What We Do

VISION: A vital, dynamic nonprofit and voluntary sector that is recognized and respected as an integral partner in building strong, healthy communities.

MISSION: The Calgary Chamber of Voluntary Organizations (CCVO) promotes and strengthens the nonprofit and voluntary sector by developing and sharing resources and knowledge, building connections, leading collaborative work, and giving voice to critical issues affecting the sector.

The high quality of life enjoyed in communities across Canada, including Calgary, is built on many of the programs, activities and services run by the nonprofits and charities that make up the voluntary sector. These include sports activities for our kids; environmental programs to conserve our natural treasures; services to help new immigrants settle in Calgary; training to give people the skills they need to fill gaps in the workforce; programs to help the homeless leave life on the street; and, arts and cultural activities for the whole community, to name a few.

CCVO was established in 2004 to strengthen these individual organizations and the sector generally, by building capacity and addressing the larger systemic issues that can ultimately help or hinder their missions. To this end, CCVO works to provide leadership on issues broadly affecting the nonprofit/voluntary sector.

• We work collaboratively, building connections with and within the sector.
• We contribute to a cohesive voice for the sector by inspiring dialogue, participating in public policy, and promoting the value of the nonprofit and voluntary sector with government, business and the public.
• And we build capacity within the sector by undertaking research, publishing information, sharing tools and resources, and developing skills and knowledge.

Today our work benefits from the support of a large and diverse CCVO membership ranging from small, grassroots nonprofits with no paid staff, to large, well known registered charities. Members work in areas across the community, including housing, social services, health, sports and recreation, arts, and environment.