Welcome!

In this section, you will be introduced to a number of community leaders both in video and in writing talking about the Alberta non-profit sector and governance.

Part 1: Overview of the Alberta Non-profit Sector

The non-profit sector represents a substantial segment of our society. It plays a significant role in shaping a community’s quality of life as well as being a major economic driver and employer. When leading as a board member, it is important to understand the environment in which you operate. The environment includes other organizations that may be partners, collaborators, or even competitors as well as the legal frameworks that influence and drive the operations and behaviours of your organization.

Section 1: Introduction

Section 2: Environmental Scan of the Non-profit Sector

• The role of non-profits in shaping our communities
• The non-profits of Alberta and how they differ in size, staff, governance, and mandate
• The differences between non-profit and charitable organizations in Alberta

Section 3: Introduction to the Non-profit Legal Context

• Registered Societies and Companies – What you need to know as a director
• Bylaws and Policies – Your framework for governance
• Membership – What it means, who they are, and how it influences a board

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Explain the impact non-profits have in their community
• Define the differences between non-profits and explain how the laws affect their governance and activities differently
• Explain the differences between bylaws and policies and how they impact and are impacted by the board
• Explain the role of membership within organizations