From an ethics perspective, what rights does a member have? Membership concerns have been a very common topic recently in queries to me, web-based forums, and conversations with colleagues. If the issue were easy, there would be far fewer discussions....
This is the fourth in a series of articles focusing on key steps in building a solid not-for-profit organization. As referenced in the first three articles, we have relied on the excellent information offered in the Government of Canada’s Primer...
Some of my board members went to a governance workshop and came back saying a succession plan was urgent, in case I got hit by a bus. I have a good administrator who acts for me during vacation, but frankly,...
"The board provides strategic direction. In many ways, the board functions as a particular kind of eyes and ears for the organization. They bring their passion and involvement in other organizations and causes - whether as staff, volunteers, activists, members...
Now that you understand what the GST is and how it affects charities, it's important to take a look at how a charity can go about getting back the GST that they paid out during the year. This podcast discusses...
Can we have members without charging for membership? Our low membership fees are waived for over half of our members, and the total revenue from fees is not worth the cost and effort of collecting the money. Must people pay...
You are accountable. In the wake of a global economic meltdown attributed to financial greed and irresponsibility, regulators worldwide are focusing on accountability as the means to cleaning up the mess, and preventing it from recurring. Board members of all...
This is the second in a series of articles focusing on key steps in building a solid organization. Click here to view the first article, which suggests how to create the plans for the organization. This article focuses on what...
After last month's podcast you should be armed with a good understanding of just what the GST is. This month, we discuss the unique effect that the GST has on charities, the importance for the organization and its directors to...
Our membership has requested that our organization develop an ethics program. Where do we start? Congratulations to your membership for recognizing the value of a good ethics program. Your members and community can greatly benefit from ensuring that the chosen...

