I’ve been hearing from our members that you are doing more with less, being asked to provide more services to more clients and not having adequate resources and receiving recognition. That is why it is interesting and reassuring to review the latest research findings Statistics Canada in their National Insights into Non-Profit Organizations report and the 2024 State of BC’s Non-Profit Sector: Under Pressure report released yesterday by Vantage Point. 

  

I should note that not all ASPECT members are nonprofits. However, in my advocacy work, I usually don't make this distinction because all ASPECT members, regardless of their business registration, focus on delivering services and supporting their communities. 

  

According to Statistic Canada, nonprofits produce $216.5 billion in economic activity, equivalent to 8.2% of the gross domestic product. More than two-fifths of non-profits meet the needs and provide services to all Canadians. That was an unexpected, yet not surprising, figure for me. It is no wonder that demand for social services has increased. The report reveals that 70% of the sector was most likely to experience increases in demand. However, their capacity to meet demand did not increase. Overall demand outpaces capacity to meet needs.  

  

In BC, this trend is evident across the province. Vantage Point’s report reveals that the non-profit sector in BC is facing a surge in demand for services and support from clients and communities, while its ability to deliver these services has not increased. Over the past 12 months, the sector has seen decreases in all revenue sources except for government funding, which has remained stable. However, operating expenses for non-profits have risen significantly compared to previous years. Despite these challenges, it is encouraging to read that the sector remains optimistic and hopeful, feeling more needed now than ever. 

  

How can we address the growing gap between funding and need? From ASPECT’s perspective, we are collaborating with public policymakers and politicians to share what is happening on the ground. We are also working with other advocacy organizations on larger issues through groups like the Social Services Sector Roundtable, the Coalition of Community-Based Employability Training, and the National Advocacy Committee for Career Development. Our focus includes addressing labor shortages, Truth & Reconciliation, procurement, community-building, and economic development in the sector. Reports from Statistics Canada and Vantage Point provide the compelling data we need to demonstrate our sector’s impact at local, provincial, and national levels. 

Janet Morris-Reade, CEO, MACD
ASPECT BC