Resource Library
April 9 2009 E-Bulletin
Welcome to the CCVO e-bulletin. This bi-weekly bulletin focuses on delivering nonprofit and voluntary sector news and resources.
Please feel free to send us your feedback. We would appreciate any comments you may have.
CCVO News
Taking a Proactive Approach During the Economic Downturn - CCVO launches Economic Downturn Resource Centre
These days, you can't open the paper, turn on the radio or TV, or browse the Internet without hearing about the impact of the economic downturn on our community- including nonprofits and charities. Recent CCVO survey results indicated that while many organizations saw stable revenue levels in 2008, certain categories including earned income, and corporate donations were trending downwards, while at the same time, demand for programs and services was going up. Heading into 2009, most organizations anticipated a drop in revenues, particularly from foundations, corporate community investment programs and individual donors.
While we can't predict when the economy will turn around or how long it will take to recover, our website has more information on the state of the sector, some proactive steps your organization can take, and a variety of resources to help you move ahead.
CCVO Responds to Alberta Budget
While at the same time recognizing the Government's decision to maintain or increase funding for key areas such as arts and culture, seniors, persons with disabilities, and sports and recreation, among others, CCVO has expressed concerns about a number of changes that reduce critial support for Alberta's nonprofits and charities. Please see related documents including the CCVO News Release, CCVO's Budget Response Statement and CCVO's 2008 and 2009 Budget Comparision Table.
Share your HR Expertise with the Voluntary Sector through the Calgary HR Initiative
CCVO is convening a collaboration of local nonprofit organizations, funders and Human Resource coalitions to bring attention and long term sustainable action to human resource issues in human services organizations. The HR Task Group draws upon the experience of voluntary sector leaders, consultants and HR specialists to identify, develop and share human resource principles and practices to increase the capacity of sector organizations. To join, please contact Mike Grogan, Director, Workforce Development, at 261-6655 x227. Members of the Task Group should have knowledge of HR issues in the voluntary sector and be able to attend regular meetings.
Government News
Accounting boards seek Feedback on Nonprofit Financial Reporting
The Accounting Standards Board and the Public Sector Accounting Board are inviting feedback on the future of financial reporting for not-for-profit organizations. Organizations are invited to send written comments to either board on the issues financial reporting raises and suggest courses of action by June 30, 2009. All comments received will be available online in a public file within one week of receipt. The deadline for receiving feedback is June 30, 2009.
Workshop on CRA Overseas Operations Ammendments
April 28, 2009
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is currently revising its directives for Canadian registered charities with overseas operations. In order to better understand the updated requirements of CRA and the obligations of the Income Tax Act, the Canadian Council for International Co-operation will be holding a free workshop in Edmonton on April 28th. Travel bursaries are available for Calgary-based and other out-of-town organizations. Please send questions and registration forms to Nadine Miville or fax (613)241-5302
Professional Development
New Courses for Nonprofit Managers
Mount Royal College's new Spring semester calendar is now online, and has two courses that may be of interest to nonprofit managers.
Resources
HR Council Releases Framework on Shared HR Services
The HR Council has published a new document exploring the development of a shared service framework that would help leaders to effectively manage HR and workplace issues. Better Together outlines the potential value and benefit derived when a group of executive directors pools their resources and collectively hires an HR professional.
Imagine Canada updates Resources
Imagine Canada has added several new resources to its website, including a daily Nonprofits and the Economy Newsfeed which provides summaries of Canadian media coverage on the current economic realities affecting the charitable and nonprofit sector. Many new risk management and insurance resources been added to the Nonprofit & Charities Insurance webpage.
The March 2009 edition of Ottawa Reports features news and updates on Federal Government events and developments which are of importance to the nonprofit and charitable sector.
Calgary Economic Outlook Re-released
Calgary Economic Development has released a revised version of its 2009 Calgary Economic Outlook report. The new report reflects the economic challenges Calgary is experiencing due to the economic downturn.
Funding, Fundraising and Awards
Enabling Accessibility Fund announces call for Small Projects
Proposals for Small Projects Enabling Accessibility are being accepted by The Enabling Accessibility Fund, which supports community-based projects across Canada that improve accessibility, reduce barriers and enable all Canadians to participate in and contribute to their community and the economy. Approved projects will have strong ties to and support from their communities. The Deadline for proposals is May 4, 2009 at midnight.
Alberta Community Crime Prevention Grant Program
The Alberta Community Crime Prevention Grant Program supports community crime prevention projects that target at-risk individuals and their families; Aboriginal people and communities; enhancing the reporting of crime and the development of interventions linked to a local Safe Community Strategy. Incorporated non-profit and volunteer organizations are encouraged to apply for funding. The maximum grant amount is $50,000. Apply by May 15, 2009. For more information, call 780-427-6919.
Donner Awards now accepting applications
The Donner Awards Program is accepting applications for the 2009 Donner Canadian Foundation Awards for Excellence in the Delivery of Social Services. A total of $70,000 is available to be won, with a total of eleven awards granted. Applications must be received by Thursday, May 28, 2009