|
|
|||||
|
|||||
| Path: Main Street : NewsWeek : Archive : NewsBytes : Article |
This is an archive of CharityVillage NewsWeek.
To find a word on the page, use your browser's "find" feature (CTRL-F or CMD-F).
Please note: While we ensure that all links and e-mail addresses are accurate at their publishing date, the quick-changing nature of the web means that some links to other web sites and e-mail addresses may no longer be accurate.
To view other articles in the archive, use our Chronological Index.
NewsBytes: October, 2001
Articles are arranged in reverse chronological order.
Globetrotting fundraiser back on Canadian soil
October 29, 2001
Canadian Mike Nemesvary has become the first quadriplegic to drive around the world unassisted. In the process, the three-time World Cup Freestyle skiing champion's four-continent Round the World Challenge raised more than $1 million in donations, sponsorships and gifts-in-kind for spinal cord injury research and rehabilitation in Canada. Nemesvary travelled through 18 countries on his journey, which began last March, and he says that, "while these people have vastly different resources at their disposal, they share a common objective of finding a cure for spinal cord injuries. This clearly is an issue that unites people around the world." For more information, visit: www.roundtheworldchalleng e.org.
October 29, 2001
Six of Canada's financial institutions announced a joint $1.4 million donation to the Yee Hong Centre. The Bank of Montreal, CIBC, HSBC Bank Canada, RBC Financial Group, Scotiabank, and TD Bank Financial Group donated the funds as part of a $35 million capital campaign that will go towards construction of three new geriatric centres in Mississauga, Markham, and Scarborough. Yee Hong's existing 155-bed facility in Scarborough currently has 1,000 people on the waiting list. The centre provides a culturally sensitive environment to seniors from the Chinese, Filipino, Japanese and South Asian communities of the Greater Toronto Area. To learn more about the Yee Hong Centre for Geriatric Care, visit: www.yeehong.com/index.html.
Fast Fact: Europeans ready to participate in email marketing
October 29, 2001
A report entitled "Email Marketing Needs Permission" reveals that while European consumers are willing to give permission for email they have high expectations of the quality and quantity of content they receive. The report finds that 56% of consumers participating in email marketing are between the ages of 16 and 34 years old and usually without children. Forty-four percent have a university degree and 46% have been online for more than two years. They spend an average of nine hours a week online, with 95% citing email as their key regular activity. Forty-one percent of respondents consider email a great way to find out about new products and 36% read most of the promotional emails they receive. To achieve success the report found that marketers must ask consumers' permission before sending out emails and set clear rules of engagement if they want to maximize their return on investment. -- Forrester Research
October 29, 2001
Community groups and organizations working to improve the day to day lives of urban residents are urged to apply to the Samuel and Saidye Bronfman Family Foundation's Urban Issues Program. Projects must respond to demonstrated community needs and involve local residents and community groups. Past projects have addressed issues such as affordable housing, food sustainability, protection of urban spaces, ecologically sound transportation, and the cultivation of community arts.
The program awards up to $30,000 a year for a period of up to three years. To be considered for funding, groups must send a letter of intent to the foundation no later than November 30, 2001. For information on funding guidelines, visit: www.bronfmanfoundation. org/urban.
October 29, 2001
After a year of research and inquiry, the government of Australia has released their recommended definition of charity. They have defined charity to be a not-for-profit entity that has a dominant purpose or purposes that are charitable, altruistic and for the public benefit. Australian Prime Minister John Howard announced the independent inquiry last fall in an effort to update existing charity law which is based on definitions that are centuries old. According to the government, the new definition builds on existing principles but offers more clarity while still maintaining flexibility. To view the full report, visit: www.cdi.gov.au/html/repor t.htm.
October 29, 2001
The Brewers Association of Canada and the Western Brewers Association announced a new three-year commitment of $350,000 to fund the Substance Abuse Helpline. This is in addition to $400,000 the brewers have invested since 1998 when the program initiative began. The Substance Abuse Helpline is part of the Motherisk Helpline, a national toll-free service to women, their families and their physicians throughout pregnancy and during breastfeeding. Reach Motherisk at 1-877-FAS-INFO (1-877-327-4636) or www.motherisk.org.
October 29, 2001
The September Eleventh Peace Coalition is calling on groups across the country to join a Canada-wide day of non-violent action for global peace and justice on Saturday November 17th, 2001. "Vancouver, Ottawa and Toronto are among the more high profile cities that will have non-violent actions against war and corporate globalization," said Peter Coombes, national organizer of End the Arms Race, and co-chair of the September 11 Peace Coalition. The coalition was formed on October 5 to oppose Canada's participation in military retaliation and to speak out against racist attacks resulting from the events of September 11th. It includes high-profile national peace, labour, student, religious, women, environmental, cultural and community groups. For more information visit: www.canadians.org.
October 29, 2001
Jim and Sandra Pitblado donated $1million to the University of Manitoba's law faculty. The gift will be matched by the Manitoba Scholarship and Bursary Initiative, totalling an endowment fund of $2 million to support a new initiative aimed at recruiting and keeping top students in Manitoba. Each year the Pitblado Scholars program will award 20 Dean's Honour Roll students in first- and second-year law class with $5,000 and the title of Pitblado Scholars. Faculty Dean Harvey Secter believes the rewards will help to recruit new students, as well as encourage the brightest graduates to stay in the province. Approximately 85% of Manitoba's lawyers are graduates of the U of M. To learn more about the University of Manitoba's Faculty of Law, visit: www.umanitoba.ca/Law.
October 29, 2001
The six-hour Music Without Borders concert held in Toronto recently has already raised more than $1 million for humanitarian relief in Afghanistan. "The response has been tremendous," said Steve Mason, executive director of the United Nations Association in Canada. "These funds will significantly increase the capacity of both the United Nations and War Child Canada to address the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan and neighbouring countries." Mail-in and walk-in donations are still coming in and the final tally is expected to increase in the weeks ahead. To learn more about the appeal, visit War Child Canada at: www.warchild.ca.
New survey examines Americans' attitudes about giving
October 29, 2001
Americans have difficulty locating the information they need to evaluate charities before making a donation. This is one of the findings in the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance's Donor Expectation Survey, which examined the attitudes about giving of more than 2,000 Americans. The survey also reports that the public's primary interest is knowing how charities spend their money. Giving decisions are influenced by the accuracy of a charity's advertising and promotions as well as the effectiveness of their programs and donors expect their money to be used for current programs. To view the survey results in PDF format, visit: www. give.org/news/Donor%20Expectations%20Survey.pdf.
October 29, 2001
A newly released work-life balance study finds that, compared to a decade ago, Canadian workers across all ages and demographics are increasingly being pushed to their limits. Almost two-thirds of workers (62%) in 1991 reported being highly satisfied with their jobs, compared with only 45% by 2001. Only 50% say they are highly committed to their job, a drop from 66% in 1991. When it comes to family life, almost one in four people decided not to have children and another 20% had fewer children because of work demands. These numbers are even higher among professionals. The findings are based on responses from 6,500 people at 40 organizations over the last year. -- Canadian Policy Research Networks
October 29, 2001
A Kenora hospital has another $3,000 to put toward a new CT scanner, thanks to the hearty efforts of a Winnipeg woman. Barb Sousa raised more than $3,000 in pledges for a grueling seven-day marathon across South Africa's Kalahari Desert. She successfully completed the Augrabies Extreme Marathon earlier this month, saying it was more of a challenge than she ever anticipated. The race from Augrabies Falls National Park to the city of Upington, 250 kilometres away is approximately the equivalent of running from Winnipeg to Kenora, Ontario. The 44-year-old teacher's aide placed sixth out of the 14 competitors from all over the world, and was one of only two women in the race.
October 22, 2001
A 1997 budget measure that provides special tax assistance to those who donate publicly traded stock to charity will be made permanent. The measure reduces the amount of a capital gain for donated securities by half. Individuals who would normally pay tax on 50% of gains realized on the appreciation of securities only pay 25% if shares are given to charity. Designed as an incentive to donate to charities, Finance Minister Paul Martin said that the measure has proven effective. During the period of 1997-2000 both the number and the value of donations of securities significantly increased, benefiting a broad range of charitable organizations. For more information visit: www.fin.gc.ca/news01/0 1-089e.html.
October 22, 2001
Following heightened concerns over the spread of the Anthrax virus, charities are changing the appearance of their direct mail to reassure donors the materials are safe. Many feel they can no longer responsibly send out mail in a blank envelope. World Vision Canada received numerous calls earlier this month about a recent fundraising appeal. Just days prior to the first reported case of Anthrax in the mail, the organization sent out its annual "Harvest Pack" letters, containing vegetable seeds, to 800,000 households across Canada. Although the package clearly states the name of the organization, some people were concerned when they heard the noise of the seeds rattling inside. World Vision is encouraging any Canadians concerned about any of the mailings they receive from the organization to call 1-800-268-5528, or visit www.worldvision.ca.
October 22, 2001
A survey conducted by Fifty-Plus magazine and the Zajac Foundation finds that 90% of Canadians over 50 believe interaction with children is good for them and 96% believe it also benefits the children. Of the 224 seniors surveyed, 62% currently have an opportunity to spend time with young children, while 61% would like to spend more time with kids as they age. More than 87% of respondents said they enjoyed these meetings, some saying they like sharing and teaching young children, while others thought time spent with kids keeps them fit and energetic. By the year 2020, 25% of all Canadians will be seniors. -- The Zajac Foundation
October 22, 2001
The ALS Society of Manitoba can cross one more item off their wish list now that a new ALS hospice has officially opened. Brummitt-Feasby House is a reality thanks to Faith Johnston and Lynn Brown, who donated the house to the Society after it was willed to them by their stepmother Dorothy Brummitt, herself afflicted with ALS. Named after their stepmother and late father, Fred Feasby, the house underwent 14 months of extensive renovations to prepare it for incoming ALS patients. The renovations were spearheaded by Marcel Bertrand who works in the construction industry and was diagnosed with ALS last year. Much of the required labour was donated by the Manitoba Renovation Contractors Association.
The hospice can accommodate up to four advanced ALS patients on the main level and two additional respite patients or family members of rural patients in Winnipeg for assessment can stay on the lower level. The first patients are expected early in 2002 once staff recruitment is complete. To learn more about the ALS Society, visit: www.als.ca.
October 22, 2001
Canadian researchers looking to network and share a cooperative relationship with other like-minded individuals need to look no further than the Association of Professional Researchers for Advancement-Canada. APRA-Canada, which was certified as a local chapter of the international organization last spring, is now actively developing programs and expanding membership with representation from coast to coast.
The association's goals include acting as a central source of information about research and fostering a national approach to information sharing. Members have access to a quarterly newsletter, a membership directory and a mentoring program. For more information about APRA-Canada, visit: www.apracanada.ca.
October 22, 2001
The federal government has signed a contract with a local PEI trust to allocate up to $991,000 on a matching basis toward successful proposals which address homelessness on the island. Bedford MacDonald Trust Inc. is leading a coalition of non-governmental agencies such as the Salvation Army and the Family Service Bureau of Summerside to work on the project. The trust secured $445,500 in funds and will be able to take full advantage of the available matching funds. Proposals will be accepted until November 19.
October 22, 2001
University of British Columbia grad students will have access to $1 million more in bursaries during the next five years. TD Bank Financial Group will create the university's largest privately funded bursary fund available exclusively to graduate students. The first bursaries are expected to be awarded this fall and will likely range from $50 to $2,500 per term, depending on a student's financial need. "We believe our dollars are best spent investing in human capital," said Charles Baillie, chairman and CEO of TD Bank Financial Group. "By dedicating these funds to graduate student bursaries, we hope to encourage students to pursue higher education and help build on Canada's knowledge base." UBC will match $400,000 of the donation as an endowed fund to ensure continuing support for graduate students. For more information visit: www.td.com/communicate/200110122.html.
October 22, 2001
Bell Canada will contribute $450,000 over the next three years in a partnership with Canadian schools and the federal government. SchoolNet's Network of Innovative School's (NIS) helps youth develop employability skills and creates innovative models for integrating technology in the classroom. "With Bell Canada's support, schools will continue to bring wireless technology to remote schools and put lessons online for access from home. . . students gain the skills required to succeed in the knowledge-based economy," said Member of Parliament Steve Mahoney. To learn more about the SchoolNet program, visit: www.schoolnet.ca/nis-rei.
October 22, 2001
As part of a University of Manitoba fundraising campaign, Scotiabank announced it will donate $750,000 to the University's I.H. Asper School of Business. "The global environment of business education presents challenges for universities to attract and retain the best faculty and students. Our campaign will allow us to compete successfully in this market at realize even greater success in the future," said Jerry Gray, Dean of the business school. The $30 million campaign will provide support for a variety of improvements including scholarship support, future development, and the Asper Centre for Entrepreneurship. For more information visit: myuminfo.umanitoba.ca/index.asp?too=100&eve=8&sec=209& ;id=472.
October 22, 2001
The Children's Hospital of Western Ontario, which is facing restructuring, received a pledge of $1 million from the Optimist Clubs of Midwestern and Southwestern Ontario districts. The funds will be used to build a 12-bed in-patient care zone within the new $30-million maternal and children's care and research facility being constructed north of the existing hospital. As part of the London Health Sciences Centre's hospital restructuring, the new hospital will also house the neonatal intensive care unit, marking the first centralization of all children's and maternal care in the city. "Through their generous gift, the Optimist Clubs of Midwestern Ontario District and Southwestern Ontario District have helped set the standard for philanthropic giving from service clubs, and we thank them for their continued support," said Tony Dagnone, president and CEO of London Health Sciences Centre. For more information visit: www.chwo-foundation .org/pr101701.htm.
October 22, 2001
On October 29th, screenwriter Donald Martin will be honoured by the Canadian Academy of Cinema and Television for his efforts to improve the life of children in South America. The first-ever Gemini Humanitarian Award, to be presented during the Gemini Awards program, was founded by the Global Television Network to recognize the philanthropic efforts of an individual in the Canadian television industry. Through Foster Parents Plan, Martin sponsored three children in South America, providing them with an otherwise impossible chance for a university education. The award includes a $10,000 donation to the winner's charity of choice, which this year will be Foster Parents Plan. For more information about this award, visit: www.academy.ca/med ia/humanitarian.htm.
October 22, 2001
The Canadian Magazine Publishers Association (CMPA) has initiated a letter writing campaign to Canada Post to protest its plans to increase mailing costs for magazines. Costs could increase between 12% and 41%, depending on weight, presort options, or participation in the postal subsidy program offered by the Department of Canadian Heritage. Although not all magazines receive the postal subsidy, those that do will see their rates increase by 41%, effectively eliminating the benefit of the subsidy. If postal rates increase many magazines, especially small and/or non-mainstream publications are likely to suffer. To learn more visit www.cmpa.ca/advocacy/post .html or email CMPA at cmpainfo@cmpa.ca.
October 15, 2001
Imagine is accepting nominations for its "New Spirit of Community" Partnership Awards until October 26. The awards recognize outstanding programs created between businesses and nonprofit organizations that make a difference in the community. Winning nonprofit partners receive a $5,000 cash prize along with national media exposure and community recognition.
To qualify, the partnership program must be a minimum of two years old and the business partner must be a member of Imagine's Caring Company Program or agree to become a member within 12 months of receiving the award. To apply, send a 500-word summary of the history and purpose of the partnership, the role or each partner, and the impact the partnership has had in the community to Imagine. For more information visit: www.ccp.ca/imagine/publications/imagine_news/2001/no15september01.htm.
October 15, 2001
Beginning in September 2002, the University of Windsor will offer a new doctoral program in Sociology with a specialization in Social Justice. Students will work with faculty who have expertise in a variety of social justice issues, including gender and equity issues, HIV/AIDS, international development, racism and ethnicity. The concept of social justice addresses the department's desire to push the boundaries of the discipline of sociology to address the current dramatic changes taking place in the world due to the effects of globalization and restructuring.
The deadline for applications is January 31, 2002, to be considered for scholarship support. If you would like further information about admissions, please contact Dr. Barry Adam, Chair of the Graduate Committee, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, at adam@uwindsor.ca, or visit: www.socialjusticeunivers ity.org
October 15, 2001
According to the World Health Organization's (WHO) World Health Report 2001 one in four people in the world will be affected by mental or neurological disorders during their lifetime. Even when treatment is available, two-thirds may never seek help. The report says some disorders can be prevented and most can be successfully and affordably treated. However, at present more than 40% of countries have no mental health policy and 30% have no mental health program. In half of the countries of the world there is only one psychiatrist for every 100,000 people. -- World Health Organization
October 15, 2001
In an effort to help Canadians cope with the aftereffects of the September 11th terrorist attacks, Health Canada last week launched the Canadian Mental Health Support Network along with 11 national health organizations. Partner organizations such as the Canadian Medical Association to the Canadian Psychiatric Association hope to help the public deal with their reactions to the events by providing relevant information.
A new volunteer body of health care professionals, called the Canadian Health Corps, is also in the planning stage. This national group will work with the Red Cross and other volunteer services in response to a national disaster. To learn more about the Canadian Mental Health Support Network, visit: www.cma.ca/cmhsn/.
October 15, 2001
Without $1.5-million in cash, and another $1-million in credit, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra may be bankrupt within days. In an attempt to stave off this fate, the TSO asked players to accept a 15% wage cut and a shortened concert season this year and further reductions in 2002. Gary Labovitz, a violist and chairman of the players committee estimated that the cuts would cost each player an average of $15,000 this season.
Last month the symphony's woes were made public when it was announced that it could face bankruptcy by November 30. Robert Weiss, board chair, confirmed last week that the situation is more dire and the symphony could run out of money in the next few days. The board is hoping the Toronto Symphony Orchestra Foundation will advance $750,000 from payments scheduled to be made in 2002. For more information about the TSO, visit: www.tso.on.ca.
October 15, 2001
The Heritage Canada Corporate Prize is the latest addition to the Heritage Canada Foundation's award program. The award will be presented annually to any incorporated business, sole proprietorship or partnership that demonstrates outstanding stewardship of its built heritage. Foundation officials hope that the new program will encourage and reward sound corporate sector stewardship of heritage properties and preserve Canada's built heritage for future generations.
Nominations for the award will be accepted from individuals or organizations that are not directly associated with the nominee. The first prize will be presented at the foundation's annual conference next year, September 27, 2002 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. For more information about the Heritage Canada Foundation visit: www.heritagecanada.org or email Doug Franklin, Director, Policy and Programs at dougfranklin@heritagecanada.org.
October 15, 2001
Nonprofit groups seeking operating grants from the Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM) will have to contend with some changes. Fred Brooks, senior recreation manager for the CBRM, says the new rules will help to gauge the level of service that groups provide to the community. He adds that grant requests come from a variety of nonprofit organizations, some of which primarily serve their own members. "We are saying if there is a club like that, they certainly deserve much less support from the CBRM if any at all. Those that are really trying to provide a variety of services and use their halls to the best advantage of the community, they certainly deserve greater support," he said. Last year the CBRM spent $180,000 on operating grants and typically receives 60-75 requests annually. To learn more about the CBRM visit: www.cbnet.ns.ca/~cbrm.
October 15, 2001
Coca-Cola, in conjunction with the Canadian Association of Children's Librarians, ABC CANADA Literacy Foundation and Performers for Literacy, recently launched a $1 million campaign to support child literacy programs in libraries across the country. The Share the Stories program will start at least 200 reading circles during the next year. Local authors and library staff will participate in the circles along with Performers for Literacy, which will provide special visits using drama and improvisation games to tell stories to children. The aim of the program is to make reading a pleasurable experience for children. Share the Stories is already running in Vancouver, Calgary, Winnipeg, Toronto, Montreal and Halifax.
October 15, 2001
Charities and nonprofits across Canada are feeling the impact of Air Canada's financial problems. Last month it was reported that sponsorship of the Air Canada Championship PGA event in Vancouver was cancelled. Now the arts community is facing cutbacks. The Playhouse Theatre Company, the Bard on the Beach Shakespearean Festival and the Vancouver International Film Festival are among the groups that lost sponsorship. Jane MacDonald, director of corporate affairs for the film festival, said the festival must find about $75,000 next year to replace money lost from Air Canada's sponsorship. "It's always a changing game. It keeps you on your toes I can tell you," said MacDonald.
October 15, 2001
The Space for Species program, officially launched last week, aims to connect students with their environment and one another. Advanced space technologies allow students to track the activities of a variety of endangered animals, including the leatherback turtle, the polar bear, the caribou and the eider duck. The program is the result of a partnership between the Canadian Space Agency, the Canadian Wildlife Service of Environment Canada, the Canadian Wildlife Federation and Natural Resources Canada's Canada Centre for Remote Sensing.
"By exposing school children to the science behind the effort to protect endangered animals and giving them a new perspective about their world, we hope to instill in them a life-long desire to protect these species," said Colin Maxwell, executive vice president of the Canadian Wildlife Federation. To learn more about the Space for Species program, visit: www.spaceforspecies.ca/.
October 15, 2001
A new program launched by the Daily Bread Food Bank in Toronto aims to help the environment and also buy supplies for the food bank. The thINK FOOD project encourages people to drop empty inkjet cartridges in special donation boxes placed around the city. For each cartridge collected, the food bank will receive as much as three dollars from companies that recycle and resell printer cartridges. The project also helps the environment since only 5% of the 25 million cartridges used in Canada every year are recycled. For more information visit: www.dailybread.ca/donate/thinkfood.html.
October 15, 2001
The National Eating Disorder Information Centre (NEDIC) has a new source of information and referral for individuals suffering from disordered eating, their parents and friends, health care workers and educators. Funded by the Ontario Ministry of Health, the toll-free number will deliver services to all who call concerned about food and weight issues. NEDIC urges all who are concerned about their attitudes and behaviour around food and weight, or that of a loved one, to call 1-866-NEDIC-20. To learn more about NEDIC visit: www.nedic.ca.
October 9, 2001
We at CharityVillage are sad to report the death of Wilf Grignon, our Recruitment Advertising Manager for Toronto and southern Ontario. Wilf died on September 29, 2001, while attempting to land his new Buccaneer amphibian ultralight plane. Wilf was one of the first members of the CharityVillage team, joining us in 1996. He brought with him an insatiable appetite for fun and a sturdy commitment to our advertisers. We will miss him terribly. Learn a bit more about our friend and colleague Wilf in this special tribute.
October 9, 2001
In an effort to increase funds available to heritage groups, the Heritage Canada Foundation has launched a new Landmark Preservation Program. This new initiative will assist groups by advertising national appeals for project support on the Heritage Canada website and in its quarterly magazine. All financial support that results from the advertisements will be forwarded to the particular group. "It will be especially helpful to those small communities that have outstanding landmarks but not the funding locally to undertake restoration, particularly following a flood, fire or other unforeseen disaster," said Trudy Cowan, chair of Heritage Canada Foundation.
The program will start on January 15, 2002 but the foundation is accepting applications now. Organizations interested in applying for assistance must have registered charitable status and must be or become members of the foundation. For more information about the program visit www.heritagecanada.org or email Doug Franklin, Director, Policy and Programs at dougfranklin@heritagecan ada.org.
October 9, 2001
Last Friday, 30 peace, labour, students, religious, women, environmental, cultural and community groups formed a national coalition to oppose Canada's participation in military retaliation to the September 11 terrorists attacks on the United States. The September Eleventh Peace Coalition includes the Canadian Labour Congress, End the Arms Race, The Council of Canadians, Science for Peace, The Canadian Peace Alliance, and The Canadian Federation of Students, among others.Organizers are promoting a path of "strengthening of the rule of international law, reducing disparities between the rich and the poor and men and women, building democracy, replacing the global war economy and ending the arms trade." The Canadian Women's March Committee also issued a similar declaration last week, calling on politicians to "respect the rule of law and bring accused terrorists before an international criminal court." For more information, visit: www.marchofwomen.org/en/index.html. For the full text of the September Eleventh Peace Coalition's declaration, visit: www.canadians.org/media/media-011005.html
October 9, 2001
In 32 cities across Canada, 115,000 participants came out for the recent Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation's (CBCF) CIBC Run for the Cure. So far, the unofficial count of funds raised for this year's campaign is more than $10 million, with the projected final figure set at $12 million, making it the most successful year to date. Now a decade old, this is the largest national fundraising event in support of breast cancer research, education, diagnosis and treatment. It also kicks off Cancer Awareness Month, which runs through October. For more information about the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation visit: www.cbcf.org.
October 9, 2001
When chief information officers (CIOs) from more than 270 Canadian companies were asked to name the one area in which their information technology (IT) staff could improve, 30 percent said technical skills. Verbal and written communication skills was cited by 21% of the CIOs and 18% said their staff's project management skills needed improvement. The national survey included responses from a stratified random sample of Canadian companies with 100 or more employees. -- RHI Consulting
October 9, 2001
Published by Venture Philanthropy Partners, a report entitled Effective Capacity Building in Nonprofit Organizations, discusses how some nonprofits are developing their organization's capacity, a topic of growing interest to many charitable groups. It offers information about how nonprofits can strengthen their operations to become more sustainable and better able to address the needs of their communities. Nonprofits can also take advantage of an assessment tool developed to help measure organizational capacity. To view the full report and assessment tool visit: www.venturephilanthropypartners.org/info-url_nocat2026/info-url_nocat.htm.
October 9, 2001
Hydro-QuÈbec renewed its commitment to an award program for Quebec's young athletes. The program, which is managed by the Fondation de l'athlète d'excellence du Québec (FAEQ), will receive $270,000 from the hydro company over the next three years. It will award 18 bursaries of $3,000 each year to young Quebecers who demonstrate excellence in a variety of amateur sports. For more information visit: www.hydroquebec.com/_media/en/index.html.
October 9, 2001
The BC Institute of Technology (BCIT) recently received $300,000 to build the new Global Television News Centre of Excellence. Slated to open next September, the centre will focus television journalism training. "Strong partnerships with industry are at the foundation of our programs," says BCIT president Tony Knowles. "CanWest has always been a champion of quality broadcast journalism – so we're delighted they have chosen BCIT for this tremendous investment in training young TV journalists." The donation from CanWest is part of the company's $12 million five-year commitment to post-secondary educational institutions across Canada. To learn more visit: www.newsreleases.bcit.ca/200110/foundation-CanWest.shtml.
October 9, 2001
In preparation for the 2002 UN World Summit on Sustainable Development, Youth Agenda 2002 is working to connect young Canadians, share experiences and collaborate on strategies to address Canada's progress toward sustainable development. Organizers are asking young people who are concerned about ethical business, human rights, the environment and a host of other issues to fill out an online survey to help determine youth priorities and concerns. Canadian residents between the ages of 15 and 30 can respond to the online survey at: www.unac.org/bp/english/survey.cfm. To learn more about Youth Agenda 2002, visit: www.youth2002jeunesse.unac.org.
October 9, 2001
Throughout September, people in 56 communities across the country took part in the Annual SuperWalk for Parkinson's 2001 raising a record amount of nearly $900,000 to benefit those living with Parkinson's, their families and caregivers. The results are an impressive 40% increase over last year's final total. For more information about the Parkinson Society of Canada, visit: www.parkinson.ca.Meanwhile, revenue reported from the ALS Society's first Walk to D'Feet ALS is already at $440,000 with more funds expected to come. That is double the initial target of $200,000. The ALS event brought together 3,600 Canadians in eight locations across Canada. Money raised will go towards the society's research program as well as to local organizations supporting people affected by the disease. To learn more about the Walk to D'Feet ALS, visit: www.als.ca/walk/index.shtml.
October 9, 2001
Status of Women Canada is now distributing a booklet to coincide with Women's History Month 2001. The publication, entitled In Praise of Canadian Women Volunteers takes an historical look at women and volunteer work in Canada. It highlights the volunteer contributions of Canadian women and aims to recognize "the extent, the diversity and the crucial value of voluntary action of women in this country." Status of Women Canada hopes this recognition will lead to a greater appreciation of women's volunteer contributions and will inspire women to get involved in their communities.To read the full text visit: www.swc-cfc.gc.ca/whm/whm2001/booklet-e.html.
October 9, 2001
Beginning December 6th, a new federal policy regarding misconduct in research will go into effect in the United States. The policy defines misconduct as "fabrication, falsification, or plagiarism in proposing, performing, or reviewing research, or in reporting research results," essentially outlawing the 'cut and paste' method many grant writers use when preparing requests for funding. According to Richard L. Austin, associate professor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, it will prohibit any plagiarism in grant applications. He states that the policy will "protect the intellectual property of creative grant writing and [punish] those who ask for money while using someone else's words and phrases without permission." To learn more about the new policy on research misconduct, visit: www.ostp.gov/html/001207_3.html.
October 9, 2001
A series of surveys conducted during the month of September to gauge affluent American investors' attitudes toward philanthropy found that people's attitudes toward giving were significantly affected by the attacks. Prior to September 11th, only 20% of those polled believed that charities need the money and that "giving should remain the same regardless of the state of the stock market". After the attacks, 45% agreed with the statement. More than 76% of those polled said charity is more important in our troubled world than ever before, an increase of almost 20%. Eighty-one percent said everyone should feel responsible to give to charity and almost 78% felt people should teach their children about the importance of giving.
The first survey took place September 4-6, 2001. A subsequent survey of the same issues was then conducted on September 23-24, 2001. For more information visit: www.givingcapital.com/info/gc_news/011002_aftermath_giving.adp.
October 1, 2001
A joint research project by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy and the World Alliance for Citizen Participation (CIVICUS) finds that 79% of Canadians believe charitable organizations understand the needs of the average citizen better than do governments. The reports also states that 69% feel these organizations meet the needs of Canadians more effectively than governments. The project was conducted to assess the health and character of civil society in Canada, focusing on four key components: the structure of civil society; the legal, political and socio-cultural space of civil society; the values that civil society represents and advocates and the impact of civil society on social and community well-being. To view the full report, visit: www.nonprofits can.org/civicus-country.htm
October 1, 2001
The final barriers are coming down and the Earth Future Lottery is preparing for its much delayed launch. The proposed web-based charitable lottery, located in PEI, has faced numerous challenges to the legality of its venture from Canada's provincial lotteries. The Interprovincial Lottery Corporation (ILC) maintains that the lottery would violate gaming laws by selling tickets across provincial lines and by using computers to operate the game. The PEI government received advice from an Ontario judge who says the lottery would not violate gaming laws.
The case has now been referred to the Supreme Court but Marshall Pollock, president of Lottery Management (PEI) Inc. and a major proponent of the project, anticipates legal victory. "One of the big things we have been waiting for is the legal reference on the lottery, from what we've seen so far it looks like we're on solid legal ground," he said. Once established, the lottery will function as a fundraising vehicle for a variety of environmental and charitable groups.
October 1, 2001
Michael Halls has donated a record $5 million to benefit ALS research being conducted at the John P. Robarts Research Institute and the Lawson Health Research Institute, the research arm of London Health Sciences Centre. Mr. Halls has lived with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease, since 1997 and hopes his gift will inspire others to support ALS research. "This is an insidious, deadly disease. The more public awareness there is, the more people are going to contribute toward finding a cure," said Halls. ALS is a neuromuscular disease characterized by a progressive degeneration of motor nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. For more information about the John P. Robarts Research Institute visit: www.rri.on.ca and to learn more about the Lawson Health Research Institute visit: www.lhrionhealth.ca.
October 1, 2001
The Canadian population grew by 312,200 between July 2000 and July 2001 and most of the growth can be attributed to a 22% increase in immigration. Immigrants accounted for 252,100 or 80% of the rise in Canada's population. All provinces experienced growth except Newfoundland, Saskatchewan, Yukon and the Northwest Territories, where declines were caused primarily by migration to other provinces. Nunavut reported the highest growth rate at 2.7% followed by Alberta at 1.8%. Ontario continues to be the most populated province with an estimated 11,874,436 inhabitants. -- Statistics Canada
October 1, 2001
Air Canada announced it is cancelling its sponsorship of the annual Air Canada Championship PGA event after 2002. The financially beleaguered airline was facing problems before the attacks in the US and tournament spokesperson Brian Butters thinks "that terrorist incident just put them over the edge." The news also affects many charitable organizations in BC. Through ticket sales, the event has raised more than $4 million dollars for charities to date. The Vancouver-area PGA tour, which has been operating since 1996, must now secure a new sponsor if the event is to continue beyond next year.
October 1, 2001
The fourth annual list of top 100 women business owners reveals that female entrepreneurs are a dynamic force in Canada's economy. Together they generated $2.1 billion in revenue in 2000, almost double from 1999 when the companies on the list recorded only $1.2 billion in sales. Among those that topped the list are LuAnn Mitchell, chair of Mitchell's Gourmet Foods; Rita Tsang, president and CEO of Tour East Holidays; and Madeleine Paquin, president and CEO of Logistec Corp. Though many of the companies listed aren't familiar to most people their products are, including Timothy's Coffees, Lise Watier Cosmétiques Inc. and Key Porter Books. For more information visit: www.profitguide.com/w100/ 2001/.
October 1, 2001
The Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) will receive a $4.5 million investment from TransAlta, the largest cash investment in the institute's history. The investment is part of TransAlta's efforts to take a proactive role in maintaining and building a well trained and competitive power engineering workforce. The funds will be used to construct the TransAlta Electrical Power Industry Centre (epiCentre), which will offer instruction in conventional and alternate sources of power generation. To learn more visit: www.sait.ab.ca/feature1.htm.
October 1, 2001
Despite the deteriorating situation for civilians in Afghanistan, humanitarian agencies, including Canadian Red Cross, Oxfam Canada, Médecins Sans Frontières Canada, the Mennonite Central Committee and others, continue to maintain a presence in that country and in refugee communities along its borders. Their work includes the distribution of food, patient care, provision of measles vaccination, support to the pediatric ward and hospital training and supervision. International staff have been evacuated from Afghanistan but more than 1,000 locally hired staff are working to maintain vital services. Unfortunately, with borders closed food distribution by the World Food Program has come to a standstill and only a few weeks of stock remain. Canadian humanitarian organizations are urging Canada to honour its responsibilities under the International Humanitarian Law to ensure the dignity and protection of ordinary citizens everywhere. To learn more about the International Humanitarian Law, visit: www.icrc.org/eng/ihl.
October 1, 2001
The Donner Canadian Foundation is looking for the fourth annual recipient of the Donner Prize, a $25,000 award for the year's best book on Canadian public policy. In awarding the prize the foundation seeks to encourage research into public policy in Canada and to promote the discussion of policy issues in the public arena. Last year's winner was Tom Flanagan for his controversial book First Nations? Second Thoughts.
Books submitted for consideration should have a Canadian focus on such public policy issues as: regulatory and legal reform, public finance, the environment, urban affairs, health care, educational reform and social policy. For the 2001 prize, books written by Canadians in either English or French, between January 1, and December 31, 2001, are eligible. For more information contact the prize manager, Meisner Publicity at (416) 656-3722 or (416) 652-1947, email: meisner@interlog.com or visit: donnerbookprize.c om/english/e-toc.html.
October 1, 2001
The emergency department of the North York General Hospital will now be known as the Charlotte & Lewis Steinberg Emergency thanks to a $2 million donation from the couple. "This is one of the largest individual gifts in the history of the hospital, and we are delighted that the Steinberg family has chosen to support this vital community service," says David Shaw, Chair of the Stand by Me Campaign. Their gift brings the hospital to 77% of its $35 million fundraising goal. Lewis Steinberg, retired vice president of Steinberg's Inc., an international grocery, retail and real estate enterprise says, "the hospital has stood by the community all this time. Now it is time to stand by them." For more information visit: www.nygh.on.ca/pr092401.htm.
October 1, 2001
The October 31 application deadline is fast approaching for the TD Canada Trust Scholarships for Outstanding Community Leadership. The scholarship program acknowledges youth who have shown a consistent effort to assist in the improvement of their communities. Past recipients demonstrated leadership in such areas as local employment programs, environmental clean-up, support group creation, and family services initiatives. Students in their final year of high school are invited to submit applications for one of twenty scholarships, valued up to $50,000. To obtain an application, eligible students are encouraged to visit a TD Canada Trust branch or their high school guidance office; call 1-800-308-8306 or visit: www.tdcanadatrust.com/ scholarship.
October 1, 2001
The creator of BIG Online is inviting prospect researchers and their respective organizations to submit proposals and letters that have won grants from foundations and corporations. Granting organizations may also nominate charities that have submitted outstanding proposals and letters. Members of the donations committees from the Imperial Oil Charitable Foundation, Weyerhaeuser Company, and Metasoft Systems Inc. will lead the panel of judges and over $5,000 in cash and prizes will be awarded to the winners. Deadline for submissions is December 15, 2001. Prizes will be awarded in February 2002. For more information visit: www.bigdatabase.com
|
|||
