An Advocacy Update from Tracy Folkes Hanson, President & CEO

When the Canadian association sector speaks with one voice, we are stronger.

Earlier this week, I met with a senior policy advisor at Economic Development Canada (EDC). I was encouraged to reach out to regional Parliamentary Secretaries to assist associations in recovering funds lost due to COVID-19.

Thanks to input into a survey conducted by Bramm Research Group, CSAE now has much needed initial data regarding the impact of the virus on associations and the broader not-for-profit sector. The numbers are staggering, with an estimated $156 million lost in the next three months alone.

Whether your group has had to cancel a conference, limit training activities, is missing out on sponsorship resources, or faces a potential membership decline, your voice is vital.

I strongly urge you to send this letter to your regional Parliamentary Secretaries. This effort will put political pressure on the government to establish funding for Canadian associations, and will create opportunities for your association to recuperate costs. Please use the attached list to identify your regional representatives and “cc” the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages.

Advocacy is front and centre in the work CSAE is doing on behalf of members and the sector. To build capacity in this area, we are hosting a webinar, “Adapting your Advocacy Strategy for COVID-19 and the New Normal,” with our advocacy partner Huw Williams of Impact Public Affairs. Mark your calendars for April 7, 12:00 p.m. EDT, and watch for details.

CSAE will continue to press the government, provide updated information and stay connected with you, Through Talk Tuesdays and other virtual events, as well as discussion threads on Associations Connect.