Umbrella groups

Are you thinking of starting or joining an umbrella group that oversees other organizations? If so, it's vital that you understand all the legal ramifications, including charitable status, following provincial and federal regulations, disbursement quotas, and basic terminology. Umbrella groups can certainly provide a variety of benefits to member organizations as well, something also covered in the podcast.

Umbrella groups

What you need to know about employee dismissal

Unemployment rates continue to climb across Canada, and with nonprofits struggling to raise funds, more and more organizations are looking at the difficult decision of laying off staff. Find out the legal aspects related to layoffs and employee terminations, how the law protects employees, and what your organization must do before letting go of staff, in this podcast.

What you need to know about employee dismissal

Bylaws, letters patent, and constitutions

When an organization in Canada seeks incorporation, it is necessary for them to have a consitution, bylaws, and letters of patent in place. In this podcast, Adam explains each of these terms, describes what types of information must be included in each document, and suggests where organizations can go for more information on preparing them.

Bylaws, letters patent, and constitutions

How HST will affect Canadian nonprofits

In 2010, both British Columbia and Ontario will begin using a harmonized sales tax. This change will have an impact on nonprofits and charities in many different ways, including with regards to federal tax exemptions and disbursement quotas. Listen to this podcast to find out whether your organization will have to pay more in taxes, how your administration costs may drop, and how the HST might affect your clients and donors.

How HST will affect Canadian nonprofits

Membership in an international organization

Many Canadian nonprofits belong to some type of international association and gain valuable benefits from doing so. But membership in an international organization does carry with it some legal ramifications, making it vital for nonprofits to know their rights and responsibilities. In this podcast, Adam and Nicole discuss how this type of membership can affect lawsuits, taxes, and fundraising efforts.

Membership in an international organization