Governance
The organisational structure of EWB is illustrated below. This structure seeks to define the roles and responsibilities of the key internal stakeholders of the organisation.
Constitution
The Constitution outlines the organisational structure of EWB and gives a breakdown of the internal framework of the organisation.
Board
The Board of Directors is elected by the Members. The Board is the body that takes ultimate responsibility for all of EWB's activities and strategies and ensures that all legal, accounting and other conformance requirements are fulfilled. Ultimately, the Board's duty is to ensure that EWB stays true to its stated mission.
National Council
The National Council is a representation of all EWB Chapters, which generally meet twice a year - at the annual EWB conference and at the Strategy seminar. The National Council consists of 3 representative from each Chapter, as well as the National Office key staff.
The National Council exists to:
- canvas the views of members and chapters
- design and advise on strategy and policy issues
- provide recommendations to the Board
- approve the formation of new Chapters
- suspend or dissolve Chapters and
- generally further the best interests of the EWB
Chapters
Chapters bring together EWB members who wish to act as a group, having regular meetings, events, and working on projects together. Chapters are usually university, company or geographically based.
Members
EWB's members are a community of like-minded people with a shared interest in international development, and the implementation of appropriate technology in improving livelihoods and reducing poverty and disadvantage.
“Volunteering at EWB continues to be an invaluable experience. From the first day that I had contact with the organisation I was enamoured with the enthuasism and warmth of all the staff and volunteers. There is a strong commitment to community and shared common values of respect and compassion are constant threads through all of EWBs work, which I really appreciate. Regardless of what I do, I always feel valued and as though I'm contributing to something worthwhile and greater than myself.
”
Natasha Whitelaw, EWB Programs Volunteer 2009
