Send CharityVillage your feedback on the nonprofit sector!
June 29, 2009
Got an opinion on what the nonprofit sector needs now? We're all ears! Sign up to take part in our upcoming online focus group, survey, or both. CharityVillage is partnering with Junxion Research to determine how we can help you continue to do great things in your community. For more information and to take the survey, visit: tinyurl.com/allears.
Not-for-Profit Corporations Act receives Royal Assent
June 29, 2009
New federal legislation that will streamline the regulatory burden on Canada's not-for-profit sector has been given Royal Assent and is ready to become law, the Honourable Diane Ablonczy, Minister of State (Small Business and Tourism) announced. Bill C-4, the Canada Not-for-Profit Corporations Act, passed Third Reading in the Senate and received Royal Assent. The federal government states that the act will enable organizations to incorporate faster and improve their financial accountability, clarify the roles and responsibilities of directors and officers, and enhance the protection of members' rights. For more information, visit: news.gc.ca.
Philanthropist gives $10.5 million to Ontario independent school
June 29, 2009
Hillfield Strathallan College announced a $10.5 million donation from industrialist and philanthropist Michael G. DeGroote, as the anchor contribution toward its Transformation HSC Campaign, a $34-million investment to create new learning spaces at its Fennell Street West Campus. This donation is the largest single gift ever made to an independent school in Canada. The Transformation HSC capital campaign will help build a completely new senior school with dynamic, multi-purpose learning spaces and tools, as well as a major community athletic facility. For more information, visit: www.hsc.on.ca.
HR Council releases final Labour Force Study Report
June 29, 2009
For the past two and a half years, the HR Council for the Voluntary & Non-profit Sector (HR Council) has been conducting a comprehensive Labour Force Study. The HR Council has released the study’s final report, Mission Driven, which features five recommendations that will shape strategies to attract, develop, and retain appropriately qualified people to work in
Canada’s nonprofit sector. The recommendations presented in this report were developed by the Labour Force Study Steering Committee and are based on evidence presented in the study’s two earlier reports. For more information, visit: www.hrcouncil.ca. (PDF)
Fast Fact: Canadian boards still struggling for diversity
June 29, 2009
A new Canadian report indicates that women have made some strides in closing the gender gap when it comes to nonprofit board diversity. The report found that women hold almost 44% of the seats on nonprofit boards in Canada, and 62% of respondents to the survey, typically leaders of an organization, were women. Ethnic diversity did not seem to fare so well in the report, with whites the most likely to be on boards (average of 87.6%), followed by Aboriginal (average of 8.2%) and South Asian (average of 7.4%). In terms of the range of diversity, 43.6% of the organizations selected had only one group present (in almost every case this meant that the boards are all white, although there were some boards that had all Aboriginal members), 23.3% had two groups, 18.1% had three groups, 9.7% had four groups, and only 5.2% had five or more groups represented among their board members. This indicates that the majority of boards in Canada have little to no ethnic diversity at all. -- Schulich School of Business
Aboriginal students benefit from $1 million donation to UBC
June 29, 2009
The University of British Columbia (UBC) received a $1 million donation from TD Bank Financial Group to create an endowment that will provide a lasting legacy in business education for Aboriginal students. The gift will improve access and support for Aboriginal learners pursuing a business education. The donation is the largest gift received in support of Aboriginal education at UBC. The gift will be divided equally between two programs. The TD Bank Aboriginal Student Award will establish an endowment to create financial awards for Aboriginal students across UBC Vancouver and UBC Okanagan who are enrolled in business education or majoring in economics. The Ch'nook Business Education Initiative will provide funding for Aboriginal students who are enrolled in the Ch'nook Scholars and Advanced Management programs. It will also provide mentorship opportunities for TD employees as a means of supporting these students in their pursuit of business education.
For more information, visit: www.publicaffairs.ubc.ca.
Study finds large increase in foundation giving to benefit women and girls
June 29, 2009
Foundation giving specifically targeted to benefit women and girls has surpassed the rate of overall foundation giving in recent years, and women's funds are a rapidly growing and influential force within philanthropy, according to a new US report jointly released by the Foundation Center and the Women's Funding Network. The study found that between 1990 and 2006, giving directed to women and girls by the broader foundation community climbed 223%, after adjusting for inflation, compared to an overall giving increase of 177%. Giving by the 55 women's funds analyzed in the report also rose an inflation-adjusted 24% between 2004 and 2006, while foundation giving overall increased only 14.8% in the same period. While this growth is promising, the study also notes that foundation giving targeting women and girls remains a small percentage of their overall giving.
For more information, visit: www.foundationcenter.org.
Health of Aboriginal children a major Canadian rights issue, report states
June 29, 2009
The health of Aboriginal children in Canada falls well below national averages and is one of the most significant children’s rights issues facing the country, concludes a newly released Canadian supplement to the UNICEF State of the World’s Children 2009 report. Despite some progress, Aboriginal children continue to suffer from a much greater burden of poor health than non-Aboriginal children, faring worse than national averages in almost all health status indicators, such as diabetes and suicide rates, as well as in the conditions that influence health, such as poverty and access to clean water. UNICEF joined forces with the National Collaborating Centre for Aboriginal Health to launch the report Aboriginal Children's Health: Leaving No Child Behind. For more information and to download the full report, visit: www.nccah-ccnsa.ca.
Fast Fact: Maritime universities continue with high participation rates
June 29, 2009
Participation in Maritime universities has more than doubled over the past 25 years to 34%, a full eight points higher than the national average. Overall participation rates are also high, with Nova Scotia at 39%, Prince Edward Island at 25%, and New Brunswick at 28%. About 27% of Maritime university enrollment is made up of students from outside of the region. This seems to account for the high overall participation in Maritime universities relative to the number of Maritime youth. -- Maritime Provinces Higher Education Commission
Nominate a mental health or addiction initiative for national award
June 29, 2009
The Kaiser Foundation announced its call for nominations for the 2010 National Awards for Excellence Program in mental health and addictions initiatives.
The program honours the outstanding work being done by the thousands of Canadian organizations, communities, individuals and media who are engaged in the fields of mental health and addictions. Each award recipient receives a $10,000 grant to be directed to a recognized charity of their choice.
Nominations are solicited widely from across Canada, and awards are handed out in seven categories. For more information and to submit a nomination, visit: www.kaiserfoundation.ca.
Apply now for pro bono strategy consulting services
June 29, 2009
Endeavor Volunteer Consulting Network helps nonprofits improve and sustain their impact by providing pro bono strategy consulting in various business areas, including strategic planning, marketing strategy, earned income venture feasibility studies and more. Endeavor is currently accepting project applications from nonprofits for Fall 2009/Winter 2010 consulting engagements. The deadline for applications is August 1, 2009. Applications received after the deadline will be considered for Spring/Summer 2010 projects. For more information, including eligibility requirements, visit: www.evcn.ca.
UK report advocates use of cell phones as an important fundraising technique
June 29, 2009
A new UK report, completed by nfpSynergy, the Charities Aid Foundation, and the Institute of Fundraising, indicates that charities are not doing enough to use cell phones in their fundraising and advocacy efforts. The report, titled Sending out an SMS: The potential of mobile phones and
text messaging for charities and non-profit organisations, outlines how cell phones are used in society, examines ways in which donors could give money by text messaging, offers ideas on how charities could integrate cell phones into their fundraising plans, and also includes case studies of organizations that have successfully used this new fundraising technique. For more information and to download the full report, visit: www.nfpsynergy.net. (PDF)
CRA revokes status of Living Waters Ministry Trust
June 22, 2009
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) revoked the charitable registration of Living Waters Ministry Trust, a London-area charity, effective June 6, 2009. A CRA audit found that the charity issued in excess of $41.6 million in receipts for cash received through a tax shelter arrangement. They then directed $40.7 million of the cash to another registered charity also participating in this arrangement. The audit also revealed that the vast majority of the cash sent to the other participating charity was subsequently paid to the promoters of the tax shelter arrangement. Of the remainder, the charity itself paid $443,000 in fundraising fees to the tax shelter promoters and retained $416,000 for use in their own activities. For more information, visit: www.cra-arc.gc.ca.
Canadians raise more than $1.2 million for Wheels in Motion
June 22, 2009
The seventh annual Wheels In Motion event wrapped up last weekend, and preliminary results indicate that communities across Canada raised at least $1.2 million. Thousands came out to raise money and awareness for people living with spinal cord injury, including hundreds of volunteers. Event founder Rick Hansen commented, “It is inspiring to see so many people give their hard earned time and money to support Wheels In Motion. Thank you to all of our volunteers, participants and donors for making this year’s event a success and keeping the dream of an accessible world and cure for spinal cord injury alive.” For more information, visit: www.wheelsinmotion.org.
Alberta changes granting criteria for Community Initiatives Program
June 22, 2009
The government of Alberta released new criteria for their Community Initiatives Program (CIP). As part of the changes, $6 million of the CIP has been set aside for small, community-based, human services organizations and international development programs. Criteria for the CIP and the Community Facility Enhancement Program (CFEP) are also being adjusted to reduce duplication with other programs. Changes include the following:
- applications for playground project grants will be directed to CFEP, which provides financial assistance to build, repair, renovate or otherwise improve community-use facilities throughout the province; and
- caps will be set on projects that are able to access other government and private funding sources, including a maximum of $10,000 for travel, and $50,000 for school technology projects.
Several changes to the granting process have also been made. For more information, visit: alberta.ca.
Get help with Income Tax Act compliance through new charity program
June 22, 2009
Capacity Builders is pleased to announce the Charity Law Information Program (CLIP), a new initiative funded by the Canada Revenue Agency to assist charities with their Income Tax Act compliance. Through the program, charities can:
- Learn about affordable upcoming workshops and webinars
- Get free links to plain-language tools and templates
- Access practical advice from lead trainer and charity law expert Mark Blumberg
- Special emphasis will be placed on helping small and rural charities
The training and support CLIP will provide is best suited to your executive director, board chair and treasurer,
or the designated person responsible for completing your CRA public information form (T3010). In order to stay informed, and to receive free tools, resources, and training updates, please subscribe to CLIP's free e-newsletter. For more information and to subscribe, visit: capacitybuilders.ca/clip.php
Fast Fact: Religious organizations still tops for Canadian donors
June 22, 2009
According to a new Canadian survey, religious organizations were the biggest beneficiaries of charitable giving in 2007, receiving more than three times the donations than did the second most popular type of organization, health groups. Slightly over one-third (36%) of donors gave to religious organizations in 2007. These organizations received $4.6 billion, 46% of the total amount donated nationally. Health organizations, the second biggest beneficiary of charitable giving, received money from 56% of donors, the largest support base. They collected $1.5 billion, or 15% of total donations. Religious organizations also received the largest percentage of volunteer hours (18%), followed by sports and recreation (17%), social services (16%), and education and research organizations (11%). -- Statistics Canada
US report shows slight decline in national giving levels
June 22, 2009
Charitable giving in the United States exceeded $300 billion for the second year in a row in 2008, according to Giving USA 2009. Donations to charitable causes in the United States reached an estimated $307.65 billion in 2008, a 2% drop in current dollars over 2007.
The 2008 number is the first decline in giving in current dollars since 1987, and the second since Giving USA began publishing annual reports in 1956.
Two-thirds of public charities receiving donations saw decreases in 2008. The exceptions were in the categories of religion, public-society benefit, and international affairs. The report is researched and written for Giving USA Foundation by the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University.
For more information, visit: givingusa.org. (PDF)
Apply now to distribute water on Toronto’s streets
June 22, 2009
Project Water, a volunteer-based organization that evolved in response to the dehydration crisis that people on the streets face during the summer months, is now accepting applications from frontline service providers with no access to running water (i.e. outreach programs). Organizations can submit one request form for each of their programs and should include a brief (2-3 lines maximum) description of each program. Project Water will compile all requests and contact recipients directly for pickup information. All applications should be submitted online by June 30, 2009.
For more information, visit: www.bargainsgroup.com.
Participate in a new survey and help revise the Virtual Volunteering Guidebook
June 22, 2009
Jayne Cravens, co-author of The Virtual Volunteering Guidebook, is looking for your participation in a new survey designed to gather more information for a revised edition. If you have ever been a volunteer, or if you have worked with volunteers in any capacity, Jayne wants to hear from you. When talking about your experience, you can discuss more than one organization, but remember that most questions relate to your experience only regarding volunteering or working with volunteers. The survey is not limited to any country or region. For more information, and to take the survey, visit: www.surveymonkey.com.
Nominate a Burnaby resident for their community contributions
June 22, 2009
Do you know someone who made an exceptional contribution to community well-being in Burnaby, BC? If so, the City of Burnaby wants to hear from you. The deadline for nominations for the city's 13th annual Local Hero Awards is Tuesday June 30, 2009. Nominations are accepted from businesses, community groups, and the general public, and each nomination must have the support of two nominators. For more information, and to submit a nomination, visit: www.burnaby.ca. (PDF)
Fast Fact: Survey finds generational divide with certain social networking sites
June 22, 2009
A new US survey reveals that almost nine out of ten Gen Ys, and 67% of Gen Xers have a profile on Facebook, as opposed to only 43% of their parents and grandparents. This is not the only division between the generations. Only 18% of respondents aged 55 and over have a Twitter account, as compared with 25% of younger respondents. YouTube has universal appeal, with 76% of all respondents using the site. Also, more than 50% of all respondents have opened a LinkedIn account, although its appeal seems to be strongest with college graduates. -- Success Performance Solutions
Students come out in droves for Change the World volunteering initiative
June 22, 2009
In late April, youth from across the entire Region of Peel were
encouraged to participate in a provincial challenge to “change the world” by volunteering at various
events throughout the community during National Volunteer Week. More than 400 students across the Region of Peel participated and committed to a minimum of five hours of volunteering at one of five different events. For more information, visit: www.volunteermbc.org.
Read the new Canada Survey of Giving, Volunteering, and Participating
June 15, 2009
New data released from the largest Canadian study on giving and volunteering reveals how key segments of the population support one another and their ommunities.
Findings from the 2007 Canada Survey of Giving, Volunteering and Participating (CSGVP) provide a portrait of activities that are integral to the Canadian social fabric and allow us to understand how and why Canadians contribute to their communities, either through donations, volunteering, or helping fellow Canadians directly.
In 2007, Canadians donated a total of $10 billion, an increase of 12% or $1.1 billion since 2004, and volunteered 2.1 billion hours, a 4.2% increase. The average donation increased to $437 from $400 in 2004, while the average number of volunteer hours remained about the same at 166 hours. The bulk of support continues to come from a narrow segment of the population: 21% of Canadians account for 82% of the total value of donations, and 12% of Canadians account for 78% of all volunteer hours.
CharityVillage’s Cover Story this week contains a recap of the survey and insight from senior researchers.
To read Imagine Canada’s press release in PDF format, click here. To download the full survey results, visit: www.givingandvolunteering.ca.
Canada Revenue Agency releases new fundraising policy
June 15, 2009
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) released new information clarifying fundraising for registered charities. This new guidance policy replaces the pre-existing document, Applicants that are Established to Hold Periodic Fundraisers. According to a press release issued by the Association of Fundraising Professionals, the document is quite different in some areas from the initial draft published last year, and as a "live" document will continue to require clarification on different points. For more information, visit: www.cra-arc.gc.ca.
BC donors give $15.3 million to the BC Children’s Hospital
June 15, 2009
BC Children's Hospital Foundation raised $15.3 million during the 22nd annual Miracle Weekend, the culmination of fundraising efforts throughout the year, with events including everything from school fundraisers to golf tournaments to black-tie galas. The 12-hour Miracle Weekend Telethon was broadcast on Global BC, ending with the announcement of the total at 6pm on Sunday. Donations to the Miracle Weekend are used to support the purchase of life-saving equipment, research into the treatment, prevention and cure of childhood diseases, recruitment, and educational programs for caregivers, and programs in communities throughout the province. For more information, visit: www.bcchf.ca.
Ottawa group loses charitable status because of tax shelter involvement
June 15, 2009
According to a report by the Ottawa Citizen, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) recently revoked the charitable status of an organization called Healing and Assistance Not Dependence Canada. An audit conducted by the CRA concluded that the charity was participating in a tax shelter scheme and that they were paying cash to other bodies involved in the scheme. The organization’s predecessor also had its status revoked, and the CRA alleges that the organization simply restructured to continue the tax shelter scheme. For more information, visit: www.ottawacitizen.com
Fast Fact: Nonprofits struggle to implement online programs
June 15, 2009
In a new US study, nine out of ten organizations polled indicated that staffing shortages are their biggest barrier to creating successful online programs. Budget constraints were also cited by 64%, and lack of online expertise by 29%. Almost 70% had three or fewer staff dedicated to working on online programs. This shortage is not limited to small organizations, as 92% of organizations with revenue of over $100 million also reported staffing shortages as their top barrier. Online staff spend an average of 28% of their time on web administration, 24% on design and creative elements, 15% on campaign management, 15% on strategy, 11% on analysis, and 7% on usability. -- Convio
New report sheds light on community, health, and poverty issues in Canada
June 15, 2009
The Canadian Index of Wellbeing (CIW) released its first report last week, and although there are improvements in some areas, others are troubling. Canadians are living longer but are not healthier, and health among teenagers is especially worrying. At the same time, the report found that crime is down and social relationships in communities are stronger. “It is gratifying to see how strongly Canadians identify with their community and that that connection is growing stronger,” says Monica Patten, president and CEO of Community Foundations of Canada (CFC). Patten commended the release of the first CIW reports, saying the index and the reports that contribute to its creation will provide policymakers with critical context about the health of the country and its communities.
For more information, and to view the full report, visit: www.ciw.ca.
Metcalf Foundation releases report on vocational renewal for nonprofit leaders
June 15, 2009
A new paper by Metcalf Innovation Fellow Patricia Thompson, called Being the Change We Want: A Conversation about Vocational Renewal for Nonprofit Leaders, reflects on growing evidence that an increasing number of not-for-profit leaders are leaving their positions citing burnout, excessive pressures, poor compensation, and stress. A decreasing number of young people are choosing leadership paths in the sector for many of the same reasons, indicating that organizations may be neglecting the person who leads in their urgency to affect change on a larger scale.
For more information, and to download the full report, visit: www.metcalffoundation.com.
Participate in a new working group to discuss tax harmonization in Ontario
June 15, 2009
The Ontario Nonprofit Network (ONN) has several constellations, committees, and working groups exploring different themes, all in various stages of evolution and activity. ONN is now forming a new constellation that will look into the impact of the tax harmonization on nonprofits. The changes to the tax system in Ontario are set to replace the current retail sales tax (RST) with a broader based, value-added tax (VAT) harmonized with the federal GST. For more information, contact ONN at info@ontariononprofitnetwork.
Fast Fact: Twitter’s popularity still limited in Canada
June 15, 2009
A new study shows that only 26% of online Canadians are aware of Twitter. Of those, 6% reported using the social networking tool. This only equates to 1.45% of the Internet population, or about 1% of the population as a whole. Not surprisingly, awareness of Twitter is higher among 18-34 year olds (32% awareness). Awareness is also significantly higher among those online Canadians with university educations (34%, compared to only 19% of those with a high school education or less). Interestingly, awareness is significantly lower in Quebec (only 7%). -- Ipsos Reid
Ottawa walkers raise $2.1 million for breast cancer treatment and research
June 15, 2009
The Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation announced that 1,000 participants raised $2.1 million in Ottawa’s fourth annual Weekend to End Breast Cancer event. With an expanded mandate developed this year, the annual 60 kilometre walk now seeks to fight all women’s cancers, step by step. To date, the event has been able to raise more than $8 million. These monies continue to finance critical research, treatment, and care for breast cancer. It now also supports initiatives to fight gynecological cancers such as uterine, ovarian, and endometrial cancers. For more information about the campaign, visit: ot09.endcancer.ca.
Don’t miss your opportunity to comment on new financial reporting standards
June 15, 2009
Earlier this year, the Accounting Standards Board and the Public Sector Accounting Board issued an Invitation to Comment: Financial Reporting by Not-For-Profit Organizations. This document proposes a number of alternatives to the current accounting standards used by nonprofit organizations in Canada. On June 2, 2009, the Ontario Nonprofit Network and Imagine Canada hosted a webinar to discuss these issues, which is now available online. There are two ways that you can participate in this important consultation process:
- Sign on to the response prepared by the Ontario Nonprofit Network and Imagine Canada by contacting Siobhan Moran by June 23, 2009.
- Send your own response to ed.accounting@cica.ca by June 30, 2009.
To download a copy of the slideshow presented at the webinar in PDF format, visit: www.imaginecanada.ca. To download the accompanying sound recording, visit: admin.na3.acrobat.com.
Paintings donated to Toronto Goodwill store fetch $150,000 at auction
June 15, 2009
According to a report by cbc.ca, two paintings that were dropped off at a Toronto Goodwill store were purchased for more than $150,000 at an auction last week. The paintings, done by Peruvian artist Federico del Campo in Venice in the 19th century, were purchased by an anonymous donor from overseas. One painting was sold for $80,700 while the other netted $78,400, a significant increase from their pre-sale estimates of $30,000 to $50,000 each. "Goodwill received these as a regular donation," said Goodwill spokeswoman Mitzie Hunter. "They just came into our store and the items were place in our donations sorting area for pricing. Our manager, when she touched the paintings, realized that they were something special and set them aside to be able to research who the artist was." For more information, visit: www.goodwill.on.ca.
Atlantic Canada raises $5 million for children’s health
June 8, 2009
The IWK Health Centre Foundation announced that the 25th Annual IWK Telethon for Children raised $5.4 million. "We are extremely excited and thankful to all of our donors who have made this happen," said Robbie Shaw, president of the foundation. "The IWK has enormous needs and every dollar counts." Donations will help purchase priority medical equipment, fund groundbreaking research, and support special programs like bilingual services. Callers donated money to purchase items such as SMART pumps (an automated prescription dispenser) and fund programs like spiritual health services.
For more information, visit: www.iwkfoundation.org.
Canadian food banks experience large increase in users
June 8, 2009
Food Banks Canada is reporting an approximately 20% increase in the number of Canadians turning to food banks each month and, as a result, food banks across the country are facing unprecedented challenges providing essential food to those in need. This increase is based on initial survey results on food bank usage in March of this year compared to March 2008. Some regions across the country are seeing an even greater demand. In Penticton, British Columbia, the food bank has experienced a 37% increase in food bank usage since last year, with the increase mainly attributed to recent layoffs. In North Bay, Ontario, the local food bank is in a similar situation, in part because of job losses in the mining sector. For more information, visit: www.foodbankscanada.ca.
Alberta nonprofit leaders create workforce council to address HR issues
June 8, 2009
Leaders from Alberta’s nonprofit and voluntary sector met last week to launch the Alberta Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Workforce Council, an initiative connecting networks and organizations in Alberta to address common workforce issues.
The Workforce Council will coordinate the implementation of the Workforce Strategy for Alberta’s Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector. Chronic understaffing, lower than average salaries, and demanding workloads are just some of the challenges faced by volunteers, staff, and employers in the nonprofit and voluntary sector. The strategy is a collaborative approach developed by the nonprofit and voluntary sector to find solutions to the human resource challenges. For more information, visit: www.calgarycvo.org. (PDF)
Community Foundations of Canada creates new youth grants program
June 8, 2009
Community Foundations of Canada (CFC) and the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) are joining forces to support young people who want to make a difference in their communities with a new program designed to strengthen youth participation and leadership in civic life. CFC’s Youth Advisory Councils will identify projects for support in four provinces: Saskatchewan, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick. Projects must involve youth and/or be youth-oriented (12-25 years) and focus on three sub-themes: youth and education, youth and the environment, and youth and science and technology. The program will run throughout 2009.
For more information contact Barbara McMillan at bmcmillan@cfc-fcc.ca or 604.986.3084.
Fast Fact: Facebook remains the top social networking site
June 8, 2009
New US research indicates that the number of minutes spent online using social networking sites increased by 83% in a one-year period, from April 2008 to April 2009. Facebook remains the number one social networking site and, in the same period, saw the number of minutes spent on their site increase by 700%, from 1.7 billion to 13.9 billion. MySpace remains the second most popular but they saw a 31% decline in minutes spent on their site. Twitter is showing incredible growth with a 3,712% increase in minutes spent on their site in the one-year period. -- Nielsen Online
CRA will continue to host webinars for charities
June 8, 2009
The Charities Directorate of the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) launched a pilot project in February 2009 to test the use of webinars as an additional communication channel for reaching out to charities across Canada. A webinar is an online, interactive presentation similar to a charities information session. Thanks to the success of the February 2009 pilot webinars, the CRA has decided to continue to pilot webinars for the next year. Previously recorded webcasts are currently available on the site for easy viewing.
For more information, visit: www.cra-arc.gc.ca.
Apply for local and provincial health funding in Ontario
June 8, 2009
The Healthy Communities Fund, an initiative of the Ontario Ministry of Health Promotion’s new Healthy Communities approach, is calling for applications for their local and provincial funding programs. The fund supports provincial and community organizations to plan and deliver integrated initiatives that address multiple risk factors and promote health and wellness, at all levels, across the province. Applications for the local funding stream must be received by noon on July 24, while applications for provincial funding must be received by noon on June 24.
For more information, visit: www.mhp.gov.on.ca.
Aga Khan Foundation Canada raises $2 million at Vancouver walk
June 8, 2009
According to a report by the Vancouver Province, the annual World Partnership Walk in Vancouver attracted more than 10,000 participants and raised over $2 million for development and education programs in Asia and Africa. Hosted by the Aga Khan Foundation, the walk is held in cities across Canada and has raised $45 million since it began. "We planted a little seed in the ground and the seed just grew," said Izzat Mawani, one of the 17 founders of the walk. "We were so lucky and privileged, we wanted to leave some money for women in the third world. But we never thought it would come to this point. It sends shivers down my spine." For more information about the World Partnership Walk, visit: www.worldpartnershipwalk.com.
Fast Fact: Supervisors lack tools needed for employee health and productivity
June 8, 2009
A new research brief concludes that far too many supervisors and managers in the Canadian workplace are not equipped to deal with employee health, productivity, absenteeism, disability, and employees returning to work after an absence. Surprisingly, 84% of respondents said that supervisors in their organizations do not receive data on real-time employee absence. Another 81% said their organization does not have a process to address intermittent problems with employee absence. Sixty-four percent said their organization does not have a process in place to support employees returning to work after an illness or disability, and 84% said their organization has no procedures for addressing significant changes or problems in employee productivity or behaviour. -- Shepell-fgi
College fundraising campaign surpasses goal by $7 million
June 8, 2009
Sheridan College wrapped up a three-year fundraising campaign by surpassing its goal of $30 million and raising $37 million for its campuses in Oakville and Brampton. The Student Capital Campaign was launched in 2006 with the goal of raising funds to meet the space and technology demands of Sheridan's growing student body. The funds raised have gone toward four priority projects and areas at Sheridan. They've already helped build the Sheridan Animation Centre, the Sheridan Centre for Healthy Communities in Brampton, the new Davis Campus student learning commons, and are helping the college to meet the advancing technology and equipment needs of students. For more information about the campaign, visit: www1.sheridaninstitute.ca.
Online resources now available for personal support workers
June 8, 2009
With the goal of improving the quality of care provided to seniors across Ontario, a new online community has launched that offers personal support workers a forum for sharing knowledge and information. The Personal Support Workers Community of Practice (PSW CoP) is a free knowledge exchange network for PSWs working with seniors in long term care or the community in Ontario. It is supported by the Seniors Health Research Transfer Network (SHRTN) and led by the Personal Support Network of Ontario (PSNO). The PSW CoP supports its members through monthly educational events, webinars, teleconferences, and through the new online forum. Experts in the field will be online periodically to answer questions and moderate discussions.
For more information, visit: www.psno.ca/.
Hull family donates $10 million to Ontario hospital
June 1, 2009
Mrs. Helen Hull announced a
$10 million gift in support of Humber River Regional Hospital in honour of her late husband, Marian (Murphy) Hull. Forty years ago Mr. Hull donated property so that the York-Finch Hospital could be built,
which is now the Finch site of Humber River Regional Hospital. The Hull gift will be used by the hospital to help with the
implementation of the hospital's new model of care, which includes a new
state-of-the-art hospital and an
expanded ambulatory and urgent care facility at the hospital's current Finch
site.
For more information about the Humber River Regional Hospital, visit: www.hrrh.on.ca.
Canadians leaving more money to charity in their wills
June 1, 2009
According to a recent survey conducted by the FLA Group, Canadians are leaving more money to charity in their wills than last year, despite the recession. An estimated 1.4 million Canadians have left gifts to charities in their wills, and an equal
number are considering making legacy gifts. A total of 9% of respondents indicated they have included a charity in their will, up from 7% last year. The survey also found that direct mail donors are twice as likely to make a charitable bequest. For more information, visit: www.theflagroup.com.
Participate in a new national nonprofit salary survey
June 1, 2009
The annual Boland Survey of Not for Profit Salaries is going national this year with plans to publish new regional reports for Manitoba/Saskatchewan and Atlantic Canada, in addition to existing reports for Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario.
The survey provides confidential salary data for more than 60 positions, along with comprehensive information about turnover, training, hours of work, paid time off, policies and benefits. More than 230 organizations participated in 2008. The survey reports are published in October and are available only to participating organizations. To learn more, or to participate, visit: www.ptbaconsulting.com or contact Peter Boland at (403) 215-0090.
Fast Fact: Charity websites are good multitaskers
June 1, 2009
A UK study found that charities are using their websites for more diverse functions than ever. Sixty percent of the respondents' websites have an email newsletter, 35% the ability to submit job applications, 33% user registration, 24% a chatroom or online discussion forum, and 18% interactive training courses and games. These have all increased since the 2007 survey. However, some notable areas did see declines, including blogs, which fell from 16% to 2%, and event signup/registration, which fell from 36% to 20%. -- nfpSynergy
Comments needed on changes to current nonprofit accounting standards
June 1, 2009
Earlier this year the Accounting Standards Board and the Public Sector Accounting Board issued an Invitation to Comment: Financial Reporting by Not-For-Profit Organizations. The Ontario Nonprofit Network and Imagine Canada have now created a position paper relating to this document, which they are circulating across the sector in order to get as much feedback as possible. Interested parties can participate either by acknowledging support of the position paper by June 18th, or by developing their own position for submission direct to the Standards Boards by the end of June.
ONN and Imagine Canada will be hosting a webinar on June 2nd from 1pm to 2pm (EDT) to provide further details on the positions being proposed. There is no charge for the webinar but participants must register in advance.
For more information, and to register for the webinar, visit: www.easywebcanada.ca.
$2 million gift buys new equipment for Ontario hospital
June 1, 2009
North York General Hospital announced a
$2 million gift from Charlotte and Lewis Steinberg, ensuring patients will have
access to the most advanced mammography technology available. This
state-of-the-art digital mammography with tomosynthesis technology is the
latest innovation in breast cancer screening and diagnosis, improving the
chances for early detection and identifying breast cancer tumours as small as
a few millimetres.
The Steinbergs have a long history with North York General Hospital,
having supported many programs including funding for the breast services' first sentinel node machines.
For more information, visit: www.nygh.on.ca.
Canada-wide funding available for environmental projects
June 1, 2009
The TD Friends of the Environment Foundation (TD FEF) is a national organization with a grassroots focus that supports local environmental projects and works with people who want to protect and preserve the environment in their own backyard. Canadian nonprofits, municipal governments, and educational institutions can apply online for funding that typically ranges from several hundred to several thousands of dollars, depending on the scope and size of the project. TD FEF supports a wide range of projects including:
- Wildlife rehabilitation
- Education programs for children
- Environmental cleanups
- Tree planting campaigns
- Conservation and recycling initiatives
- Urban renewal
Applications are accepted year-round but should be submitted well in advance of the project start date, as TD FEF does not provide retroactive funding. For more information, including full eligibility requirements, visit: www.fef.td.com.
Ontario nonprofits needed to participate in leadership survey
June 1, 2009
A new study will seek to understand the current state of leadership development for Ontario's nonprofit sector and explore alternative approaches to better serve the future leadership needs of nonprofit organizations. The study, conducted by J. Wagner Consulting Inc., will consider the issues, priorities and challenges of the different sectors and types of nonprofit organizations, as well as unique solutions to these challenges. The survey takes about 10 to 15 minutes and must be completed by June 11th. To participate, visit: www.surveymethods.com.
Fast Fact: Charity shops benefitting from the recession
June 1, 2009
A UK survey indicates that charity stores in Britain are experiencing a "mini boom" as shoppers are increasingly interested in cutting costs. The survey found that 13% of respondents started shopping at charity thrift stores this year, while 18% of those who already shop in the stores are buying more. Another 21% of respondents have begun to donate goods to the shops. Asked why they were using a charity thrift store, 66% indicated they wanted to support the charity, 47% said they liked the low prices, and 44%
felt the value was good for their money. The top five items purchased at charity thrift stores were books (65%), clothes (45%), household items (32%), DVDs/videos (24%), and music (15%) -- YouGov
BC charities hurting as NDP stop donating their pay raises
June 1, 2009
According to a report by theglobeandmail.com, the provincial NDP party has decided to stop donating their pay increases to local charities. The party's policy of donating salary increases came in response to controversial pay increases approved in 2007, and allowed MLAs to keep their increased pension benefits but required them to donate the pay increase to charity. Organizations such as the Mary Manning Centre, the Downtown Eastside Women's Centre and the United Way had all benefitted from the policy. For more information, visit: www.theglobeandmail.com.
Hospital telethon raises more than $500,000
June 1, 2009
EastLink Television and the Queen
Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) Foundation are celebrating another record-breaking
fundraiser with the success of this year's QEH/EastLink 21-Hour
Equipment Drive. The telethon raised
$507,946 and funds raised will go toward the
purchase of 60 new medical/surgical beds for nursing units of the hospital,
including 20 for the newly announced Acute and Provincial Rehabilitation
Stroke Units. The annual telethon is a cornerstone of the foundation's
fundraising efforts, whose mission is to raise funds for medical equipment for
the QEH.
For more information about the QEH Foundation, visit: www.qehfoundation.pe.ca.
Benjamin Moore announces support for community and heritage groups
June 1, 2009
Thirty-three community agencies across Canada are receiving grants and Benjamin Moore paint as part of the Benjamin Moore Community Restoration Program, a partnership between Benjamin Moore and Community Foundations of Canada. The renovation and heritage restoration projects, range from restoring a vaudeville theatre to refurbishing program space for an immigrant women’s organization.
This year, the program is awarding $75,000 in grants and more than $14,000 in paint to community groups in 20 communities across Canada, from Kelowna, BC to Sydney, NS.
The application process for the 2010 Benjamin Moore Community Restoration Program will begin in October 2009. For more information on how to apply, visit: www.cfc-fcc.ca.
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