(April 8, 2009) - The Calgary Chamber of Voluntary Organizations is disappointed that Alberta Budget 2009 includes a number of changes that reduce support for Alberta's nonprofits and charities. However, facing difficult budget decisions, we recognize the Government's decision to maintain or increase funding for key areas such as arts and culture, seniors, persons with disabilities, sports and recreation, among others.

Changes to the Wild Rose Foundation
The budget cut $8.5 million in funding previously allocated to the Wild Rose Foundation, and $1 million in funding for the Community Initiatives Program. The loss of $9.5 million in funding for community-based organizations could not come at a worse time.  In the current economic environment, many organizations are reporting an increased demand for their programs and services requiring increased funding support, not less.  Other key funding sources such as community and private foundations, and corporate donations and sponsorships have seen a significantly drop in the funds they can grant, and cannot make up this shortfall.

Overall, these changes exacerbate an already uncertain environment and will make it even more difficult for organizations to continue to meet growing community needs. 

Lost Opportunity to Invest in Community Infrastructure
In the face of the current economic downturn, and the call for more shovel-ready projects to help stimulate the economy, it is unfortunate that the Province missed the opportunity to extend the Major Community Facilities Program. In the 2008/09 fiscal year, this program invested $152 million in our communities and if continued, it would have helped kick-start local economic development through upgrading and developing large regional community-use facilities.

Minimal Increase for Preventative Social Services
At a time when the need for preventative social services such as counselling and support for families, children and youth is growing due to the economic downturn, it is very disappointing that the Family and Community Support Services program has only received a $1 million funding increase. The additional 1.4% in funding will not be adequate to meet the growing needs in communities across Alberta. The full implications for Calgary and other regions will not be clear until the funding allocations are made over the coming months.

Other Foundation Funding Maintained
On the other hand, we are pleased that funding for the Alberta Foundation for the Arts; Alberta Historical Resources Foundation; and the Alberta Sport, Recreation, Parks and Wildlife Foundation has been maintained. All of these foundations play a critical role in their respective areas and help ensure that Albertans have access to the services, programs and amenities they need.

Continued Commitment to the Community Spirit Program
The Government is maintaining its commitment of $20 million for the Community Spirit Donation Grant Program. This program, combined with $80 million allocated for the Enhanced Charitable Tax Credit, will support community organizations and encourage individual Albertans to donate at a time when many organizations are facing lower revenues coupled with increasing demand.

The CCVO is welcoming responses and thoughts to the provincial budget.  You can post them here or email them directly to: kmustard@calgarycvo.org