Resource Library
May 20 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
An Introduction to HR Management Standards
June 10, 2009
Identify your HR management practices and discover new strategies to move your organization forward. Join CCVO for this introductory session on applying the HR Council's HR Management Standards to inspire and support your team. Online registration now open.
CCVO to Present at Vitalize 2009
CCVO's Policy Analyst, Kim Mustard, will be presenting the sessions Influencing Public Policy: Government Relations and Advocacy 101 and Privacy Checkup: How Charities and Nonprofits Can Protect Personal Information at the Vitalize conference on June 5, 2008.
2009/10 Membership Year has Begun - Renew Your CCVO Membership Today
Members of CCVO must renew now to ensure their membership benefits (including discounted job postings and event attendance) are maintained. Membership can be renewed by mail, fax or phone - contact us at 403-261-6655 for more details!
Not a member? Join CCVO and take advantage of our one-time 'Welcome Rate' which gives members 50% off your first-year's membership!
Government News
CRA Revises Policy Commentary on Expenses Incurred by Volunteers
In late April, the Canada Revenue Agency issued a revised policy commentary to clarify their position on out of pocket expenses incurred by volunteers and whether an official donation receipt can be issued in place of a cheque to reimburse volunteers for expenses incurred on behalf of the charity. While a charity cannot simply issue a donation receipt to a volunteer for their expenses, the commentary outlines steps that can be taken.
Professional Development
Charities for Beginners Workshop
June 8, 2009, 6 - 8 p.m.
Calgary
Interested in becoming a charity, but don't how to proceed? This free seminar hosted by Volunteer Lawyers Service helps not-for-profits considering applying for charitable status figure out the first steps. Contact Amy Cooper for more information or to register.
Vitalize 2009
June 4-6, 2009
Calgary
Alberta's conference for the voluntary sector is back! Registration information and the program guide are now available on the Vitalize website.
enterprising non-profits Launches Social Enterprise Podcast Series
enp's social enterprises podcast series will release a new podcast featuring expert interviews on vital business topics such as planning mechanisms, financing, human resources, and evaluation every 4-6 weeks. This month's podcast, "What is Social Enterprise?" features David LePage, enp's Program Manager and member of the Social Enterprise Council of Canada.
Funding, Fundraising & Awards
New Federal Funding for Recreational Infrastructure
The Government of Canada has launched a two-year Recreational Infrastructure Canada Program (RInC) as part of Canada's Economic Action Plan to fund upgrades, renovations, and fix-ups for existing community recreational infrastructure. The application deadline is May 29,2009.
Microsoft and TechSoup Announce Show Your Impact Contest
Microsoft will be awarding three $5000 cash grants plus $25,000 worth of donated Microsoft product to organizations that best demonstrate how they have creatively and effectively used Microsoft technologies to better respond to needs in their communities and increase their impact. Submissions are due by May 29, 2009.
Small Youth Service Grants Available
The Disney Minnie Grants (awarded by Youth Service America) are currently accepting proposals from all over the world for projects that engage youth (especially 5-14) in community service. Projects must take place between Sept-Nov, must engage at least 20 youth and should be youth-led. The deadline to apply is June 12. Grants are for $500.
Nominations Now Open to Celebrate Alberta's Recreation Volunteers
The Recreation Volunteer Recognition Awards are presented each year to four volunteers who have made recreation in their community more accessible, enjoyable and relevant to Albertans. The deadline to submit nominations is June 26.
Thérèse Casgrain Volunteer Award
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) is calling for nominations for the 2009 Thérèse Casgrain Volunteer Award (TCVA). The TCVA is awarded yearly to one youth (18-30) and one adult (31+) whose long-term social commitment and persistent efforts have contributed significantly to the well-being of their fellow Canadians.
Research
Report Addresses Potential for Volunteer Tax Credits
The Potential Impact of Canadian Federal and/or Provincial Tax Credit Incentives for Volunteer Participation, by Volunteer Alberta, examines the efficacy of the idea of volunteer tax credits to improve volunteer rates. It argues that implementing such a system could result in the loss of billions in tax revenue, not to mention the monumental cost of administration. The report also addresses several key concerns including compliance issues, the impact on volunteer motivation, and the economic value of volunteer hours.
Dealing with Downsizing: The Right Way to Manage Your People During a Recession
This article by the HR Council for the Voluntary and Nonprofit Sector examines how to best work with your staff during difficult financial times, especially if layoffs are under consideration.
Finding Leaders for America's Nonprofits
Despite the economic downturn, nonprofits are still hiring and are looking for the best. This Bridgespan report looks at current nonprofit hiring trends, the staffing needs and plans of charities, and what charities look for in an ideal candidate.
New Report Explores Nonprofit Use of Social Networking Strategies
The Nonprofit Social Network Survey Report reveals that, although large numbers of US nonprofits are using social networking sites, particularly Facebook, their communities on the sites remain relatively small. The report explores the tactics being used by nonprofits on social networking sites, how they are allocating staff hours to develop their programs, and how much revenue they are generating.
Helping Themselves
With fewer donations and declining investments, nonprofits are thinking creatively about cutting costs and raising revenue, according to the Wall Street Journal.