NON-PROFIT

Non-Profit Organization Preparedness

Non-Profit Organizations (NPO) contribute significantly to the social and economic well being of Canada. The following are among the key findings of an analysis by Imagine Canada:

• Canada’s nonprofit and voluntary sector is the 2nd largest in the world
• there are an estimated 161,000 nonprofits and charities in CanadCanada
• half of these (54%) are run entirely by volunteers
• 2 million people are employed by these organizations representing 11.1% of the economically active population
• the sector represents $79.1 billion or 7.8% of the GDP (larger than the automotive or manufacturing industries)

We live in uncertain times!

In addition to the day-to-day pressures of operating a non-profit organization NPO’s are faced with increasing risk of business disruption, for example computer and/or telecommunications failures, absence of key staff, power failures that undermine the organization’s ability to deliver services to a great number of people and families in all communities. The scope of natural hazards and human induced threats is expanding. Statistics published by the UN and major insurance companies show that natural disasters are increasing in both number and severity. In the last few years alone we have experienced the effects of severe winter storms, devastating floods, wildfires, drought, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and pandemics. And the economic downturn that started in 2008 is still having a crushing impact on communities around the world.

NPO’s are vulnerable to disruption as they have fewer resources and financial backing. A preparedness plan such as B-ReadyNow will enable a NPO to not only reduce the risks of disruption but provide options to effectively respond to and recover from an event that might otherwise cause major disruptions for weeks if not months.

B-ReadyNow addresses the issues faced by many NPO’s in developing contingency plans for disruptions - time, money and resources. The program has been developed in the language of NPO's and small businesses. It is easy to use, uncomplicated and cost affordable - with explanations of the importance of a disruption plan and coaching throughout the process.