Dear friends,
Happy New Year to all of you! And welcome to the latest edition of my Community Links Bulletin! The bulletin’s priority is to inform residents and organizations in East Van about the activities and services carried out in our community.
Please join me and my colleague Don Davies (NDP MP for Vancouver Kingsway), and special guest Nathan Cullen (NDP MP for Skeena-Bulkey Valley) for a free community forum on stopping the Enbridge pipeline, and learning about the NDP’s bill to ban oil supertankers off our North Coast. The community forum – Take Back Our Coast – is on Sunday, January 18, at 1 pm, at the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre (1607 East Hastings, at Commercial Drive).
There are plenty of activities happening in our community. For example, there is the Winter Farmers Market, Just Film Festival, and more. And don’t forget February 19th is the traditional Lunar New Year. This year is the Year of the Ram. The annual Lunar New Year – Spring Festival Parade is on Sunday, February 22nd in Chinatown. I hope to see you there!
I wish good health, social justice, equality, and prosperity to all!
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The next deadline for submission to the Community Links Bulletin is Friday, February 20th for the April to June 2015 edition. Listings must be under 40 words and include event, date and time, location, sponsoring agency and contact name and number. Information can be emailed to libby.davies.c1@parl.gc.ca, faxed to 604-775-5811 or mailed postage-free to 2412 Main Street, Vancouver, BC V5T 3E2. Information in the Community Links Bulletin is subject to change without notice. Please check with the contacts provided to ensure accuracy.
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EVENTS & WORKSHOPS
January to April 25 (Saturdays) – Winter Farmers Market / Time: 10 am – 2 pm; Location: 4601 Ontario Street, at East 30th. Each week you can look forward to finding locally grown vegetables and fruit, meat and seafood from local ranchers and fishermen, artisan cheese and bread, herbs and seasonal nursery items, baked goods, prepared foods and artisanal craft. Find a selection of food trucks and hot drink vendors along with market musicians for your enjoyment. There are plenty of covered seating areas and warming stations too. Come meet the producers who make, bake or grow what they sell. For more information, visit http://eatlocal.org/markets/winter-market/.
January 4 (Sunday) – Christmas Tree Chipping for Charity / Time: 10 am – 4 pm; Location: Kingsgate Mall – 370 East Broadway – lower east side parking lot. Keep your Christmas tree out of the landfill and support Mount Pleasant Elementary School’s new community playground. Mount Pleasant BIA and Kingsgate Mall are inviting you to their Annual Tree Chipping Fundraiser. By donation with all proceeds donated to the Mount Pleasant Elementary School Community Playground. Trees that are chipped will be used for Mount Pleasant Elementary School’s new community playground and all proceeds will be used to complete the landscaping around the playground. For more information, contact the Mount Pleasant BIA at 604-874-9816 or email mpbia@telus.net.
February 14 – Women’s Memorial March / The Annual Women’s Memorial March for Murdered and Missing Women will take place on Sunday, February 14. For more information, visit http://womensmemorialmarch.wordpress.com/.
February 16 to 22 – Heritage Week / Heritage BC is proud to announce the new theme for Heritage Week 2015 in British Columbia – Main Street: At The Heart of the Community. Hundreds of communities, large and small, enjoy downtown Main Streets with historic buildings. We recognize heritage as a vital asset to attract tourists, stimulate investment and provide a rich and lively setting for a vibrant mix of social and commercial exchange. Tell us about your community’s Main Street! Post your archive or contemporary photos and let us know how your community is planning to celebrate. For more information, visit http://heritagebc.ca/heritage-week-2015.
Sunday, February 22 – Vancouver Lunar New Year Parade / February 19th is the traditional Lunar New Year, and 2015 is the Year of the Ram. The 2015 Lunar New Year Parade is on Sunday, February 22nd, at 11 am, in Chinatown. Every year Vancouver marks Lunar New Year with celebrations around Chinatown, culminating in the annual Chinese New Year Parade. The parade will feature colourful and energetic lions from the various local fraternal and martial arts organizations. Other highlights include multicultural dance groups representing the diverse segments of our Canadian cultural heritage, marching bands and various community groups. For information, please visit: http://www.cbavancouver.ca/.
March 20 to 22 – The 2015 Just Film Festival / Location: Langara College, 100 West 49th Avenue, at Manitoba Street. The Just Film Festival brings the pursuit of justice to the big screen. Formerly known as the Vancouver World Community Film Festival, the Just Film Fest is one part of the Travelling World Community Film Festival, which travels to communities across Canada. The Just Film Festival is produced by a group of partners including CoDevelopment Canada, Langara College, World Community, Amnesty International and Village Vancouver. It features social justice and environmental documentaries that go to the heart of issues confronting communities here and around the planet. The focus of the festival is to motivate audiences to action by focusing on issues both local and global. It runs for three days at Langara College and is BC’s largest social justice film festival. For more info, visit http://www.justfilm.org/. For more information on the film festival, program, schedule or ticket information, please visit http://justfilm.org/.
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COMMUNITY & GOVERNMENT SERVICES
ARA Mental Health Action Research and Advocacy Association / ARA Mental Health offers advocacy services for mental health consumers living in the Greater Vancouver area. Advocacy or intervention includes: locating resources, accessing food, health and safety issues, medical/dental, substance abuse, child apprehension, appeals and tribunals, safe and affordable housing, legal referrals, counselling and one-on-one support. Hours: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. Address: 163 West Pender Street, Vancouver. Phone 604-689-7938.
BC Coalition of People with Disabilities (BCCPD) / The BC Coalition of People with Disabilities (BCCPD) helps people with all disabilities to live with dignity, independence and as equal and full participants in society. Our Advocacy Access Program assists people to access provincial (PWD) and federal (CPP-D) disability benefits. For an appointment, please phone 604-872-1278.
Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) – Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) The objective of the CVITP is to help eligible individuals who are not able to prepare their income tax and benefit returns by themselves. The CVITP is a collaboration between the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and community organizations. The organizations host tax preparation clinics and arrange for volunteers to prepare tax returns for individuals who have low income and a simple tax situation. The CRA offers training and tax software for the volunteers as well as a network of CVITP coordinators to guide community organizations as they deliver the program. For more information, please visit www.cra-arc.gc.ca/volunteer/. To find a tax preparation clinic, visit http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tx/ndvdls/vlntr/clncs/vancouver-bc-eng.html.
Canada Revenue Agency – Taxpayers’ Ombudsman / The Taxpayers’ Ombudsman is responsible for ensuring that the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) respects the service rights outlined in the Taxpayer Bill of Rights (link: http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/gncy/frnss/rights-eng.html). The Taxpayers’ Ombudsman’s role is to also: conduct impartial and independent reviews of service-related complaints about the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA); facilitate taxpayer access to assistance within the CRA; identify and review systemic and emerging service-related issues within the CRA that have a negative impact on taxpayers; and provide advice to the Minister of National Revenue about service‑related matters in the CRA. For more information on the complaint process, visit http://www.taxpayersrights.gc.ca/menu-eng.html.
Canada Small Business Financing Program / The Canada Small Business Financing Program helps you with your financing needs. Under the program, the Government of Canada makes it easier for small businesses to get loans from financial institutions by sharing risks with lenders. The program’s main objectives are: to help small businesses get started and established firms to make improvements and expand; to improve access to loans that would not otherwise be available to small businesses; and to stimulate economic growth and create jobs for Canadians. For more information, visit strategis.gc.ca/csbfa or call toll-free 1-866-959-1699 or email csbfa-lfpec@ic.gc.ca.
Canadian Red Cross – Children’s Medical Equipment Recycling and Loan Service / The Children’s Medical Equipment Recycling and Loan Service (CMERLS), in partnership with the BC Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD), provides basic medical equipment to clients eligible for the At-Home Program (age 17 or younger) and for Children-in-care (age 18 or younger) across the province. Equipment and equipment adjustments must be prescribed by a therapist or other healthcare professional. CMERLS has a variety of equipment available: wheelchairs; special walkers and standers; bathing and toileting needs; biomedical equipment; and more. For more information, please call 604-709-6669 or visit http://www.redcross.ca/where-we-work/in-canada/british-columbia-and-yukon/bc-specific-programs/children-s-medical-equipment-recycling-and-loan-service.
City Beet Farm – Community Shared Agriculture (CSA) Project / Support your local CSA (Community Shared Agriculture) project. A CSA is based on local agriculture and food distribution – food is grown in the community for the community. You can buy in a share of the farm at the beginning of the growing season and share the harvest together. This is done by a weekly share pick-up, where members can come and collect their box of veggies. It’s a great way to access local, organic, healthy food and interact in your community. For more information, visit http://www.citybeetfarm.com/csa/.
Commissioner for Complaints for Telecommunications Services (CCTS) / The Commissioner for Complaints for Telecommunications Services (CCTS) is an independent organization dedicated to working with you and your telecommunications service provider (TSP) to resolve complaints relating to your telecommunications services. The best way to deal with a complaint about your service is to contact the service provider and try to resolve it directly. However, sometimes that just doesn’t work out. If you need help, CCTS can assist you and the service provider to get the issue resolved. It aims to resolve disputes independently, fairly, efficiently and effectively. For information, visit www.ccts-cprst.ca or call toll-free 1-888-221-1687.
Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention Centre of BC – Vancouver / Distress Line and Suicide Prevention Services – Need someone to talk to? Call the Crisis Centre in Vancouver for immediate, free, confidential, non-judgemental support, 24 hours a day, everyday. Call 604-872-3311. Volunteering – The Crisis Centre in Vancouver is looking for volunteers to answer calls from people in stressful situations and to assist with high school suicide prevention workshops. Four hours a week after excellent training. Call 604-872-1811.
Financial Consumer Agency of Canada (FCAC) / If you have a complaint or feel you have been treated unfairly by a collection agency, you should contact the head of the collection agency, the agency’s ombudsman, the financial institution where you borrowed money, or your provincial regulator. The FCAC can help you determine whom to contact. The agency also informs Canadians of their rights and responsibilities when dealing with financial institutions and makes sure that banks and federally regulated trust, loan and insurance companies respect the laws and agreements that protect consumers. To reach the FCAC, call toll-free 1-866-461-3222 or visit www.fcac.gc.ca.
Frog Hollow Neighbourhood House – Volunteer Opportunities / Frog Hollow Neighbourhood House welcomes you to engage in volunteer and community experience. The experience is an opportunity to gain new skills and at the same time, look for ways that you can use to improve your community. There are many different positions to volunteer in: Drop-in programs for families with children ages 0 to 6; Arts and Crafts; Community Events; Button Making; Garden; and Recycling. For more information, contact Eva at 604-251-1225 x 238 or by email to eva@froghollow.bc.ca. Address: 2131 Renfrew Street, at East 5th Avenue.
Grandview Woodland Community Policing Centre (GWCPC) – Cell Phone Recycling / The GWCPC, a registered non-profit organization, continues to collect cell phones as a way to raise funds for the GWCPC to support its programs & activities. Bring your old cell phone to the GWCPC. When bundled together with charger & battery the cell phones have a higher value. Phones without chargers will also be accepted. All cell phones, no matter how old qualify, so no need to worry if your cell phone is really old or in bad condition! Bring the battery and the charger if you have them. The GWCPC is located at 1977 Commercial Drive (at E. 4th Avenue) and is open these hours: Monday to Thursday, 12 pm – 8 pm; Friday, 12 pm – 6 pm; and Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm.
MPA Society – Mental Health Empowerment Advocates Program (MHEAP) / MPA – MHEAP provides professional advocacy for people living with a mental illness. For over 20 years, the Society assists clients with disability benefits from welfare and / or Canada Pension Plan; access any type of benefit; and complete basic income tax forms. It also helps with residency tenancy disputes and makes referrals to service agencies. MPA also provides outreach and education to other organizations. For more information, please call 604-482-3700 or email advocacy@mpa-society.org.
Office of the Procurement Ombudsman (OPO) / Local businesses: Selling to the federal government can be complex. The numerous requirements and paperwork can seem confusing for even the most seasoned professionals, and even if you succeed in entering into a contract, disputes can often arise. Launched in 2008, the Office of the Procurement Ombudsman (OPO) was created to help Canadian companies involved in federal contracting. As an independent neutral office, OPO helps make sense of the contracting maze by promoting fairness, openness and transparency in federal contracting, sharing important information, examining contract-related complaints and reporting on federal contracting activities. OPO also provides dispute resolution services which serve as a quick and inexpensive means of addressing contract disputes and avoiding legal process. If you would like more information on these services, please visit the OPO website at http://opo-boa.gc.ca/index-eng.html or call toll-free 1-866-734-5169.
OmbudService for Life & Health Insurance (OLHI) / OmbudService for Life & Health Insurance (OLHI) is a national independent complaint resolution and information service for consumers of life and health insurance products, including life, disability, employee health benefits, travel, and insurance investment products such as annuities and segregated funds. For more information, visit www.olhi.ca.
National DO NOT CALL LIST (DNCL) / The National Do Not Call List (DNCL) gives consumers a choice about whether to receive telemarketing calls. If you are a consumer you can choose to reduce the number of telemarketing calls you receive by registering your residential, wireless, fax or VoIP telephone number on the National DNCL. You can also check your registration, find out how to remove your number from the National DNCL, and file a complaint about telemarketing calls. For more information on DNCL or to register, please visit https://www.lnnte-dncl.gc.ca/index-eng.
Service Canada – The Office for Client Satisfaction (OCS) / The Office for Client Satisfaction (OCS) is a neutral organization mandated to accept and respond to citizen feedback about Service Canada, and recommend ways the organization can improve. It helps Service Canada address specific client concerns quickly, and uses the feedback it receives, surveys, and other measures to identify general service issues. Whether you have a complaint about Service Canada that cannot be resolved at the local level, a suggestion for how the organization can improve its service, or some positive feedback, contact the OCS. The OCS does not replace internal redress mechanisms, review or overturn decisions made under legislative authority, but may review service related issues to ensure individuals are treated fairly. It has the capacity to resolve frontline issues brought to its attention by working with all the relevant stakeholders and dealing with the situation accordingly. You can contact OCS by phone, TTY, fax, mail, or by submitting a feedback form, available online through the link below and in Service Canada Centres. To find out more about OCS or for contact information, please visit http://www.servicecanada.gc.ca/eng/ocs/index.shtml.
S.A.F.E.R. (Suicide Attempt Follow-Up, Education & Research) / Trained professionals working to: reduce suicide risk for those in crisis; provide assistance to family and friends who care about them; aid those bereaved by suicide in dealing with their loss; and deliver education, training and consultation on suicide prevention, intervention and post-intervention. Contact information: Intake Worker – Phone: 604-879-9251 (Mon.-Fri., 8:30 am to 4:30 pm), Office: #300 – 2425 Quebec Street, Vancouver, BC V5T 4L6. For 24-Hour Crisis Support, call 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433).
Vancouver Midtown – WorkBC Employment Services Centre / Vancouver Midtown provides services and support to help you in your job search. The centre offers integrated services that are accessible to all British Columbians, including people facing multiple barriers to employment. For more information on the programs and services, please visit its website at www.vancouvermidtownesc.ca. Address: 110 East 3rd Avenue.
Vancouver Northeast Employment Centre / The Vancouver Northeast Employment Centre is operated by MOSAIC, in partnership with Back in Motion, the BC Centre for Ability, Frog Hollow Neighbourhood House, Kiwassa Neighbourhood House, and the Vancouver Eastside Educational Enrichment Society (VEEES), to offer employment services to both employers looking for qualified candidates and local residents looking for work. The Centre is located at 2555 Commercial Drive, kitty corner from the Broadway and Commercial Skytrain Stations. For more information, phone 604-708-9300. There is also an Employment Centre for Youth at 2106 Commercial Drive.
Vancouver Homeless Storefront Office / Veterans Affairs Canada, in partnership with Wounded Warriors.ca, established the Vancouver Homeless Storefront Office to identify and help veterans who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Wounded Warriors.ca is supporting the storefront office initiative by providing funding to offer immediate help to any homeless veterans such as vouchers for emergency provision of food, clothing, shelter and transportation. Contact information: Veterans Affairs Canada, Vancouver Storefront Initiative, 310 Alexander Avenue (in the Veterans Memorial Manor), Vancouver, BC V6A 1C3. Phone: 604-666-0244. Website: www.vac-acc.gc.ca.
Vancouver Police Department – Log It or Lose It Campaign / Log it or Lose It is a campaign to encourage citizens and business owners to record their property in a manner that will help the police return the item to its rightful owner is recovered. Police recover thousands of items yearly that are auctioned because the theft was never reported or the rightful owners did not have a record of their property. Help VPD change this by recording all of your property information. For more information or get a copy of the printed form, click on the link http://vancouver.ca/police/crime-prevention/log-it-or-lose-it.html.
Western Economic Diversification – Women’s Enterprise Centre (WEC) / The Women’s Enterprise Centre (WEC) was established to assist women in starting and growing businesses in BC. It provides: practical skills development, empowerment lending, professional guidance, networking connections, resource library, and events and workshops. Contact Information: Vancouver Office: Suite 82 – 601 West Cordova Street, Vancouver, BC, V6B 1G1 / Phone: 1-800-643-7014 / Fax: 250-868-2709 / Email: inquiry@womensenterprise.ca. For more information, visit www.womensenterprise.ca.
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FUNDING $OURCE$ / AWARD$
American Express (AMEX) / American Express supports non-profit organizations that are preserving and enriching diverse cultural heritage, developing new leaders for tomorrow, and encouraging community service. For more information, e-mail amexcanadafoundation@aexp.com or visit AMEX’s website at www212.americanexpress.com/dsmlive/dsm/int/ca/en/personal/aboutamericanexpress/corporateandsocialresponsibility.do?vgnextoid=8ae9cad2a08c0210VgnVCM100000defaad94RCRD.
Apprenticeship Completion Grant / The Apprenticeship Completion Grant (ACG) is a taxable cash grant of $2,000 maximum available to registered apprentices who have successfully completed their apprenticeship training and obtained their journeyperson certification in a designated Red Seal trade on or after January 1, 2009. For more information, visit www.servicecanada.gc.ca/eng/goc/apprenticeship/completiongrant/program.shtml.
Apprenticeship Incentive Grant (AIG) / The Apprenticeship Incentive Grant (AIG) is a taxable cash grant of $1,000 per year, up to a maximum of $2,000 per person, available to registered apprentices once they have successfully finished their first or second year/level (or equivalent) of an apprenticeship program in one of the Red Seal trades. For more information on eligibility and application deadline, visit www.servicecanada.gc.ca/eng/goc/apprenticeship/incentivegrant/program.shtml.
BC Rehab Foundation – Individual Grant / The BC Rehab Individual Grant is intended for individual funding requests from persons with physical disabilities. The Foundation receives applications requesting equipment such as manual and power wheelchairs, hospital beds and mattresses, wheelchairs ramps, lifts and repairs, and funding for recreation therapy programs, and the list goes on. The allocation committee meets 3 to 4 times a year to review applications and determine funding. It will only consider complete applications so please ensure that you have filled out each component of the application to the fullest extent possible. For more information, please visit http://www.bcrehab.com/applications/individual-grant-programs.
BC Rehab Foundation – Project Grant / This Foundation’s project grant is intended to support initiatives designed to benefit people with disabilities. The Project Grant supports initiatives designed to benefit people with disabilities. For more information on projects supported and funding guidelines, visit http://www.bcrehab.com/applications/project-grant-programs.
Best Buy Canada – Sponsorship Requests or Co-Promotional Opportunities / Sponsorship requests or co-promotional opportunities considered and can be directed to the Marketing Department at: ATTN: Sponsorships/Co-Promotions, Best Buy Marketing Department, 8800 Glenlyon Parkway, Burnaby, British Columbia V5J 5K3. For more information, please visit http://www.bestbuy.ca/en-CA/sponsor.aspx?path=6c0a08db66fdda734bdf20bd0b610425en99.
Birks Family Foundation / This Foundation supports causes in the following areas: Canadian universities through capital campaigns and other special projects; bursary plans at Canadian universities; hospitals, health services, long term care institutions and specialized health organizations; social service agencies; and arts organizations which promote the development and understanding of Canadian culture. For information on funding guidelines, please www.birksfamilyfoundation.ca/.
BMO Financial Group / BMO Financial Group’s support focuses on social responsibility in the communities it serves. As an active participant in Canadian communities, it believes in the possibilities of personal growth and achievement through continuous learning and access to education. Traditionally, it focuses on specific projects or programmes that add value to the scope of services offered by an organization in the following areas: Education; Hospitals, Health and Research; Civic and Community Services; and Arts and Culture. For more information, visit http://www.bmo.com/home/about/banking/corporate-responsibility/community/application-guidelines.
Canada Trust Friends of the Environment Foundation (TD FEF) / TD FEF’s purpose is to promote environmental initiatives benefitting local communities that: Protect the environment and Canadian wildlife; Assist young Canadians in understanding and participating in environmental activities; and Enhance cooperation among Environmental organizations. The following is a list of project examples which may be considered eligible for funding by TD FEF: Recycling/Composting Programs; Community Gardening Programs; Local Food Initiatives, etc. Application is accepted year round. The TD FEF Local Chapter Advisory Boards meet on a quarterly basis to consider grant application requests, with some chapters meeting more frequently. Completed applications received by February 15 will be reviewed during April, and organizations will be notified in May. For more information, visit https://fef.td.com/funding/.
Canadian Heritage – Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage / The Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage Program delivers its funding through three separate components: Local Festivals, Community Anniversaries and The Legacy Fund. The Local Festivals component provides funding to local groups for recurring festivals that present the work of local artists, artisans, or historical performers. The deadlines for Local Festivals applications are January 30, April 30 and September 30. The Community Anniversaries component provides funding to local groups for non–recurring local events and capital projects that commemorate an anniversary of 100 years or greater in increments of 25 years. The deadline date for a Community Anniversary application is January 31. The Legacy Fund provides funding for community capital projects that commemorate a local historical anniversary of 100 years or greater in increments of 25 years. There is no fixed deadline for Legacy Fund submissions; however, project must be submitted at the latest by the date of your anniversary. For more information, please visit http://www.pch.gc.ca/eng/1267799042836/1276800169608.
Canadian Heritage – Celebrate Canada Fund / Canadian Heritage provides financial support for activities organized during the Celebrate Canada period, from June 21st to July 1st. These activities celebrate National Aboriginal Day, on June 21st, Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day on June 24th, Canadian Multiculturalism Day on June 27th and Canada Day on July 1st. In order to ensure that your funding request is processed in a timely manner, you are invited to send us your request as soon as possible, before January 15th, 2015. For more information, visit http://www.pch.gc.ca/eng/1290623024175.
Canadian Tire Jumpstart / Canadian Tire Jumpstart is a community-based program that helps kids in financial need to participate in organized sport and recreation such as hockey, soccer and swimming. The program works with community organizations to form local Chapters that identify and approve the children who receive support. Applications for assistance can be submitted from January 15th to June 1st for Spring/Summer programs; and July 1st to November 1st for Fall/Winter programs. For more information on funding eligibility and deadline, visit http://jumpstart.canadiantire.ca/en/ or call toll-free 1-877-616-6600. Based on your postal code, a representative will provide a contact on the closest Canadian Tire Jumpstart Chapter.
Canadian Western Bank Group (CWB) / The Canadian Western Bank Group’s community investment efforts are focused in three areas – Education; Health Research and Promotion; and Community Development. CWB will only accept requests through the online application process. For more information on funding guidelines, visit http://www.cwbankgroup.com/community-investment/why-we-give.
Carthy Foundation / The Carthy Foundation has two granting programs: Youth – for initiatives that will have a primary focus on adolescent emotional health and wellness or on career transitions for youth and young adults; and Environment – for initiatives that focus on market-based mechanisms, or urban ecology and ecological design. For more information, visit http://www.carthyfoundation.org/.
Choice Markets – Community Giving / Choices Markets support local community groups wherever possible. Some examples of the type of groups supported include: local children’s recreation groups; local elementary and high school events; community fundraising events; and non-profit family and social service organizations. For more information on how to apply, visit http://www.choicesmarket.com/CommunityGiving.aspx.
Citizenship & Immigration Canada – Inter-Action Events / The Inter-Action Events stream provides funding to community based events that foster one or more of the following: Intercultural/interfaith understanding; Civic memory and pride; and Respect for core democratic values. The primary intention is to create concrete opportunities for interaction among cultural and faith communities. For more information, visit http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/multiculturalism/funding/index.asp.
Citizenship and Immigration Canada – The Paul Yuzyk Award for Multiculturalism / The Paul Yuzyk Award for Multiculturalism commemorates the late Senator Yuzyk’s pioneering legacy in establishing multiculturalism as one of the fundamental characteristics of Canadian heritage and identity. The award recognizes individuals, groups of individuals and organizations in communities across Canada who have made exceptional contributions to multiculturalism and the integration of newcomers. Beginning in 2015, three awards will be given annually – one in each of the following categories: Youth; Organization; and Lifetime Achievement or Outstanding Achievement. Award recipients receive a certificate signed by the Minister for Multiculturalism, and are asked to nominate a registered not-for-profit Canadian organization or association to receive a grant of $10,000 in their name. The deadline for nomination is March 2, 2015. For more information, please visit http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/multiculturalism/paulyuzyk/index.asp.
CIBC – Donations and Sponsorship / CIBC supports causes in communities through corporate donations and sponsorship. The areas of focus include: Kids: Provide children and youth in-need with education and training, mentoring, self-esteem and leadership skills as well as healthy and active lifestyles; Cures: Support those living with cancer through programs, services and equipment as well as research into prevention, early detection and treatment; and Community: Assist Canadians in need through skills development, including financial literacy and employment opportunities; increased access to community services and promoting equality and diversity. For more information on funding guidelines and how to apply, visit https://www.cibc.com/ca/inside-cibc/community-matters/funding-guidelines.html.
Coast Capital Savings – Community Investment Grants / The types of projects Coast Capital Savings support must clearly align to its goal to help build a strong financial future for youth in our communities. While it is open to considering a range of requests that speak to this broad goal, it is particularly interested in programs that: provide financial literacy and life skills training for youth; help youth to earn money and become self-reliant through programs that provide work experience or pre-employment training; help youth succeed during their school years through programs such as homework clubs, mentorship programs, and initiatives that encourage high school completion; and provide support to marginalized youth in our communities. Deadlines: Expression of Interest – February 12 / Full Application: March 5 / Notification of Funding: end of May. For more information and 2015 deadlines, please visit https://www.coastcapitalsavings.com/About_Coast_Capital_Savings/Helping_Communities/Funding_Programs/Community_Investment_Grants/.
The Co-operators Foundation – supports healthy communities in Canada through two complementary funds: Co-operators Fiftieth Anniversary Community Fund, which focuses exclusively on supporting registered charities; and Co-operators Community Economic Development (CED) Fund, which supports non-profit organizations and co-operatives. The purpose of these funds is to support community economic development initiatives that lead to job creation and/or enhanced employability for marginalized populations. Proposals for funding are reviewed twice per year. Next application deadline: January 15th for a decision in mid-April. For more information, please visit http://www.cooperators.ca/en/About-Us/foundation/ced.aspx.
Cures for Kids Foundation / Cures for Kids Foundation supports programs for children’s life-threatening illnesses, and raises awareness in the community. The Foundation provides grants of between $500 and $2,500 to qualifying organizations for specific programs and projects. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and are reviewed twice yearly. The Foundation awards grants twice a year: Spring Granting Cycle – Applications due in April, grants made in June; and Fall Granting Cycle – Applications due in October, grants made in January. For more information, please visit http://curesforkids.ca/grants/.
Delta Hotels / The Delta Helps program supports various initiatives including an adopt-a-shelter program where local women’s shelters are provided with personal goods, bedding, towels, and other related items. They also have a community cruiser that visits local events encouraging community volunteerism. Delta properties from coast to coast support a wide range of local causes that benefit our communities. Donation requests are granted to provide support for charitable organizations with their fundraising efforts. Delta’s corporate office gives priority to requests of a national or regional scope from organizations aligned with Delta’s community outreach initiatives. If your organization is located in a community in which a Delta hotel or resort is located, please contact the property directly. Web: https://www.deltahotels.com/About-Delta/Social-Responsibility/Donations.
Dreamcatcher Foundation / The Dreamcatcher Foundation will provide support through grants to individuals and communities with a goal of developing youth as future community leaders. The Dreamcatcher Fund will contribute to eligible applicants in the areas of: arts and culture; education support; health; and sports and recreation. For more information on eligibility and application deadlines, please visit www.dcfund.ca/funding_programs.php.
Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation / The Foundation promotes an appreciation of traditional expression in painting, drawing, sculpture and printmaking, by aiding worthy art students, artists or sculptors who need further training or other assistance during their formative years. Awards are limited to candidates in the early stages of their careers and who are working in a representational style in painting, drawing, sculpture and printmaking. To be eligible, candidates must have already started or completed training in an established school of art; and/or demonstrate, through past work and future plans, a commitment to making art a lifetime career. Web: www.elizabethgreenshieldsfoundation.org/main.html.
Google Grants – AdWords / Google Grants is an in-kind donation program awarding free AdWords advertising to selected charitable organisations. Google supports organizations sharing their philosophy of community service in areas such as science and technology, education, global public health, the environment, youth advocacy, and the arts. For more information, visit http://www.google.ca/intl/en/grants/.
Lotte and John Hecht Memorial Foundation / The Lotte and John Hecht Memorial Foundation has two major objectives: investigation and support of complementary and alternative medicine, particularly in the treatment of cancer; and economic education that promotes the principles of a free market. The Foundation also supplies support to organizations that help people who fall through the social safety net of government programs for the needy. There are three funding cycles each year. Applications will be accepted at any time. For more information, visit www.hecht.org/html/guide/indexg.htm.
S’Cool Life Fund for DREAMS / The S’Cool Life Fund provides funding to Canadian non-profit elementary schools to support DREAMS – drama, recreation, extra-curricular, arts, music, or sports. Each year, it supports on average 100 projects across the country. Since its launch in 2005, the S’Cool Life Fund has provided grants for 910 projects across the country, helping to make school life more enjoyable for thousands of public elementary school kids (K-8). It will be accepting applications for the 2014-2015 school year from December 1, 2014 to January 31, 2015. For more information, visit http://www.scoollifefund.ca/index2.php?id=3.
Service Canada – Canada Summer Jobs 2015 / Need summer help? Looking for a cost-effective way to hire a student this summer? Explore the Canada Summer Jobs initiative, which offers wage subsidies to employers in the private, public and not-for-profit sectors to create job opportunities for young people aged 15 to 30 who are full-time students intending to return to their studies in the next school year. The period to apply for Canada Summer Jobs 2015 will be from December 1, 2014 to January 30, 2015. For more information, please visit http://www.servicecanada.gc.ca/eng/epb/yi/yep/programs/scpp.shtml.
Status of Women – Women’s Program / The objective of the Women’s Program is to achieve the full participation of women in the economic, social and democratic life of Canada. Funding is provided to eligible organizations in support of projects at the local, regional and national levels that address the following three priority areas: ending violence against women and girls; improving women’s and girls’ economic security and prosperity; and encouraging women and girls in leadership and decision-making roles. Funding is available for time-specific projects of 36 months or less that address barriers to women’s participation and equality in Canadian society. Status of Women Canada accepts and reviews applications to the Women’s Program on an ongoing basis. For more information, please visit www.swc-cfc.gc.ca/fun-fin/wcf-fcf/index-eng.html.
Telus – Community Investment / Each year, TELUS Community Board members choose programs that best meet our vision and clearly demonstrate the following criteria: focus on youth; demonstrate social and / or technological innovation in program delivery; fit one of our funding pillars: arts & culture, education & sport, or health & well-being in our environment; and defines and measures outcomes. Application deadline is February 13th, 9 pm PST. For more information, please visit http://about.telus.com/community/en/how_to_get_funded/.
West Coast Environmental Law – Environmental Dispute Resolution Fund (EDRF) / The Environmental Dispute Resolution Fund provides environmental legal aid funding for British Columbians wrestling with environmental problems. It is helpful to have a lawyer or an expert in the right place, at the right time, to help to ensure BC residents have a meaningful role in decisions that affect their land, air and water. Individuals, informal citizen groups, registered not-for-profit organizations, and First Nations may all apply for funding. EDRF accepts and reviews applications on a monthly basis. For more information, please contact the EDRF Manager at 604-601-2503.
Whole Foods Market / Whole Foods Market stores hold community giving days (otherwise known as “5% Days”) where five percent of that day’s net sales are donated to a local non–profit or educational organization. The groups that benefit from these 5% Days are as varied as the communities themselves. If you have questions about donation policy or want support, please contact the Marketing Director at your local. Store. Web: https://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/mission-values/caring-communities/community-giving.