David Gourlay

📣 We’re charting a course to secure appropriate funding that will help stabilize Alberta’s nonprofit sector! ✋ Help us by filling out this short survey and telling us what your organization would do with new funding. Your responses will be used to inform funders, governments, and other stakeholders about sector priorities and help create recommendations on how to best allocate funding dollars. This survey is open to all Alberta nonprofits. https://lnkd.in/gHrTAUZ7 #ABNonprofits

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The Leisure Guide is here!

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International Day for People with Disabilities Conference: Embracing Change for People with Disabilities December 7, 1-4 P.M. EST Call for Speakers - Application Process Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians (AEBC) and partner organizations are hosting a virtual conference for the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Speaker Criteria We are seeking speakers with lived experience with disability, professionals with disability inclusion knowledge, those from the disability community, service providers, businesses, advocates, allies and other interested parties. We are looking for 6 speakers who match the following criteria. Please include your preference as a presenter or panelist. ● Disability awareness activists ● Policy makers or executives in charge of Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) or disability rights ● Government officials focused on disability rights ● Members from organizations or companies focused on disability and equity ● Members from the community with lived experience and stories to share on becoming advocacy changemakers ● Individuals who have made significant progress in helping those with disabilities Main theme: Embracing Change for People with Disabilities Subthemes: · Personal change · Organizational change · Attitudinal change Please note that nominations for speakers are also accepted. We look forward to reviewing your application. Application Process Interested candidates can submit their proposals in writing via email at [email protected] with the subject line “Speaker Application for the 2024 International Day for Persons with Disabilities Conference..” Include in your email: 1. Name 2. Contact information 3. Brief bio and experience with speaking on the topic of disability rights (work, other speaking events, etc.) Why are you interested in being a speaker? 4. Outline on your topic with a summary that is appropriate to the theme or sub themes of the event. 5. Brief description of your social media presence and website 6. Optional - Candidate can share prior speaking presentations or events including video, blogs, recordings, webinars If you would prefer to submit your proposal in another format, please contact us to discuss via email at [email protected] before doing so. Please note that keynote speakers will have a half hour, whereas panelists have 10 minutes each to speak, followed by discussion and Q and A. Key Dates The call for speakers is open until November 15, 2024. Applicants will be notified by November 22, 2024 by the Speaker Review Committee. Partners Accessible Housing Network (AHM) Accessible Media Inc. (AMI) Baker McKenzie LLP CCB Toronto Visionaries Centre for Independent Living in Toronto (C.I.L.T.) Inc. Ethno-Racial People with Disabilities Coalition of Ontario (ERDCO) Trailblazers Tandem Cycling Club Woodgreen Community Services

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Looking forward to going to Halifax this week to work with ACOA leaders as we grapple with the following questions: In responding to the drivers of public service institutional change, how can multiple expectations of a diverse and multigenerational workforce be met within the current public service structure of decision-making and service delivery? How can public service values and ethics be made to resonate today with a diverse and multigenerational workforce? How can I help transform the public service so that government as an institution remains relevant and effectively serves citizens and the government of the day?

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All my procurement friends, be sure to check out our refreshed website to learn about how we can assist you in your purchasing needs. The Resource page is a one stop library for the latest procurement news. #gpo #kineticgpo #grouppurchasing #contractmanagement #bps

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This is a call to my fellow fundraisers! Have you been involved in the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) over the years? If so, will you share your experiences here, so a picture can start to emerge? As you may have heard, the AFP chapter in Toronto has lately been going through a major upheaval. The entire board and staff resigned in 2023, after astounding anti-Black racism within the board and chapter came to light. An interim chair, Mide Akerewusi, was appointed to build an interim board and re-start and transform the org. He is now at the end of his term. I have been watching his (and the interim board's) leadership from afar, and there is SO much more soul, care, compassion, and community than I have ever seen AFP offering naturally over the years. Over the last almost-decade (amazingly, I too am coming to the end of a[n eight-year!] board term this month, and the work started even before I joined the board), we at AFP-Minnesota have been in a similar process of upheaval and transformation. And, in ways similar to what I'm hearing from Toronto, the changes we have been bringing about have met with much resistance. I've especially seen that resistance — and complete disconnect from a more soulful, caring, compassionate, community-focused culture — in AFP Global. AFP Global seems to have evolved over the decades into an overly corporate, hierarchical, top-down organization that is completely detached from what is happening on-the-ground in most of the communities they're serving. I think Global is long overdue for a culture change. In addition to the more "ways of being" parts of the culture change we need from Global, I see a very practical need for this culture change to be from top-down to bottom-up — where Global is no longer trying to direct the chapters from 30,000 feet, but instead taking their marching orders from the grassroots, from the people on-the-ground in the chapters. The other thing I'll mention here is that I first came up as a fundraiser in another city/community, and both there and in Minnesota, where I later moved, I was regularly dissuaded from getting involved in AFP. I have personally experienced a pretty bad rep for this org. And I have made it part of my work to change that reality for the local org in Minnesota. We're getting there. But there's still so much more transformation needed. I have hope that the incoming chair of our chapter's board, Courtney Backen, will bring more of that transformation — especially because she has also been actively involved in the Community-Centric Fundraising movement, so she is bringing that perspective. I am hopeful for Toronto's continued transformation, after the truly yeoman's work that Mide and the interim board have done. But what is YOUR experience with AFP, friends? What's AFP's rep on the streets? What have your (and your friends' and colleagues') experiences with this org been? Whether your local chapter... or the Global org? Dish!

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Special Offer for Ontario 211 Network and Partner Organizations: 🚀 NEW Hands-On Tech Strategy Course for Non-Profit Leaders 🌟 Are you a non-profit leader facing skyrocketing demand, rising costs, and staff burnout? Technology can help, but knowing where to start is challenging. Many organizations struggle with manual processes, failed tech projects, or overextended budgets. It's time to take control of your tech strategy! Join Aine McGlynn, PhD, and Katie Gibson for a hands-on, non-technical, half-day training designed specifically for non-profit leaders like you. 📅 This is an in-person, live course taking place this summer in Toronto. Register at https://lnkd.in/ggZkKy9z 🛠️ What You’ll Learn: Skills: Integrate tech into your strategic decisions and prioritize investments for maximum impact. Knowledge: Stay updated with the latest tech trends in the non-profit sector. Community: Connect with a network of like-minded non-profit leaders and build a support system. 🎓 Eligibility: Senior executives (executive directors, CEOs) of non-profits in Canada. No tech experience required. Special Offer for Ontario 211 Network and Partner Organizations: Ontario 211 Network and partner organizations are eligible for a 15% discount. To get the code, please fill out this form. https://lnkd.in/dZdQeqt4 Take the first step towards a tech-savvy future for your organization. Let's make technology work for you!

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I attended the final Session of the Canadian Olympic Committee, before the #Paris2024 Olympics and Paralympics. We covered a great deal of ground: a new strategic plan; implications of the recent federal budget; the coming "Future of Sport in Canada Commission". The Paris Games will focus public attention on high performance sport. This increases the opportunity for the Olympic movement to make the case for sport as a public good, worthy of public support. It also heightens the urgency for sport institutions to put their houses in order, in protecting athlete rights, fostering greater inclusion, and improving governance. https://olympic.ca/ 🍁🏅

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I love making these 60 second success stories for two reasons: 1. It's amusing to see how fast I can talk when I have a deadline of 60 seconds. ⏰ (Full disclosure, I did have to put this video on 1.1 speed to hit the goal time!) 2. From the marketing department, it's not often that I have the opportunity to deep dive the stories our customers tell. When I make these, I truly get to understand the obstacles our nonprofit storytellers face & how we help overcome them. 🦊 What story can you tell in 60 seconds? #nonprofitstorytelling #memoryfox

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The second of four amazing guest speakers that joined our SMGT 204 - Sport Event Management course at Saskatchewan Polytechnic this semester was: Sandra Murray-MacDonell, CEO, Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association The purpose of the course is to gain the skills required to plan and manage a sport event. Sandra shared about Risk Management in Sport Events. She shared about the basics as well as some fantastic specific advice on how to mitigate against specific risks. Stay tuned for more posts featuring amazing sport industry guest speakers and student projects! #elevatingthefutureofsport #workintegratedlearning #leadingtherise

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Non-Profit leaders - if you're like me, you are probably losing sleep over the speed of technology advances and perhaps feel ill-equipped to know what is needed and how to adopt these technologies responsibly. Knowledge is power...learn from some of the best and make tech work for you. And perhaps enjoy fewer sleepless nights!

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The Enabling Accessibility Fund - Small Projects Component is now accepting applications! This funding opportunity, offered by Employment and Social Development Canada, aims to enhance accessibility for persons with disabilities across communities and workplaces nationwide. Key Details: Application Period: July 23, 2024 Funding Amount: Up to $125,000 for projects lasting up to 2 years Who Can Apply: Not-for-profit organizations, for-profit organizations, indigenous organizations, municipal and territorial governments Make a Difference Today: Whether you're improving access to community activities, programs, services, or employment opportunities, your project can create meaningful change. Act now to empower persons with disabilities and build a more inclusive Canada! Apply Now and Transform Accessibility: https://lnkd.in/gusAcXx #Accessibility #FundingOpportunity #InclusiveCanada

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A great panel discussion!

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🚀 Empowering Canada's Future through SDG Action 🌍 Five Essential Steps for Engaging in SDG Action Localized SDG Action: Real-Time Impact Engage in activities that address all 17 SDGs. Our Community of Guardians platform enables everyone to participate in challenges designed and submitted by verified knowledge experts. Each task is actionable and measurable, ensuring tangible impact. Inclusivity and Engagement: Diverse Voices, Unified Goals We invite participation from all demographics, including Indigenous, BIPOC, 2SLGBTQI+, individuals with disabilities, and those from low socioeconomic backgrounds. We aim to empower everyone with tools and opportunities to contribute meaningfully to sustainability efforts. Innovation and Knowledge Sharing: Bridging Tradition and Science Our platform integrates Indigenous knowledge with modern scientific practices. Traditional Indigenous knowledge keepers, scientists, industry leaders, and practitioners can contribute as experts, enriching our approach to solving global issues. Measurement and Accountability: Transparent Progress Tracking Every completed challenge requires a survey and proof of completion, fostering accountability and helping collect valuable UN indicator data. Transparency and measurable outcomes are key to continuous improvement. Building a Sustainable Future: Rebuilding Trust in Science Post-COVID, rebuilding trust in science is crucial. Our platform promotes understanding of the scientific process and its role in addressing global challenges. By encouraging citizen science, we aim to demystify scientific endeavors and inspire collective action. Knowledge Sharing and Challenges CoGs provides a unique space where knowledge experts, including traditional Indigenous knowledge keepers, can share mini-lessons and actionable challenges. This helps everyone become more aware of their actions and encourages behavior change that supports sustainability. We've also designed a "What's my Number" Quiz to help members discover their SDG number. Each SDG group is represented by superhero mascots, making engagement personal and motivating, encouraging members to see themselves as fighting for a better world. Our Goals and Impact Our initiative aims to: Enhance knowledge sharing among everyone. Foster new and innovative approaches to sustainability. Create measurable impacts through SDG-aligned challenges. Build trust and collaboration across diverse communities. By mobilizing individuals across Canada, CoGs aims to ignite a nationwide movement towards sustainability, one challenge at a time. Join us in this transformative journey and be part of the change we all aspire to see. Together, we can make a difference! 🌟 https://lnkd.in/dHQw4veH #Sustainability #SDGs #CoGs #whatsmynumber #Innovation #KnowledgeSharing #Inclusivity #Science #CitizenScience #TakeAction #SustainableFuture

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We are seeing harsh truths about the current housing crisis in Toronto and its significant impact on youth 🏠 AMDF believes that supporting charities focused on prevention, early intervention, and comprehensive wraparound support services is crucial in addressing this growing problem and helping to mitigate challenges that youth are facing. Statistics from Youth Without Shelter: https://lnkd.in/ePZpR2ez

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In 2023, The Nonprofit Vote created 5️⃣ policy priorities to support Alberta’s nonprofit sector based on the past few years of our State of the Sector reports. We have made progress on 3️⃣ of those priorities (a workforce strategy, better data collection, a door to government) and now we are focussing on appropriate funding. We think we’ll get further if we get more specific about our funding priorities and we need your help to do so. Share what your funding priorities are in this short survey and we’ll share the findings with funders, government, and other stakeholders and use it to shape our future shared advocacy efforts.

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Highlighting the importance of identifying transferable skills and the benefit of having guidance during career transitions is so important. This is an excellent article 😊 https://lnkd.in/gbnY_2Xg

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These are going to be fun! Are you looking to give your Councillors a simple, clear explanations of your technology stack and transformation program? Or a detailed and nuanced discussion of the ethics of your smart city and data program? Either way, we've got you covered :-)

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Some members of Council have been spreading misinformation about the savings proposed in this year’s budget, so let's clear the air. ➡️ What we didn’t do: We never proposed cutting funding for mental health or the low-income transit pass. Instead, we called on the Province to step up and help fund these critical services while ensuring The City continues to support them. ✅ Reductions we did propose: • Executive Leadership: $2.5M • Corporate Management travel, hosting, meals 50% reduction: Minimum $1.39M (travel alone) • Tax shift reduction (0.5%): $12M in relief for homeowners • Transit-oriented development studies: $24.5M • Secondary suite incentives: $10M • Tax rebate: $24M in relief for homeowners • Cowboys Park capital upgrade: $4.1M That is about $54-$78 million, depending on tax shift decisions, and doesn't even include the massive debt cancellation for our proposal to cancel electric buses. Could we have pushed deeper into the organization to find more savings? Absolutely. But the majority of Council rejected even these practical, common-sense reductions, making it clear that more ambitious proposals wouldn’t have gained support this year. It wasn’t worth bringing forward more efficiencies when even these straightforward ideas were dismissed. Transparency matters. Accountability matters. Calgarians deserve a City government that prioritizes relief and responsible spending—and I’ll keep fighting to make that happen. #yyccc #yyc #calgary

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