2025 Board of Director – Call for Nominations
Your Local Farmers Market Society dba Vancouver Farmers Markets (VFM) is a dynamic community-based non-profit social enterprise with a vision of a resilient local food network that values people and the land. We pursue our vision by creating vibrant and welcoming markets that build community, feed people, employ staff and support small farms and producers.
We currently operate a network of nine weekly neighbourhood farmers markets throughout Vancouver on the unceded territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) people.
Part of our work is to increase access to local food and/or market opportunities for diverse populations and marginalised groups. VFM is in deep consideration of how our operations can be more inclusive, anti-racist and equitable. We invite BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, people with disabilities, and those who have lived experience building inclusive systems to apply.
This year, the Board of Directors has 6 vacancies to fill, of which 2 current Directors may stand for re-election. Board terms are three years long and the commitment required of VFM Board members is about 10 hours/month.
VFM’s nominating committee is seeking candidates with the following:
Skills and Experience:
- Governance/Board experience
- Non-Profit experience
- Fundraising experience
Characteristics required:
- Commitment to advancing the VFM mission, vision, values and strategic plan
- Collaborative and respectful communicator, adheres to VFM Code of Conduct
- Familiarity with non-profit governance or the ability and commitment to learn
- Familiarity with farmers markets in Vancouver’s diverse neighbourhoods
- An understanding of our regional food system
Expectations:
- Attendance and informed participation at 6–9 board meetings per year
- Active participation on at least one Board committee
- Optional off-site meetings and VFM Board representation where appropriate
- Participation in fundraising/membership promotion/sponsor acquisition
- Attendance at the society’s Annual General Meeting, All Vendor Meeting and any Special General Meetings
Nominations will be open from March 24th, closing May 5th 2025, 11:59pm.
Interested candidates must contact VFM’s Nominations Committee via email at nominees@eatlocal.org no later than the close of nominations on May 5, 2025.
In your email, please include:
- 200 word bio statement outlining your pertinent expertise and interest in joining the VFM Board of Directors
- Written confirmation that if elected, you consent to becoming a Director and will comply with the Society’s Bylaws
Individuals who have lived experience as vendors, market neighbours, shoppers, volunteers, coupon participants or other stakeholders are strongly encouraged to identify this experience in their submission. Please include “YLFMS 2025 Board Candidate Nomination” in the subject line.
Candidates must be YLFMS members in good standing by Wednesday, May 14, 11:59pm 2025 (at least 30 days prior to the Annual General Meeting scheduled for Friday, June 13, 2025). This means that the last date to renew or buy your membership, if not already done, is May 14, 2025. More information about how to become a member can be found here on our website.
Further details on VFM’s board nomination and voting process may be found in the Society’s Bylaws posted on the About Us section of VFM website.
