CharityVillage Connects

Charity Village Connects Episode 44 - Fewer Volunteers, Higher Stakes: Can Canada Rebuild a Culture of Giving?

 In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, we take a close look at a crisis in Canadian volunteerism, where a sharp decline in both participation rates and total hours has left the already depleted nonprofit sector struggling.

At a time when Canada needs strong communities more than ever, the people and organizations that hold many of those communities together are under growing strain. With a trade war with the United States threatening our economy, challenges to...

In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, we examine what Canada’s 2026 Spring Economic Update means for the nonprofit and charitable sector. Where do the federal government’s priorities lie? Where does the care economy fit within Canada’s future? Sector experts explore the opportunities and challenges ahead, including potential impacts on funding, regulation, service delivery, and community wellbeing. Tune in to The Spring Economic Update: Where Does the Nonprofit Sector Fit in Canada’s Future?

Meet Our Guests in Order of Appearance 

On the next episode of Charity Village connects.

Where do the federal government’s priorities lie? Where does the care economy fit within Canada’s future? Sector experts explore the opportunities and challenges ahead, including potential impacts on funding, regulation, service delivery, and community wellbeing. Tune in to The Spring Economic Update: Where Does the Nonprofit Sector Fit in Canada’s Future? 

#podcast #charity

In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, we explore the changing landscape of Canadian philanthropy and the new fundraising trends that are shaping the future of the sector. Drawing on insights from the 2026 Giving Report, we look at how donor behaviour, technology, AI, legacy giving, and collaboration are reshaping the way nonprofits fund their work. What does it take to build stronger donor relationships, reimagine giving, and create resilience in such a volatile environment? Join us as we dig into the data, unpack the opportunities, and explore what charities and nonprofits can do now to prepare for the years ahead.<...

Drawing on insights from the 2026 Giving Report, we look at how donor behaviour, technology, AI, legacy giving, and collaboration are reshaping the way nonprofits fund their work. What does it take to build stronger donor relationships, reimagine giving, and create resilience in such a volatile environment?

#podcast #charity

In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, we explore what responsible AI adoption looks like for nonprofits. AI is reshaping nonprofit work, from fundraising to communications and everything in between. This shift raises urgent questions surrounding privacy, trust, equity, wellbeing, accountability, and mission alignment. Join us as sector experts provide practical advice on setting guardrails, building internal capacity, using AI thoughtfully, and keeping human judgment at the center of mission-driven work.

Meet Our Guests in Order of Appearance 

What does responsible AI adoption look like for nonprofits? AI is reshaping nonprofit work, from fundraising to communications and
everything in between. Sector experts will provide practical advice on setting guardrails, building internal capacity, using AI thoughtfully, and keeping human judgment at the center of mission-driven work.

#podcast #AI

Did you know Canada's lobbying guidelines changed earlier this year? In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, we break down what’s new, what it means for organizations engaging with government officials, and how to stay compliant while advocating effectively. Hear insights from the Lobbying Commissioner, legal and advocacy experts, and sector leaders.

Meet Our Guests in Order of Appearance

In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, we break down what’s new, what it means for organizations engaging with government officials, and how to stay compliant while advocating effectively. Hear insights from the Lobbying Commissioner, legal and advocacy experts, and sector leaders.

In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, we take an in-depth look at donor-advised funds (DAFs), a method for Canadians to give to charity that is increasing rapidly in popularity.  Do DAFs provide valuable flexibility for donors, or do they delay urgently needed support for charities facing rising demand? Join us as we explore how DAFs work, the benefits they offer, and the growing calls to ensure every donated dollar makes a timely difference.

#podcast #charity

In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, we take an in-depth look at donor-advised funds (DAFs), a method for Canadians to give to charity that is increasing rapidly in popularity. With more than $20 billion sitting in DAF accounts across the country — funds that donors have claimed tax credits for, but that have not yet been distributed to the charities they were meant to support — important questions are emerging about their role in Canada’s charitable landscape. Do DAFs provide valuable flexibility for donors, or do they delay urgently needed support for charities facing rising demand? Join us as we explore how DA...

On November 4th, the federal government released its latest budget. In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, we explore what the new fiscal plan means for nonprofits and charities across Canada. Our guests break down the key measures affecting funding, employment, and social programs, and share insights on how organizations can prepare for the changes ahead. This conversation offers timely analysis and practical takeaways to help you navigate the budget’s impact with confidence.  

Meet Our Guests in Order of Appearance 

The stake could not be any higher. In this episode of CharityVillage Connects we do a deep dive into the first Federal Budget of the Carney government and explore its impacts on the Canadian nonprofit sector as Canada continues to navigate economic and security challenges brought on by ongoing threats of an all-out trade war, threats to Canada’s national security, and even threats to our sovereignty – all of which are truly unprecedented in our lifetimes and are emerging from a previously unthinkable source – our closest trading partner and ally.   What does the budget signal for Canadian nonprofits in 2026 and bey...

In this episode of Charity Village Connects, we examine the far-reaching consequences of the Trump administration’s sudden dismantling of USAID, which has created a $63-billion void in global aid funding. With essential programs in health, education, food security, and disaster relief now at risk, what does this seismic shift mean for organizations already stretched thin? Canadian nonprofits are grappling with increased demand as they work to fill the gap left behind by disrupted partnerships. Tune in to hear sector experts reveal the challenges ahead and Canada’s potential path forward.

Meet Our Guests in O...

What are the far-reaching consequences of the Trump administration’s sudden dismantling of USAID? What does this seismic shift mean for organizations already stretched thin? Tune to the next episode to hear sector experts reveal the challenges ahead and Canada’s potential path forward.

#podcast #charity

Announced at this year’s CharityVillage Conference and Awards on November 19, the 2025 award winners include both exceptional organizations and inspiring individuals. They are leading the way with the best volunteer programs, innovative workplace mental health initiatives, meaningful diversity, equity and inclusion efforts, collaborative projects uniting communities, and more. In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, discover what sets their work apart — listen in and take inspiration directly from the winners themselves!

Meet Our Guests(inorder of appearance)

The CharityVillage Virtual Conference and Awards brings together professionals within the Canadian nonprofit and charitable sectors and provides an opportunity for organizations to be recognized for their mission, purpose, community and recruitment initiatives.

The 2025 Conference Panels featured subject matter experts and sector leaders providing critical insights related to the challenges and opportunities that nonprofits and charities face today and into the future. Plus, conference attendees had the opportunity to participate in networking sessions, visit exhibitor booths, and have a front-row view of the Awards ceremony!

In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, discover what sets their...

Episode 35 – Safeguarding Equity: How Trump’s DEI Rollbacks Are Impacting Canadian Nonprofits

In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, we look at how DEI rollbacks in the U.S. are affecting Canada’s nonprofit sector. We also explore where Canadian organizations stand in their DEI work today: what’s moving forward, what’s stalling, and what’s at risk. With candid insights and practical strategies, this episode is an essential check-in for anyone committed to advancing equity.

Meet Our Guests in Order of Appearance

• Dr. Wendy Cukier, Founder and Academic Director, Diversity Institute

• Jade Pi...

How are DEI rollbacks in the U.S. affecting Canada’s nonprofit sector? We also explore where Canadian organizations stand in their DEI work today: what’s moving forward, what’s stalling, and what’s at risk. With candid insights and practical strategies, this episode is an essential check in for anyone committed to advancing equity.

#podcast #charity #DEI

AI for Impact: How Nonprofits Are Turning Tech into Social Good

In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, we explore how nonprofits across Canada are beginning to harness the power of artificial intelligence to advance their missions. Through real-world case studies and conversations with sector leaders, we spotlight tangible examples of how AI is being used today, from streamlining operations and enhancing donor engagement to improving service delivery. Tune in today for practical insights and inspiration to help you navigate this fast-evolving landscape.  

Meet Our Guests in Order of Appearance 

Explore how nonprofits across Canada are beginning to harness the power of artificial intelligence to advance their missions. Through real-world case studies and conversations with sector leaders, we spotlight tangible examples of how AI is being used today, from streamlining operations and enhancing donor engagement to improving service delivery. Tune in today for practical insights and inspiration to help you navigate this fast-evolving landscape.  

#podcast #giving

In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, we take a hard look at the well-being of Canada’s nonprofit workforce, with a spotlight on the frontline staff who form the backbone of essential community services. We uncover troubling data from recent research reports about food insecurity, burnout, and the systemic challenges facing nonprofit workers. Joining us for this discussion are sector leaders and researchers who provide context for these findings and share practical solutions. 

Meet Our Guests in Order of Appearance 

·       Anouk Bertner, Executive Director, Future of Good

·       Steven Ayer, President...

In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, we take a hard look at the well-being of Canada’s nonprofit workforce, with a spotlight on the frontline staff who form the backbone of essential community services. We uncover troubling data from recent research reports about food
insecurity, burnout, and the systemic challenges facing nonprofit workers. Joining us for this discussion are sector leaders and researchers who provide context for these findings and share practical solutions.

Subscribe so you don't miss the full episode coming August 26, 2025.

Episode 32 

In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, we take a close look at the insights revealed in the 2025 CanadaHelps Giving Report about the landscape of charitable giving in Canada, and what these insights mean for your nonprofit or charity. Joined by sector leaders, we examine donor trends, shifting patterns of giving, and the broader implications for fundraising in today’s uncertain economic climate. 

Meet Our Guests in Order of Appearance 

In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, we take a close look at the insights revealed in the 2025 CanadaHelps Giving Report about the landscape of charitable giving in Canada, and what these insights mean for your nonprofit or charity. Joined by sector leaders, we examine donor trends, shifting patterns of giving, and the broader implications for fundraising in today’s uncertain economic climate. 

Episode 31 – Post-Election Wake-Up Call: What Canada’s New Federal Government Means for Nonprofits

It’s been about three months now, since Canada elected its new government. What will this new federal government mean for Canada's nonprofit sector? What policy shifts can we anticipate? How will funding be affected? And what should nonprofit leaders be watching for, in the months ahead? In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, we speak with several nonprofit leaders and government relations experts to help us unpack what we might expect from our newly elected government and better understand what the nonpro...

It’s been about three months now, since Canada elected its new government. What will this new federal government mean for Canada's nonprofit sector? What policy shifts can we anticipate? How will funding be affected? And what should nonprofit leaders be watching for, in the months ahead? In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, we speak with several nonprofit leaders and government relations experts to help us unpack what we might expect from our newly elected government and better understand what the nonprofit sector can do to work with this government to serve the needs of Canadians.

#po...

Episode 30 – Should Money Talk? Inequities in Funding and Influence in the Nonprofit Sector 

They say money talks. Is this true for the nonprofit sector, where a relatively small number of large charities receive the lion’s share of available funding? Have well-funded charities dominated the public policy governing our sector, drowning out the voices of the vast majority of small charities and nonprofits across the country?  In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, we take a closer look at the impact this inequitable power dynamic has on the sector, the problems it causes, and what can be done...

Episode 30 – Should Money Talk? Inequities in Funding and Influence in the Nonprofit Sector 

They say money talks. Is this true for the nonprofit sector, where a relatively small number of large charities receive the lion’s share of available funding? Have well-funded charities dominated the public policy governing our sector, drowning out the voices of the vast majority of small charities and nonprofits across the country?  In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, we take a closer look at the impact this inequitable power dynamic has on the sector, the problems it causes, and what can be done about...

Episode 29 – Growing Pains: How Canada’s Population Boom Affects Nonprofits

In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, we take a careful look at how recent, unprecedented population growth in Canada is impacting charities and nonprofits. With organizations already struggling to cope with a rising demand in services, does a surge in population add further strain to an already overstretched sector? Are there opportunities that exist to help organizations grow their staff, volunteers, and donors? Join us as we explore this topic with sector experts, who offer nuanced answers to the question: What does a significant popu...

Episode 29 – Growing Pains: How Canada’s Population Boom Affects Nonprofits

In this episode of CharityVillage Connects, we take a careful look at how recent, unprecedented population growth in Canada is impacting charities and nonprofits. With organizations already struggling to cope with a rising demand in services, does a surge in population add further strain to an already overstretched sector? Are there opportunities that exist to help organizations grow their staff, volunteers, and donors? Join us as we explore this topic with sector experts, who offer nuanced answers to the question: What does a significant popu...

Episode 28 – Navigating Political and Economic Upheaval: Advice from Nonprofits on the Frontline

In the last episode of CharityVillage Connects, we talked to government relations and fundraising experts about how nonprofits and charities can navigate the political change and economic impacts currently coming at us at such a dizzying pace. With the continued threat of tariffs from the US President Trump administration, and with both federal and provincial elections looming here at home, we thought it worthwhile to dig even deeper into the topic of governmental change and find out how nonprofit organizations across the co...

Navigating the Stormy Waters of Political Uncertainty: Government Relations for Nonprofits

With elections happening across the provinces and the potential for a federal election at any time, how to navigate political change is top of mind for many nonprofit leaders. How can your organization engage in government relations, lobby for social change, and access government funding, especially during such an unprecedented time of uncertainty? Get insights and advice from sector experts in this episode of CharityVillage Connects.

#podcast #politics

 Navigating the Stormy Waters of Political Uncertainty: Government Relations for Nonprofits

With elections happening across the provinces and the potential for a federal election at any time, how to navigate political change is top of mind for many nonprofit leaders. How can your organization engage in government relations, lobby for social change, and access government funding, especially during such an unprecedented time of uncertainty? Get insights and advice from sector experts in this episode of CharityVillage Connects.

Meet Our Guests in Order of Appearance 

Government Relations and Change Elections

#podcasts Chartity

Episode 26 – Celebrating the 2024 CharityVillage Award Winners 

Join us in celebrating the 2024 winners of the CharityVillage Awards! These winners were announced on November 20, 2024, at our annual conference, and now is your chance to hear more about their exceptional achievements. With winners in categories such as volunteer management, workplace mental health, diversity, equity, and inclusion, and overall staff and volunteer impact, it’s a great chance to hear more about why their programs, services, and organizations as a whole stood out to our panel of expert judges. Hear from our award winners, in this episo...

Celebrating the 2024 CharityVillage Award Winners 

Join us in celebrating the 2024 winners of the CharityVillage Awards! These winners were announced on November 20, 2024, at our annual conference, and now is your chance to hear more about their exceptional achievements. With winners in categories such as volunteer management, workplace mental health, diversity, equity, and inclusion, and overall staff and volunteer impact, it’s a great chance to hear more about why their programs, services, and organizations as a whole stood out to our panel of expert judges. Hear from our award winners, in this episode of...

Episode 25 – Accessible Workplaces: Is the Canadian Nonprofit Sector Falling Behind?

According to the 2022 Canadian Survey on Disability, the employment rate for persons with disabilities
currently sits at 62%. While this figure has risen in recent years, it’s clear that more work can be done to
create more inclusive and accessible workplaces that welcome Canadians with disabilities. In this
episode of CharityVillage Connects, we talk to accessibility experts from across the sector to find out
about the challenges and barriers that contribute to this employment gap, along with what nonprofit
organizations like yours can...

Accessible Workplaces: Is the Canadian Nonprofit Sector Falling Behind?

According to the 2022 Canadian Survey on Disability, the employment rate for persons with disabilities
currently sits at 62%. While this figure has risen in recent years, it’s clear that more work can be done to
create more inclusive and accessible workplaces that welcome Canadians with disabilities. In this
episode of CharityVillage Connects, we talk to accessibility experts from across the sector to find out
about the challenges and barriers that contribute to this employment gap, along with what nonprofit
organizations like yours can do...

Episode 24 – Reconciliation and the Nonprofit Sector: Where Are We Now? 

To mark Canada’s 4th annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, in this episode, we’re checking in with Indigenous nonprofit leaders from across the country to hear what they have to say about whether any progress has been made in how the #nonprofit sector supports, funds and collaborates with Indigenous-led organizations. We’ll spotlight some powerful examples of how settler-led and Indigenous-led organizations are creating better working relationships, and hear from Indigenous leaders on what more the sector needs to do to advance reconcilia...