An anemic economy closed out 2008, and if pundits and experts across the globe are correct, the condition may well worsen in 2009. Though stories of economic hardship are, unfortunately, hardly rare for the charitable sector, the end of the decade may prove to be one of the toughest in at least one area: recruitment of volunteers.
In the best of times, many nonprofits struggle with donor acquisition, retention, and, worst of all, lapsed donors. Now, with the North American financial markets imploding from the sub-prime mortgage fallout in the US, experts predict that voluntary sector organizations will need to refocus on the communication that truly reaches their donor populace: sincere acknowledgment based on donor-centred principles.
A major push was begun last week with an initiative by Volunteer Canada that takes aim at the baby boomer generation – or, as they are increasingly calling themselves, the “Zoomers” – asking them to seriously consider the benefits of volunteering and not just retiring away once their previous careers are over.
In the ultra-competitive world of charitable enterprise, the communications quest for donor dollars often takes a path that circumvents focus on the pocketbook and instead appeals to the area just behind the breast pocket: the heart.
Much has been made in the press over the last year about the alleged fraudulent use of tax shelter plans by Canadian charities.
Ever wondered what it would be like to go from being an armchair executive to the role of executive director or CEO of a major (or minor) organization for a limited time?
What happens when an organization wants to re-brand? Imagine if you were asked how you would change United Way’s iconic mission or logo (not that it needs it) to make it more relevant or memorable? It’s not easy.
While thousands of Canadians hack away in frustration at those little white golf balls – all in the name of a good cause – the question remains: is the ubiquitous charity golf tourney worth the effort nonprofits put into them?
Late last year, Imagine Canada released the report Leadership Perspectives: Interviews with leaders of Canada’s charities and nonprofit organizations.
A whole ancillary segment of professional, voluntary sector consultants has sprung up to help make the daily planning and operational structures of nonprofits easier and more effective (in many cases). In fact, in recent years various movements were launched to help consultants and nonprofits find each other and broaden the knowledge base of the sector.
