“Let’s pretend this is a game.” Adults have used these oft-repeated words to convince children (and, sometimes adults too) that something they hadn’t wanted to do could be made enjoyable. Like magic, the promise of a game can persuade the...
Ever wondered what impact online petitioning actually has on government? Thought about what effect becoming a digital signatory to “x” or “y” petition has on the world? Good questions. There’s more than one answer. Some say it may actually have...
Should a charity divert monies from its programs to attempt to influence public policy? A charitable mission is about making some aspect of the world or community better. If a current or proposed public policy works against that mission, the...
Citizen protests come in a variety of forms. Some take to the street or show up at Parliament Hill, placards in hand. Others strike, petition, blockade and sit-in (or bed-in, a la Lennon; but I digress).Then there are blackouts –...
Stunt philanthropy. Haven’t heard of the term? Keep reading. Just think... One of Canada’s most charismatic members of parliament forgoes the warmth of his bed to sleep outside to raise money and awareness for support programs for homeless youth. A...
For many nonprofits, the mere thought of approaching a government body for any kind of "ask" can be daunting. Yet lobbying, defined here as communicating with public office holders in an attempt to influence government decisions, can be an essential...
This week's Podium article originally appeared at Jayne's blog and is reprinted with permission. Back in January of this year, those of you on Facebook probably saw lots of female friends, family and colleagues posting a colour in their status...
I sit on a charity board where some of the staff are very worried about some potential legislation harmful to our cause, and want to lobby against it. Is this ethical for a charity? Is it legal? It is quite...
If you’re a nonprofit or charitable organization with a mandate that frequently requires you to dialogue with government officials, you’re likely already aware of the Federal Accountability Act (FAA). If you’re not aware, you should read this. Last December, in...
So, your board has a concern with a government program and has some suggestions for changes. The board instructs you, as the executive director, to let the appropriate ministry know and to try to get a change in the program....
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