Canadian Federation of Voluntary Sector Networks Established
July 18, 2002, Cross-Canada.
Momentum is growing across Canada to build cohesion in the broader voluntary sector, with the simultaneous and independent emergence of local, regional, provincial, and territorial networks of voluntary organizations. Though different in origin and structure, our member coalitions, councils, consortium, chambers, and initiatives all seek to build healthier communities through a recognized and vibrant voluntary sector.
Eleven such networks have joined together today to form the Canadian Federation of Voluntary Sector Networks to strengthen their impact in their respective communities, regions, provinces, and territories to:
- Exchange information and resources within the voluntary sector
- Facilitate and promote collaboration
- Raise the profile of the voluntary sector
- Build the capacity of the voluntary sector
- Impact public policy development
- Dialogue with other sectors
The Federation will reach out to both existing and emerging initiatives that share these goals, as well as to informal networks of voluntary organizations that wish to explore the many models that we have discovered. Rick Hutchins, of Policy Link New Brunswick, believes that "the strength of any federation is the strength of its members and this federation’s commitment to growing the capacity of networks in every province and territory is critical."
Martin Itzkow, of the Manitoba’s Voluntary Sector Initiative, sees his colleagues leading "networks positioned to impact public policy and increase the awareness of the value of the voluntary sector and as well as networks that operate at a more grassroots level and offer hands-on practical support and technical assistance". He says "both are critical."
"In collaboration with the public and private sectors, we want to raise the bar for those who work in or are volunteers with arts, sports, environment, social services, faith communities, health, education, heritage and multi-cultural organizations. Our dream is that our local community, and in fact all Canadian communities, will embrace the voluntary sector as essential to a civic and just society." says Chair Willy Van Klooster of Pillar: The Voluntary Sector Network (London, Ontario).
"The voluntary sector provides many of the programs and services that contribute to the quality of daily living in each community across Canada. The Federation will allow each Network to maximize their knowledge and resources as they work to strengthen non-profit organizational capacity and leadership in their respective communities", said Brenda Herchmer, Manager of the Centre for Community Leadership at Niagara College one of the established regional networks.
The Coalition of Ontario Voluntary Organization’s Executive Director, Joan Christensen, believes that "The voluntary sector has long been a major partner in service delivery and program development with governments at all levels. In a rapidly changing society, it needs a strong and cohesive voice in developing public policy and private sector partnerships. The Federation is a vehicle through which both the ‘big picture’ and grassroots issues can be discussed and addressed."
Carol Biely, chair of the newly formed Voluntary Organizations Consortium of British Columbia truly values the support and energy generated by getting together with like-minded community leaders. "We know there are more people out there convening groups of engaged citizens to collaborate for the greater good and we invite them to join us!" A symposium is being planned for the fall of 2002.
