Volunteer Opportunity: Indigenous Gathering Place Society of CalgarySeeking Treaty 7 Nation Board Members
At the Indigenous Gathering Place Society of Calgary, our vision is to create a sacred space where we share, connect, heal, renew, and celebrate Indigenous cultures. We are dedicated to establishing a culturally safe gathering place by 2027, serving as a central space for Indigenous Peoples' spiritual, emotional, cultural, and social well-being.
Rooted in the principles of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Call to Action #21, an Indigenous Gathering Place is a vital response to address the needs of Indigenous Peoples living in Calgary. We believe in fostering the well-being of Indigenous communities and promoting the protection of Indigenous practices, languages, and the wisdom of Elders through both oral and written teachings among all nations and relations.
Founded in 2018 as an independent, Indigenous-led non-profit, we are dedicated to realizing the long-held dream of establishing a culturally safe gathering space for Indigenous Peoples and fostering a welcoming environment for non-Indigenous individuals in Calgary. Our approach reflects the principle of ethical space, meaning that we work in both Indigenous and Western ways, finding parallels in both systems to guide us. We work collaboratively with urban Indigenous Peoples, Indigenous-serving organizations, Indigenous-led entities in Calgary, First Nations in the Treaty 7 region, the Métis Nation of Alberta, and the City of Calgary.
As we gain momentum toward realizing our vision, we are looking for prospective members to join and guide our direction, as a member of the Board of Directors.
What You Will Do
Our Board members are integral to all facets of this initiative, encompassing strategy development, budgeting, facility planning and design, community engagement, and the vital communications and fundraising efforts needed to bring the Indigenous Gathering Place to fruition.
Our Board of Directors steers the organization's work, acting as a conduit to the wisdom of the Elders involved with our society. Their insights and guidance deeply inform our initiatives and decision-making processes.Board members are expected to:
● Have the capacity to contribute to driving our initiatives, as we are a ‘working Board of Directors’
● Engage actively in monthly board meetings, with preparatory work done in advance.
● Contribute to at least one of the Board’s working committees (e.g., Finance, Fundraising,
Communications and Engagement).
● Advocate passionately for the vision of the Indigenous Gathering Place Society of
Calgary.
● Offer Indigenous perspectives and wisdom to enrich our collective leadership.
Term: 2-year commitment
Location: Moh’kinstsis (Calgary, Alberta) with options for in-person and virtual participation
What You Will Bring
● Lived experience and perspectives as a member of one of the Treaty 7 Nations.
● Profound respect for and understanding of ethical spaces, where Indigenous and Western ways of knowing and being are valued and harmonized to guide our work.
● Demonstrated ability to navigate and balance both Indigenous and Western methodologies, ensuring that our initiatives are inclusive, culturally sensitive, and effective.
● Experience working with Indigenous communities and organizations and a strong network of contacts in the Indigenous community.
● A deep understanding of the historical and contemporary relationships between Canada’s Indigenous Peoples and broader society, specifically those related to Treaty 7 and the Métis Nation of Alberta.
● Knowledge of traditional Indigenous protocols and practices (including gifts and ceremonial participation), the role of Elders and Knowledge Keepers in the community.
● 5-10 years of professional experience in a leadership role, preferably involving work with a Board of Directors, systems development, budget management, and experience in nurturing the growth and establishment of an organization or movement.
How To Apply
Express your interest by completing this form here. If you can have questions, please email us at
