Canadians agree: non-profit sector requires stronger government support to address big challenges

The challenges we face as a society have profoundly shifted as we reach autumn and governments resume in their respective legislatures. Canadians are grappling with pandemic impacts, inflation, housing, and constant environmental challenges and disasters. Yet, in these times of unparalleled division, there is a remarkable amount of agreement amongst Canadians about these key issues and the need for a strong and resilient non-profit sector to address them. A national survey conducted last month by Ignite-Lab on behalf of Imagine Canada, with support from BMO, shows that more than eight in 10 Canadians understand these current macro forces have created more demand for the services of charities and non-profits. Each issue requires ingenuity, resources, and the vital work of the non-profit sector to support communities through these complicated times. From programs to feed and house individuals in need, to supporting climate emergencies in an instant, non-profit organizations form the sector on the frontlines. Consistent across regions, demographics, and political affiliations, nine in 10 Canadians consider this work to be important to Canada and our way of life. More than nine in 10 agree on the importance of the federal government’s support of the charitable and non-profit sector, with two in three saying it’s very important for ensuring Canadians have access to the services they need. Inflation and cost of living concerns rank highest (96 per cent), followed by health care (93 per cent), food insecurity (92 per cent), sheltering the unhoused (89 per cent), and climate change (83 per cent). The stark reality is that while Canadians see these issues as urgent, and generally see the non-profit sector doing the best it can, most believe the federal government is not doing enough to help organizations address them (58 per cent). The federal government relies on the sector to help us achieve our way of life, and to handle new and ongoing challenges. Yet, it does not sufficiently trust and equip it to deliver on these crucial and expanding mandates. Bruce MacDonald is the president and CEO of Imagine Canada. Photograph courtesy of Imagine Canada While three in four Canadians are aware of the needs millions face daily, and the support of charities and non-profits in meeting those needs, far fewer understand the scope of the sector. With more than 170,000 non-profits in Canada, including 86,000 registered charities, the sector employs 2.4 million people—more than 10 per cent of the Canadian workforce. Together, they contribute $192-billion to the economy, or 8.3 per cent of Canada’s GDP. It’s clear: the sector contributes greatly to the quality of life we all strive for. And, when it comes to the confidence the population has in different sectors to address the macro issues facing our society, Canadians overwhelmingly trust charities and non-profits. Eighty-six per cent say they trust charities and non-profits to deal with these issues, compared to 62 per cent for the government, and 59 per cent for the corporate sector. To better address these issues, the sector continues to advocate for the creation of a home for charities and non-profits within the federal government, increasing our collective efforts, impact, and trust through direct collaboration. Canadians across all party lines agree that they would like to see the federal government better support charities and non-profits in several key areas so they can more effectively help communities. Eighty-five per cent support improved working conditions for paid and volunteer workers; 82 per cent are in favour of collecting and providing better data on the sector; 78 per cent support the creation of a federal entity responsible for the sector’s well-being, a home in government; and 77 per cent believe the government should provide the sector with additional funding. In addition, 76 per cent support continued tax incentives to encourage their own donations. Our directive is clear: Canadians desire stronger government support for the charities and non-profits and trust the sector to effectively address the macro challenges we face. To build a fairer and more just society, the federal government must work together with the non-profit sector as a true partner. Bruce MacDonald is the president and CEO of Imagine Canada. The Hill Times

Canadians agree: non-profit sector requires stronger government support to address big challenges

According to a recent Imagine Canada survey, most Canadians believe the federal government is not doing enough to help organizations address issues like health care, food insecurity, and climate change.

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Canadians agree: non-profit sector requires stronger government support to address big challenges

According to a recent Imagine Canada survey, most Canadians believe the federal government is not doing enough to help organizations address issues like health care, food insecurity, and climate change.

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