Welcome to the CCVO e-bulletin. This bi-weekly bulletin focuses on delivering nonprofit and voluntary sector news and resources.
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Policy Update - CRA Guidance for Charities on Fundraising (CPS-028)
CCVO was part of the recent consultation process with Canada Revenue Agency regarding their proposed Guidance on Fundraising by Registered Charities. Much of the input provided by many sector participants was incorporated into the final Guidance, creating a much improved document. We are pleased with CRA's response to the sector, and the effort to reflect our concerns and feedback.
Directors, accountants or board members of each registered charity will need to review the Guidance as there are implications for fundraising practices and documentation. A secondary document provided by CRA is very useful, outlining best practices, frequently asked questions, and more.
CCVO is exploring the possibility of offering a workshop in the fall regarding the new Guidance. If you have any comments or feedback regarding the new Guidance (CPS-028), please contact Laura MacKinnon, Policy Analyst at 403-261-6655 ext 228.
CCVO News
Practice makes Perfect: Looking Outside the Box
September 9, 2009
Members: $15 Non-members: $22
This event will explore how you can better understand and integrate an untapped labour resource into your workplaces. Examine the myths and realities around employing persons with disabilities and learn how you could be accessing this often misunderstood pool of talent. Registration now open online.
Impact of the Current Economic Climate on Alberta's Non-profits - Third Survey
CCVO would appreciate your participation in our third Impact of the Economic Climate survey, scheduled for the end of August. We had a tremendous response to February's survey, and due to the level of participation the information has been widely used by the government, the media, and other organizations.
We are aware that the sector has been receiving a number of survey requests as of late; however we hope the results of our February research indicate the significance of this issue in the voluntary sector, and will inspire your vital participation in yet another survey! Please contact Laura MacKinnon, Policy Analyst at 403-261-6655 if you have questions or feedback.
MBA Students Available for Management Consulting and Organizational Change Projects
The Calgary HR Initiative and the MBA program of the Haskayne School of Business have developed a partnership that will allow organizations to draw upon the expertise of advanced of MBA students. These students have managerial, financial and accounting, marketing, and operational management skills and wish to gain substantive knowledge and experience in consulting and change management. Contact Mike Grogan for more details at 403-261-6655 ext 227.
Government News
CRA holds T3010B Webinars
Revenue Canda is offering a webcast introducing the new T3010B, the Registered Charity Information Return by CRA. The T3010B is a replacement for T3010A.
CRA issues New Charitible Registration (T2050) Forms
Revenue Canada has issued a revised T2050 form, for application to register a charity under the Income Tax Act. As of September 1, 2009, all applicants will need to use the new form.
Terry de March steps down from Charities Directorate
As reported by the Carters Professional Corporation, Terry de March, Director General of the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)'s Charities Directorate has stepped down from his position as of October 5, 2009. Cathy Hawara will immediately fill his position as interim director general of the Charities Directorate.
Professional Development
Imagine Canada Standards Program Web Conferences
On August 19, 2009 (English) 1:00-2:00pm EDT
September 22, 3009 (French) 1:00-2:00pm EDT
Cost: Free
Imagine Canada will be holding web conferences on their Standards Program. The Standards are voluntary guidelines of best practices in the areas of governance, human resources, and accountability, which are intended to encourage Canada's charities and nonprofits to enhance their operations and increase their effectiveness.
Resources
Volunteer Lawyers Service Now Operated by Pro Bono Law Alberta
As of August 4, 2009, the Volunteer Lawyers Service program (VLS) is now operated by Pro Bono Law Alberta (PBLA). VLS is a pro bono program that provides eligible charitable organizations with legal services and advice through an application process that matches the organization with a volunteer lawyer. For information, call the PBLA office at 403-541-4840
Risk Management Website Launch
Risk Management Strategies and Tactics is an online, easy to navigate resource for Executive Directors, board members, and volunteer managers. Developed by Volunteer Alberta and the government of Alberta, it provides simple, easy to input strategies for nonprofit organizations across all subsectors.
Insurance Resources
Insurance is a cyclical business. A hard market means that insurance access may be more expensive and difficult to get. Prepare your organization for this eventuality. Executive Directors, volunteer managers, and board members researching about insurance, risk management strategies, volunteer screening, volunteer laws, and liability can now access five online resources from Volunteer Alberta and the Alberta Voluntary Sector Insurance Council.