• Donations directed to specific individuals, families, or non-qualified donees

    A donor cannot specify the ultimate beneficiary of a gift, and the gift generally cannot benefit the donor or anyone who is not at arm’s length from the donor. That is, there can be no private benefit. If either of these conditions apply to the gift, CRA does not allow the charity to issue a tax...

  • Use of property

    When a donor gives the use of property (for example, provides the use of one's cottage or car) to a charity, this is not a transfer of property and is therefore not a gift. No tax receipt may be issued. When a charity gives the use of property in return for a gift, however (for example, use of a...

  • Standard D8 Explained

    Why is it essential for employees to be provided with appropriate orientation and training? Orientation improves an employee’s performance, strengthens their commitment to their organization,1 and can promote staff retention.2 An effective orientation process not only conveys the practical...

  • Standard C11 Explained

    Why is it important that anyone seeking or receiving funds on behalf of the organization: a. act with fairness, integrity, and in accordance with all applicable laws – Volunteers, employees, and contracted third parties engaged in fundraising should conform to all standards in Section C of Imagine...

  • Mission Statement - Standard A1 Explained

    What is a mission statement and why is it important? A mission statement is a short, written statement that describes the core purpose of the organization including what it does, for whom and why. The mission statement should be sufficient to guide the strategies and actions of an organization,...

  • Board Terms of Reference - Standard A17 Explained

    Definition: Board Terms of Reference1A document approved by the board that specifies the stewardship responsibilities of the board of directors and their accountabilities to the organization’s members and stakeholders. Why are terms of reference important? Board and committee terms of reference...

  • Donations for the benefit of the donor

    Donations that are primarily intended to benefit the individual making the donation are not eligible for a tax receipt. Benefits to the donor can include: admission fees to concerts or other performances; tickets to attend events where a meal is served or entertainment is provided; events that...

  • Standard E1 Explained

    Why does your organization need policies and procedures related to volunteer involvement? Policies and procedures formalize roles and responsibilities, ensuring that they are understood and carried out consistently throughout your organization.1 Having formal policies and procedures in place...

  • Standard D9 Explained

    Why is it important for organizations to have a work plan or performance objectives? Work plans and/or performance objectives are a key ingredient of any performance management process and can help employees to be more effective in their roles.1 Individual work plans and performance objectives...

  • Standard C12 Explained

    What does “appropriate fundraising policies” mean? While all nonprofit and charitable organizations in Canada depend on some form of fundraising, Imagine Canada recognizes that Canada’s nonprofit sector is incredibly diverse and that organizations have differing needs with regards to fundraising...

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