect the number of applicants, their available
expertise, and best balance of board membership in terms of age and gender –
with a maximum membership of seven seats. Personal first-hand experience with
cancer, either as a past/present patient or as a close supporter (i.e., main
care provider/family member) is not required – but board membership composition
is expected to reflect a high organizational priority of partnering with those
affected by cancer to create positive change.
At this point being a member of this board is
volunteer work. Personally, despite not being “paid” for this work, I have
found it to be incredibly rewarding. Some of the benefits I have experienced
include meeting many wonderful and compassionate people, developing and growing
both personally and professionally, and making recognized contributions to the
care of those living with cancer. While I do not know what your experience with
this work will be, I am confident you will find it rewarding.
Please let me know if you have any questions, or
if someone you know might be a good fit for this work. If you are interested in
joining this board, and have no additional questions, please forward a brief
statement of interest as well as your CV/resume to me at info@cancermaps.ca.
Thank you for your ongoing support of this work.
Warm regards,
Mac
Thank you for your kind words.