Governance Q&A: Preparing for changes to bylaws

I lead a federally incorporated nonprofit. What I should be doing now to prepare for the Canadian Nonprofit Corporations Act (CNCA) coming into effect? Please note I’m not a lawyer and you’ve asked about a legal matter. Even though the...

What’s your nonprofit’s impact?

The consensus is in. “Measuring your impact can feel like a chore, but the long-term benefits vastly outweigh the short-term inconveniences,” says Sherry Ferronato, a community impact associate with the Calgary Foundation. She’s not alone in this thought process. Community...

Don’t call me, I’ll call you: Canada’s “do not call” legislation

Ring Ring. Ring Ring. “Hello?” [giant pause]... “Hello sir. My name is Andy. I’m calling on behalf of [insert name of business, polling company, charitable cause or foundation here]. Your contribution could save a life/a tree/a seal/the environment...” etc., etc....

Human Resources Q&A: Improving customer service

Our customer satisfaction surveys have been rating low for some time now. When we first noticed this, the organization introduced customer service training for all of our staff. Our staff express that they are more friendly and patient with clients...

Reporting fundraising expenses

Canadians think charities have a long way to go when it comes to reporting fundraising expenses. A 2008 study by the Muttart Foundation called Talking About Charities found only one in four Canadians think charities do an excellent or good...

Building a culture of innovation

The business world is abuzz with innovation. Why is it so important? In an increasingly crowded marketplace where new businesses pop up everyday, there is a need for companies to stay ahead of the competition and this is done through...

When volunteering is not a choice: a look at mandatory community service

Linda Graff’s voice grows firm as she insists that to use the term, court-mandated volunteering is to speak in contradictions. “Mandatory volunteering is an oxymoron. Volunteering is, by definition, voluntary,” she stresses. A long-time consultant in the in the nonprofit...

On the horizon: A sector council for nonprofits in Nova Scotia

Earlier this year, CharityVillage reported on progress that nonprofits in Nova Scotia are making with the provincial government on the creation of a new sector council. You can read the full article here. In June and July, the advisory committee...

Governance Q&A: When it’s time to blow the whistle

I’ve read about the importance of board member solidarity with board decisions, but aren’t there times a board member should blow the whistle? Absolutely there are times when a board member should blow the whistle on their organization. Most of...