July 15 2009 E-Bulletin

Welcome to the CCVO e-bulletin. This bi-weekly bulletin focuses on delivering nonprofit and voluntary sector news and resources.

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CCVO News

Appraising City Council - Let's Broaden the Discussion

A robust discussion encompassing many viewpoints on multiple issues - this is what is often missing in the critiques of Calgary municipal government. We commonly get the impression that taxes and expenditures are the overwhelming concern of our citizenry. A single-minded focus on taxes may cost taxpayers more than they think. Calgarians have identified many concerns and priorities as important - from safe and clean streets, to affordable and available housing, to arts and culture. Is it possible that citizens and taxpayers have concerns beyond tax cuts, low taxes and low expenditures?

Recent articles in the Calgary Herald regarding aldermanic "Report Cards" and expenditures have raised concerns with a number of organizations. Because CCVO has been approached by other groups about this coverage, we would like to share a modified version of an unpublished submission to the Herald's Opinion-Editorial page.

Government News

Arts Funding Announced by Minister

Minister James Moore of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages has announced the renewal of federal arts funding for the next five years. These renewed investments represent $504 million in support over five years and are in addition to measures announced in Canada's Economic Action Plan. They include a 41% increase in the budget for the Canada Arts Training Fund, and additional funding of $60 million over two years for the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund.

Participate in the Consultation Process for New CRA Guidelines

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) recently released proposed guidance on activities outside of Canada for Canadian registered charities, and would like your feedback on the guidelines' efficiency and clarity. The proposed guidance is intended to help registered charities (and applicants for charitable registration) carrying on activities outside Canada to comply with the sections of the Income Tax Act relating to charitable registration. The CRA also welcomes questions that would help them to develop a list of FAQs related to this document.

Research and Resources

New Report Explores the Financial and Regulatory Burdens Facing Canadian Nonprofits

Canada's non-profit maze is new research by Lynn Eakin and Associates, commissioned by the Wellesley Institute, that provides a troubling picture of the financial and regulatory burdens facing the voluntary sector.

HR Council Launches Revamped Website for Nonprofits

The HR Council for the Voluntary and Non-profit Sector (HR Council) has launched a renovated website. The site features easier navigation and a new resource centre of tools for nonprofits. New sections on the site include standards and frameworks, as well as presentations, podcasts, and a full list of the council's favourite links.

2008 BC State of Volunteering Report Released

The 2008 BC State of Volunteering Report gives both a broad view of the health of volunteerism in its many facets, as well as specific experiences and examples from which insights can be drawn from five distinct parts of the province. It also includes recommendations for action to address areas for improvement suggested by the findings.

Funding, Fundraising and Awards

Youth Encouraged to Apply for Program Funding in Calgary

Child & Youth Friendly Calgary (CYFC) is reminding young Calgarians that funding opportunities are still available through their program to assist youth in making a difference in Calgary. Youth can apply for grants up to a maximum of $2,500 for youth-led community-based initiatives that specifically focus on engaging or involving underserved or marginalized youth.

National Funding Available for Projects Benefiting Women and Girls

The Women's Community Fund of the Women's Program of Status of Women Canada recently announced its 2009 call for project proposals. Projects must meet the following criteria: improve women's and girls' economic security and prosperity; encourage women and girls in leadership and decision-making roles, and eliminate violence against women and girls. The deadline for submissions is September 30, 2009.

The 30th Governor General's Awards in Commemoration of the Persons Case Awards - call for nominations

Five awards in addition to one youth award are presented annually to candidates chosen from across Canada for their commitment to promoting the equality of girls and women in Canada. To be eligible for nomination, candidates must be Canadian citizens over 30 years of age, or between 15 and 30 years of age for the youth award. The deadline for nominations is July 31, 2009.

Professional Development

Participants Needed for National Nonprofit Board and Governance Survey

Canadian FundRaising & Philanthropy and Altruvest are conducting a survey of professional fundraisers and nonprofit board members. This national survey is designed to benchmark the state of governance practices in the voluntary sector and understand how various practices affect organizational reputation, brand, and overall performance. Participants who complete the short (5-7 minute) survey before 6:00 pm (Pacific Time), Thursday, July 16th, 2009 will receive a complimentary copy of this study via email.