Information, research, and resources strengthen the nonprofit sector.
We have gathered some key resources that shed light on the different ways the nonprofit sector, volunteerism, and civic engagement support our society. We continue to monitor social trends, explore statistical information, and gather inspiring resources that support you in your day-to-day work.
If you would like to inquire about a live workshop or presentation on a resource or an additional topic, please visit our Workshops & Webinars page.
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Top Resources
Report
Crisis or continuity?: Insights and Opportunities to Reinvigorate Volunteering
This report, a collaborative effort between InWithForward and Volunteer Alberta, comes from our (Re)Engaged: Volunteerism From the Ground Up research initiative. We dug into the current, evolving nature of contribution using qualitative research methods, especially ethnographic interviews with individuals across Edmonton, Lethbridge, and Fairview. This report offers some paradigmatic shifts in how we frame and understand the value of volunteering, and identifies five actionable insights.
Tipsheet
Rethinking Background Checks: An Intersectional Approach to Equity
An interactive tipsheet that provides a look at background checks through an intersectional approach, completed by our student Jose Guevarra [Disclaimer: Resource uses AI Software, but was reviewed by VA Staff]
Grant Stewardship Checklist
So you’ve won (or lost) your grant. Now what? While most information available deals with how to craft a winning application, Imagine Canada’s Grant Connect and Keela have teamed up to fill in the blanks for what happens after. This robust checklist runs through the nitty-gritty details of what to do once your grant application is accepted (or not!), including the critical job of stewardship. Use it to ensure you’re cultivating the best possible relationships with funders and to make your next application even better – regardless of the outcome.
This is a members-only resource. Log in or become a member to access this content.
Video
Volunteer Recruitment and Retention: Insights & Stories Panel
Curious about how other volunteer specialists have approached the challenges of volunteer recruitment and retention? Join us for a panel discussion with volunteer specialists Alison Besecker (Senior Coordinator, Networks & Engagement), Erin Navarro (VA Senior Coordinator, Learning & Resources), and Elaine Mew (CVA), moderated by Graeme Dearden (VA Manager, Learning & Inquiry), as they share their insights and stories. Our panelists will delve into volunteer screening theory and how they’ve applied good practices to support volunteers. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer specialist or new to the field, this panel offers valuable lessons and real-world examples to support your volunteer screening efforts
Video
How Do I Get More Volunteers & Why is That the Wrong Question?
Organizations are struggling to attract more volunteers, but doing more of the same types of things isn’t working. Social media posts seem to go ignored. Traditional media isn’t what it used to be. Putting up posters, if you can even find a place, doesn’t seem to produce results. So what can you do differently? Join Scott Lundell, Volunteerism and Programs Specialist with ECVO to explore different thinking that will enhance your existing recruitment strategies.
Guide
How to Incorporate a Nonprofit in Alberta
Interested in starting a new nonprofit? This updated 2024 guide has been created to provide a basic overview of the formal incorporation process, along with some links for further information, to help you decide if this is the right step for you.
Video
Navigating Background Checks
Join us for a 20-minute webinette that makes understanding background checks easier. You’ll learn about the types of information disclosed, how to manage the process, and how to respond to findings. We hope to build your confidence in managing background checks effectively!
Report
Declining Rates of Volunteerism in Alberta and the Increasing Threat to Rural Municipalities
A 2024 report produced by the Rural Municipalities of Alberta and the University of Alberta’s Centre for Sustainable Rural Communities (ACSRC) to on the state of volunteerism in rural Alberta. The research used 27 in-depth 1:1 interviews with various individuals with knowledge of volunteerism in rural Alberta as the data source, such as reeves, CAOs and a few nonprofit representatives. The report discusses the declining rates of volunteerism, the associated threat to rural communities, and recommendations for addressing these trends.
Video
CONNECT Call: Engaging Youth Volunteers
Youth volunteerism offers many mutual benefits, such as fresh perspectives and skills, building community trust, and promoting lifelong volunteerism. While many nonprofits are eager to welcome youth volunteers, they may experience challenges when engaging young supporters.
In this CONNECT Call, Rayyah Sempala from Action For Health Community shares strategies for welcoming young volunteers. Kyara Reynoso from Volunteer Alberta also offer insights from her experience as a youth volunteer and Youth Engagement Coordinator for our ACSEL program.
This is a members-only resource. Log in or become a member to access this content.
Guide
Starting A Volunteer Centre
In this guide, we’re thrilled to walk alongside to as you take the first crucial steps to creating a hub of community engagement. From looking at what a Volunteer center is, creating a steering, committee, conducting a community assessment, and more!