IONS - Impact Organizations of Nova Scotia

Leading Nature-Based Retreats
2022-09-01 - 2022-09-03 | FireLoch, 1442 Hwy 7, Lochaber, Nova Scotia, B2G 2L3, Canada
FireLoch Folkschool is pleased to host Heath Dawson, an experienced forest school and nature-based retreat leader from Dublin, Ireland. Heath will be travelling to NS in August for an international axe throwing competition and has offered to extend his travels to join us as a facilitator at FireLoch.
Together, Heath and the FireLoch team have been dreaming about a small group gathering that could connect a local community of folks keen to learn more about or deepen their practice of nature-based learning. This would be an offering for forest school leaders, mental health or nature based retreat convenors, outdoor adventure leaders and anyone curious about ways to offer impactful, safe, and engaging nature-based learning.
Taking what Heath has learned from leading bushcraft and outdoor leadership as a lead instructor of Ray Mears Woodlore school, and his freelance work with the Bear Grylls Survival Academy, we see this as an opportunity to bring new skills to our region and to create a forum where existing skills can be shared in exchange as well (all attendees can be part of the facilitation team by making an offering of your own!)

Together we will learn from Heath about
* Unique dynamics of outdoor facilitation
* Peace building with nature based experiences
* Ideas for engaging nature based content: building nature based structures, teaching survival skills, outdoor games for all ages

We will also:
* Live together on the land, sharing meals (food provided) and camping or building structures together to sleep in
* Try our hand at new skill development : axe throwing, fire building, foraging, night orienteering, sharing the skills of those who gather
* Apply what we have learned by ending the gathering with an offering of programming as a half day workshop for the public to join in at FireLoch

This will be a three day gathering, one day to arrive and orient, build connections and begin our journey, one day to be in a learning community together, and one full day to share what we have learned and to spend time to close our circle together. The final day is an optional overnight where you can have family or friends join you at FireLoch for a campout since you’ll be all set up and have many new skills to show off 🙂

Practicalities:
We will provide:
* food for three days
* paddleboard/canoe/kayaks for use during your visit
* wood burning pizza oven and forest sauna available for use
* outdoor shower and washroom facilities (outhouse/incinerating toilet)

Participants will need to bring:
* camping gear and associated clothing and gear for three days of outdoor living, * camping equipment will be available for loan but in limited amounts so please contact if this is required
* a swimsuit for the lake and/or sauna
*Bug spray, tick and sun protection and weather appropriate clothing (rain or shine event)
*Music, games, skills to share

Cost:
Sliding Scale: You can select the rate most accessible to you – contact us for more information at firelochcentre@gmail.com to secure your spot!

Introduction to Natural Building_Hands On!
2022-06-25 - 2022-06-26 | The Deanery Project, 751 W Ship Harbour Rd NS, Ship Harbour, Nova Scotia, B0J 2L0, Canada
Please share this powerful learning opportunity widely.
Gaining skills, and understanding opportunities, for making a deep difference in minimizing our environmental building footprint is critically important in this time.

June 25 – 26th
Instructors: Charles Williams and Kim Thompson
Cost: $350 (includes amazing food, lodging and HST)

Two packed days of in-depth, inspiring tours of on and off-site natural building examples including straw bale, cob, earthship, hemp crete, round wood, wattle and daub, followed by related hands-on learning projects.
For more details and to register click here.

Intro to Natural Building
2022-06-25 - 2022-06-26 | The Deanery Project, 751 W Ship Harbour Rd NS, Ship Harbour, Nova Scotia, B0J 2L0, Canada
Intro to Natural Building:
Sat June 25 – Sun June 26 9am -6pm
Includes tours of natural building examples, conversations with builders, hands-on learning projects. Lodging: bunk rooms or tenting included in fee.
$350 (includes food, one night’s basic lodging & HST)
To Register Visit: http://thedeaneryproject.com/natural-building-course-at-the-deanery/
For more info: please email Charles Williams at Haplo9@gmail.com Phone: (902)845-1888

2022 State of the Community Impact Sector: Survey Data, Map & Dashboard
2022-06-23 09:30 - 10:30 (America/Halifax)
Join us to learn about new data from Nova Scotia’s Community Impact Sector! We’ll share our most recent survey report and more!

2022 State of the Community Impact Sector: Survey Data, Map & Dashboard Launch!
In February-March, IONS distributed the 2022 State of the Community Impact Sector survey as a follow up to the one included in the 2020 State of the Sector report. We also worked behind the scenes gathering data for a new online dashboard and interactive map to better understand what’s happening across the sector.

Join us on June 23rd as we share what we heard in the survey about challenges and opportunities facing nonprofits and charities in Nova Scotia. We’ll also give a tour of the dashboard and map so you can revisit it in your own time and use it to support your work. We hope to see you there!

Community Conversations
2022-06-14 09:00 - 11:30, 2022-06-13 13:00 - 15:30, 2022-06-09 09:30 - 12:00, 2022-06-08 09:30 - 12:00, 2022-06-07 13:30 - 16:00, 2022-06-03 09:00 - 11:30, 2022-06-02 10:30 - 13:00, 2022-05-25 09:00 - 11:30 and 2 more dates
IONS is hitting the road! Join us for an engaging ideation session around transforming the Community Impact (Nonprofit) Sector.

Decolonization Learning Journey: Series 5 "Reconciliation in Action"
2022-06-06 13:00 - 2022-06-20 15:00
Join us for the fifth series of the Decolonization Learning Journey with Mi’kmaw Elders and knowledge carriers.

Decolonization Learning Journey
In response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, IONS (formerly the Community Sector Council of Nova Scotia) embarked on our own organizational learning journey in the fall of 2018.
As part of IONS’ ongoing commitments, our goal is to continue to deepen individual and organizational understanding of Canada’s shared history with Indigenous Peoples to build capacity and to mobilize the Community Impact Sector. IONS took a shared leadership role in co-creating a shared learning space across the province and country to create dialogue, genuine shifts, and meaningful movement toward reconciliation. In partnership with Unama’ki College at Cape Breton University, we launched the “The Decolonization Learning Journey” in June 2020 and have offered four online webinars series since (which can be found on our website here). Join us for the fifth series this spring, as we incorporate and practice reconciliation and living as Treaty People.

Series 5: Reconciliation in Action
We cannot get to Reconciliation without truth, and we cannot be ready without being aware. Series 5 “Reconciliation in Action” builds on the foundation series of the Decolonization Learning Journey. The capacity to learn, grow, and bring reconciliation to life increases when we are taking challenging steps with purpose, courage, and humility – and while surrounded by peers who are sharing the experience. This series will focus on understanding what Reconciliation is and why it’s vital work (TRC, Treaty Education, UNDRIP, moral duty) to be able to move in ways that center authentic relationships and wise action.

This series is comprised of three (3) virtual sessions via Zoom scheduled for the first three Mondays in June from 1:00-3:00pm (ADT):

Session 1: Monday, June 6th: Treaty Education as a Relationship

Session 2: Monday, June 13th: Acknowledging the Land

Session 3: Monday, May 20th: Working with Indigenous Communities

NOTE: All sessions are being recorded and the recordings will be available on our website (here) within one week of each session.

Webinar Descriptions and Details:
Monday, June 6 – Treaty Education as Relationship
Description: The Treaties that apply to this part of Mi’kma’ki (Nova Scotia) are rooted in peace and friendship. Although they are a critical part of understanding our broader context, Treaty Education is the title given movement related to understanding what it means to be a “Treaty Person”which includes everyone who calls this province home. Although the Treaty Education initiative has only been afoot since 2015, the unique approach to establishing it has created numerous opportunities for participants to re-imagine a way to change conversations around the dinner tables about Reconciliation and why relationships are at the root of it all.
Hosting Team: Elder Jane Meader, Wyatt White, Nicole Cammaert
Knowledge Sharers:

Jacqueline Prosper, Treaty Education Lead at Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey
Celeste Sulliman, Director, Treaty Education at Nova Scotia Office of L’nu Affairs
Ann Terese Doucette, Mi’kmaq Relations Officer – Cape Breton Field Unit of Parks Canada

Monday, June 13 – Acknowledging the Land: There is much to learn and understand between the intent and potential impact of making territorial acknowledgement statements as part of your organization’s “standard of practice”. While this practice has become quite mainstream, the impact or value is negligible unless there is a desire to use this action as a steppingstone towards something greater. Here in Mi’kma’ki, L’nu people will often close a prayer or moment of sharing with the phrase “Msit No’kmaq” which translate to “All my Relations.” If you understand how important interconnectivity amongst all beings within the Mi’kmaw worldview, you will gain a deeper understanding of just how important acknowledging a territory really is.
Hosting Team: Elder Jane Meader, Wyatt White, Nicole Cammaert
Knowledge Sharers:

Laurianne Sylvester, Dean, Unama’ki College at Cape Breton University
Melody Martin-Googoo, Coordinator of Mi’kmaq Education & Services at Chignecto-Central Regional Centre for Education
Sarah Prosper, Dancer & Artistic Director of Samqwan
Amy Grant, Lead Storyteller at Pink L’nu
Aaron Prosper, Indigenous Health Consultant, NS Health Authority

Monday, June 20 – Considerations when working with Indigenous Communities
Description: Your motivation to connect with a Mi’kmaw community or organization should guide your method of engagement. Everyone seeks to respect the people, culture, history, customs and traditional practices of the first people of this territory, especially when forming or growing a working relationship. With a healthy dose of humility and capacity to listen, you’ll find that Mi’kmaw communities and organizations are also deeply interested in opportunities to support healthy, vibrant communities who are empowered and engaged with the world around them. This session will cover various important considerations and mindsets to carry forth when working with Indigenous communities.
Hosting Team: Wyatt White, Nicole Cammaert
Knowledge Sharers:

Annie Battiste, Reconciliation Consultant and Speaker at Office of the Treaty Commissioner, Saskatchewan
Denise DiGiosia, Senior Advisor, Mi’kmaw and Indigenous Initiatives (L’nuey Nikanus) at NSCC
Robert Bernard, Pantiteketew (Path Maker) and owner of Indigenous Guide Consulting Services

Promising HR Practices: Pregnancy Loss and Bereavement
2022-05-18 10:00 - 12:00
Join us May 18 as Dr. Stephanie Gilbert discusses effective bereavement practices & compassion support for those experiencing pregnancy loss

Promising HR Practices: Pregnancy Loss & Bereavement Support
Join us virtually on May 18th, 10 am – 12 pm
Learning Stream: Healthy Workplaces

Though it’s not widely known or discussed, pregnancy loss can happen 1 out of 4 pregnancies. With women making up the majority of the Community Impact Sector, sadly many employers in the sector will work with pregnant people or partners of those who may experience a stillbirth or miscarriage. How a leader responds in the first few minutes of learning of this news can have lasting psychological effects on the individual. Often employers are not aware of the bereavement supports in the form of paid leave, thus not able to help those deeply grieving a pregnancy loss navigate the various programs.
This webinar will discuss the difficulties in the aftermath of pregnancy loss in the workplace and its implications for both the employee and the organization. Topics will include the unique issues of pregnancy loss at work, including the physical and psychological effects on an employee’s health and how that translates to the individual’s ability perform at work. For those seeking HR support and “promising practices”, this session will focus on creating a psychologically safe work environment for pregnancy loss disclosure and compassion support, effective bereavement practices for pregnancy loss, and leave options for employees suffering from pregnancy loss.

Learning Objectives:

Develop an awareness of the issues faced by employees experiencing pregnancy loss.

Understand the four characteristics of effective bereavement support in the workplace.

Understand the leave options available to employees via government or organizational programs and policies.

Who Is this webinar For?
This webinar is open to anyone in the sector who wants to learn more about compassionate HR and leadership practices when responding to bereavement support, with a particular focus on pregnancy loss.

Meet the Speaker:

Dr. Stephanie Gilbert is an Associate Professor in the Shannon School of Business at Cape Breton University. She received her doctorate in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Saint Mary’s University. Her research examines predictors of leadership effectiveness and emergence, including leaders’ own motivation for leadership, and examines how grieving employees experience work. Dr. Gilbert has worked with a variety of industries including healthcare, non-profit, for-profit, and start-up businesses and she teaches in the areas of leadership and organizational behaviour.

Tuesday Night at the Movies - the Deanery Project
2022-05-10 19:00 - 21:00 | The Deanery Project, 751 W Ship Harbour Rd NS, Ship Harbour, Nova Scotia, B0J 2L0, Canada
Cozy up by the fire and the big screen for “The Biggest Little Farm”. May 10th 7:00 – 9:00 pm. All welcome.

“The Biggest Little Farm chronicles the eight-year quest of John and Molly Chester as they trade city living for 200 acres of barren farmland and a dream to harvest in harmony with nature. Through dogged perseverance and embracing the opportunity provided by nature’s conflicts, the Chesters unlock and uncover a biodiverse design for living that exists far beyond their farm, its seasons, and our wildest imagination. Featuring breathtaking cinematography, captivating animals, and an urgent message to heed Mother Nature’s call, The Biggest Little Farm provides us all a vital blueprint for better living and a healthier planet.”

Black History Learning Journey: Series 3
2022-05-02 13:00 - 2022-05-30 15:00
Join us Mondays in May for the third series of the Black History Learning Journey: Perspectives from the Front Line.

Black History Learning Journey – Series 3
Nova Scotia is home to over 50 historic African Nova Scotian communities with a long, deep, and complex history dating back over 400 years. The Black History Learning Journey is an exploration of systemic racism, a history of colonization, and the impact on the Black experience today. As part of our continued JEDDI commitments (Justice, equity, decolonization, diversity, inclusion), the goal of the learning journey is to increase individual and organizational participation in shared educational spaces, create meaningful dialogue, mobilize the sector, and provide tangible ways to combat anti-Black racism in our province.
To help lead and guide the conversation, Impact Organizations of Nova Scotia (IONS) and the African Nova Scotia Decade of People of African Descent Coalition (ANS DPAD Coalition) have co-designed this insightful and engaging learning series to increase awareness about the Black Nova Scotian/ Canadian experience. By examining the past and the present and challenging ourselves to have meaningful, honest conversations about race, systemic anti-Black racism, and decolonization – we can lead a more inclusive future. For there to be transformative change, we must commit to carrying out the long overdue, vital anti-oppression work.
Following Series 2 of the Black History Learning Journey “From Past to Policy: Systemic Barriers Built & Reinforced , we’re excited to bring you the third series of this e-learning journey. Starting May 2nd, series 3 “Perspectives from the Front Line” will provide a platform for sharing of lived experiences to better understand the realities of the African Nova Scotian community. Examining the histories and the present through a mix of intergenerational voices, series 3 highlights perspectives that will provide education on systemic inequities, spotlight Black Excellence and resilience, and help us reflect on our role in building a just Nova Scotia.

Series 3: Perspectives from the Front Line
This series will provide an in-depth look at the cultural experiences of African Nova Scotian communities across the province; the similarities between the experiences of youth and those of the elderly – how much has really changed for Black communities in the province? We will discuss dynamics for newcomers of African Descent as they make Nova Scotia their home. The series will also dive into the experiences of Black political figures who are advocating for change. How do politics serve or under-serve the African Nova Scotian community? All these topics and more will be explored through a suite of facilitators, guests, and panelists who bring a wealth of lived experiences, expertise, and passion for community care and advocacy.

This series is comprised of four (4) virtual sessions via Zoom scheduled for every Monday beginning May 2nd from 1:00-3:00pm (ADT).

Session 1: Monday, May 2nd: Cultural Experiences Across the Province

Session 2: Monday, May 9th: Intergenerational Panel

Session 3: Monday, May 16th: Newcomer Experience

Session 4: Monday, May 30th: Politics & Governance

NOTE: All sessions are being recorded and the recordings will be available on our website (here) within one week of each session.

Musical May Open House
2022-05-01 09:30 - 15:00 | The Deanery Project, 751 W Ship Harbour Rd NS, Ship Harbour, Nova Scotia, B0J 2L0, Canada
Open House
About: Our regular first Sunday a month open house.
10:00-12:00 Preschool aged Forest School ($10) Sounds in the Forest
12:00-3:00 Pizza and Music
1:00-3:00 Deanery tour including natural building and permaculture installations
1:30-:300 Canjo Workshop ($25)
Age Group: All ages
Time: 10-3 pm
Price: Food for sale and $10 for Forest School

Canjo Workshop
2022-05-01 09:30 - 12:30 | The Deanery Project, 751 W Ship Harbour Rd NS, Ship Harbour, Nova Scotia, B0J 2L0, Canada
What’s a Canjo you say?
Well how about you find out at the Canjo Workshop!
Sunday May 1st
9:30 – 12:30
Only 3 hours and $25 and you will have one to take home!
P:(902)845-1888
E: thedeaneryproject@gmail.com
Canjo Registration form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe9CS0r1NnYdKvZ6aruz_Ub2dC3Ww9W3E0RDlMcpc4VtqehSg/viewform?usp=sf_link

Fruit Tree Pruning Workshop
2022-04-30 10:00 - 12:30 | The Deanery Project, 751 W Ship Harbour Rd NS, Ship Harbour, Nova Scotia, B0J 2L0, Canada
Fruit Tree Pruning Workshop
Saturday April 30
Come learn how to prune your fruit trees with horticulturist Jim Turner. During this workshop, you will gain practical hands-on experience pruning your fruit trees.
Age Group: All ages
Time: 10-12:30 am
Price:cost $40 for the workshop. If you want to take home multiple tree you pre-order additional scion/rootstock for $20 per stock/scion pair (limit 3/per person)
Lunch: $12
REGISTER HERE

Community Impact Sector Day of Recognition (Virtual)
2022-04-29 13:00 - 15:00
You’re invited to a special event April 29th to celebrate the contributions of the Community Impact (Nonprofit) Sector in Nova Scotia!

Community Impact Sector Day of Recognition!
Join us in celebrating the people and the impact organizations (nonprofits) that tirelessly serve our province, strengthening our quality of life and delivering a range of vital services to meet the needs of those in Nova Scotia.
Employing over 20,000 people, this sector strengthens our quality of life and delivers on impact. It provides housing and language services to newcomers; offers breakfast programs in schools, coordinates mental health outreach and social interactions to seniors; empowers and mentors youth from 2SLGBTQIA+, African Nova Scotian, and Mi’kmaw communities; delivers sport and recreation programs; saves endangered species and wildlife; provides a safe haven for women and non-binary people experiencing gender-based violence; advocates for climate justice; creates art and music programs; and so much more.
Hundreds of thousands of Nova Scotians benefit from the Community Impact Sector every day. Those who work in the sector are passionate, strategic, diverse, innovative, and humbly committed to their work. Looking back on the past two years in particular, the sector has persevered through it all. Some words of appreciation, and time to pause and reflect on accomplishments are overdue.
It’s time to celebrate! Please join us virtually for the festivities on April 29th from 1-3PM. Hosted by Portia Clark from CBC’s Information Morning, there will be awards, words of inspiration, and live artistic performances.

Hosted by Portia Clark

Portia Clark is the host of Information Morning for Mainland Nova Scotia on CBC Radio One. Portia is an established journalist with a solid reputation as a trusted interviewer who has covered some of the country’s biggest stories throughout her 20-year career with CBC. Her first introduction to the airwaves was working as a reporter, producer and newsreader in Halifax in 1998.
In 2000, she moved west to CBC Edmonton for a news-reading job, which was followed by a year co-hosting the morning show, Edmonton AM, then making the switch to television to host Edmonton’s supper-hour newscast, CBC News Edmonton. In 2012, she went back to radio to host the Edmonton afternoon current affairs show, Radio Active. She returned home to Nova Scotia with her family in April 2018 to take on the role of host for Information Morning.
Portia has strong roots in rural Nova Scotia, having grown up in Sandy Cove on Digby Neck and in Bear River. She graduated from Annapolis West Education Centre, holds a BA in Philosophy from Dalhousie University and is a graduate of the Broadcast Journalism program at the British Columbia Institute of Technology. She is actively involved in her community and enjoys participating and supporting a variety of local community events.

Live Artistic Performances by:

Drummers from Home
Drummers From Home is a unique collective of five individuals who have come together out of their love of African and world beat rhythms. Over the years the group has developed a unique chemistry and work hard to incorporate the various backgrounds and personalities of the players. This afternoon, we have two members of the group with us.
Ayo Aladejebi has been drumming since he was a youngster in Nigeria. His drumming has strong Yoruba, southern Nigerian roots. Ayo helps to anchor many of the compositions with polyrhythms.
Robert Leek came to Drummers From Home in 2017. Originally from New Brunswick, Robert brings strong Carib and African rhythms to the group. His spacing and accents give creativity to the playlist.

Bria Miller
Bria Miller (they/ she) is a Queer, Black + African Nova Scotian multidisciplinary visual artist born and raised in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, now residing and creating within North End Kjipuktuk (Halifax), Nova Scotia since 2013. Bria has worked as a professional artist, curator, graphic facilitator, arts educator, event organizer, DJ, and poet amongst many other odd art jobs since moving to Halifax in 2011. Over 2022, their goal is to create new works and collaborate as much as possible while growing their small business, Bria Makes Things
Michael Saulnier
Michael Saulnier is a musician from Clare, Nova Scotia. He is the singer of the new acadian pop punk band Peanut Butter Sunday and also plays folk music. When he doesn’t have a guitar in his hands, he spends his days at JD Composites building houses made of 100% recycled plastic bottles.

Guyleigh Johnson
Guyleigh Johnson is a Published Author, Spoken Word Artist, Community Advocate and Arts Facilitator from North End Dartmouth. She has a passion for writing and speaking about inner and collective healing. As a Arts Facilitator she teaches youth about the power of word’s, mindfulness and mental health. She’s published two books Expect The Unexpected and Afraid Of the Dark dedicated to youth in her community. In 2018 she won the Ancestral Roots Award for the Written/Visual Arts category presented by the Delmore Buddy Daye Learning Institute. She recently started a job at Dalhousie University as an Assistant Registrar for Admissions & Recruitment. Whether you follow her on social media or know her in real life she is starting the conversation for change. Her purpose is to encourage, empower and educate, while creating pathways and opportunities for youth in and around her community!

General Khan
General Khan is an artist and community organizer, born and raised in Kjipuktuk, Mi’kma’ki (Halifax, Nova Scotia). For General Khan, poetry is an expression that is tied to her identity as a displaced Pashtun. Her art style is influenced by her lived experiences with oppression such as white supremacy, colonialism, displacement, racism, islamophobia, disability justice, and more. You might have seen her at protests and actions around the city. Her friends know her for her big smile and even bigger heart.

Emma Stevens
19 year-old Emma Stevens from Eskasoni First Nation (NS) has become a music
sensation all before graduating high school. With the release of Steven’s debut song “My
Unama’ki” in 2018, her musical journey was just beginning. “My Unama’ki,” a celebration of the
strength and resiliency of Mi’kmaq culture in Cape Breton has become Steven’s signature song
and is regularly a part of events across Cape Breton Island.

As an artist, Emma is passionate about bringing awareness to important issues facing First
Nations people across Canada, including the loss of language and the staggering number of
missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls (MMIWG). In 2019, Emma recorded Paul
McCartney’s “Blackbird” in Mi’kmaq to help bring awareness to the United Nations’ observance
of the International Year of Indigenous Languages. Since its release, Steven’s version of
“Blackbird” has garnered international attention and has helped bring awareness to various
efforts being undertaken to revitalize endangered Indigenous languages around the world,
notably so in Steven’s own Mi’kma’ki where there are fewer than 10,000 speakers of the
Mi’kmaq language remaining. Stevens has performed across Canada and internationally with
performances in Nairobi, Kenya, Abu Dhabi, Parliament Hill in Ottawa and the UAE for United
Nations assemblies where she sang and spoke to leaders and policy-makers from around the
world.
On July 1st, 2021, Steven’s released “I Want to Rise”, a song written to help bring awareness to
the more than 4000 missing and murdered First Nations women and girls from across Canada
and the many thousands more MMIW in the United States of America, and, as well, to help
empower First Nations youth to rise above the many challenges they face being Indigenous
youth in Canada today.

Mark your calendars and RSVP to receive the livestreaming link!

Tax Talks: CRA Practices for the Community Impact Sector
2022-04-28 10:00 - 11:30
Join on April 28th the first of the Tax Talks series for the Community Impact Sector, hosted by the Canada Revenue Agency.

Tax Talks: CRA Practices for the Community Impact Sector
Join us virtually April 28th from 10 AM-11:30 AM
Learning Stream: Sustainable Operations

This is the first session of the Tax Talks series hosted with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), beginning this spring. The series will offer best practices to organizations with charitable and nonprofit status around tax compliance and considerations so that the sector is maximizing their tax returns.
Did you know that GST/HST rules for charities are different than those for nonprofit organizations? Do you wonder if you have missed claiming back all eligible GST/HST amounts? Would you like to learn how to avoid the most common GST/HST errors?
If so, you should attend this introductory presentation on the CRA’s GST/HST practices. You will hear directly from CRA’s GST/HST Headquarters representative, Michael Monk, who has over 30 years experience in GST/HST programs. The presentation will focus on important GST/HST obligations and entitlements. You will learn about rebates, input tax credits, taxable versus exempt supplies, PSB Rebate, and other important topics. We will review the most important rules and legislation to help you manage your GST/HST and maximize recoveries.

Learning Objectives:

Recognize key GST/HST differences between charities and NPOs
Know when to charge GST/HST
Understand Public Service Bodies’ (PSB) Rebate rules
Apply the correct rules for claiming credits
Identify and reduce common GST/HST mistakes

The Tax Talks Series
The series will pick up in the Fall of 2022-Winter 2023 with 4 additional offerings for the Community Impact Sector. Registration will be open later this year for the following:

Non-profit Organizations

Capital Real Property / Capital Personal Property & Input Tax Credit Rules

GST Audits & Examinations

Director Liability & Recordkeeping

Who Is this webinar For?
This presentation is intended for organizations with both charitable and nonprofit status. It is designed for Directors, staff and any other individuals who may be involved in the organization’s GST/HST. Even if you are not currently GST/HST registered, or you think that your entity is “too small”, you should still attend. If you would like a refresher, or to simply hear directly from CRA that you are “doing things right”, this Presentation is for you.

Speaker: Michael Monk
Michael Monk has been an employee of Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for more than 30 years. During that time he has worked extensively with GST/HST. Michael spent 10 years with GST/HST Rulings in the Legislative Policy and Regulatory Affairs Branch and several more years in Compliance Programs Branch. He has had several roles in CRA’s Headquarters (HQ), Regional and Tax Services Offices. Michael has also spent several years as a CRA Facilitator, teaching various GST/HST legislation courses to CRA staff.
Michael currently works in Headquarters, GST/HST Directorate, where he has managed CRA’s national GST/HST Outreach Program for the last 4 years. Michael has many years experience working with GST/HST issues in the public sectors. He has participated in several Conferences, preparing and delivering GST/HST presentations to accounting and industry associations.
Michael has volunteered with several community groups over the years, including serving on the Board of Directors for a large national charity and serving on CRA’s Employee Assistance Program.

ED Connections: Giving & Receiving Feedback
2022-04-27 09:00 - 10:30
Join us April 27 for the ED CONNECTIONS : Giving & Receiving Feedback for peer-to-peer learning and networking.

You’re invited to the Connections Peer-to-Peer Networking with EDs
Join us virtually April 27th, 9:00AM-10:30AM
Learning Stream: Healthy Workplaces
Holding spaces for collaboration and connection are core to our work at IONS. We’re hosting ED Connections (formerly called ED Networks) to help facilitate relationship development and peer-to-peer learning for senior leaders across the Community Impact Sector. This will be a space hosted for and by Executive Directors (or equivalents), to share what’s top of mind and have an opportunity for learning and personal reflection.

These monthly sessions are designed to encourage peer connections for sharing leadership experiences in a courageous space. Topics vary based on interest and are co-hosted by Annika Voltan (Executive Director, IONS) and other sector leaders. This month’s conversation topic is: Giving and Receiving Feedback. As leaders, how are we effectively supporting the growth of our team and listening and being receptive when we receive feedback? Join us virtually Wednesday, April 27 to share and learn from each other.
More details to come soon!

Who should attend this session?
This space is reserved for Executive Directors only (or the most senior person in the organization with alternate title such as General Manager, CEO etc.).
We hope you will join us in conversation!

Eggs & Kites: A Day to Celebrate Spring and Support Peace in Ukraine
2022-04-16 10:30 - 15:30 | The Deanery Project, 751 W Ship Harbour Rd NS, Ship Harbour, Nova Scotia, B0J 2L0, Canada
Saturday, April 16th
Morning Children’s Program $15/family,
Lunch $10/ adult, $5/child
Afternoon activities by donation (fundraiser)
Spring 2022 arrives filled with the hope of new beginnings and the sorrows of war. The days warm, and the birds return giving hope for a new year even as friends around the world struggle for freedom. In an attempt to hold both joys and grief we offer this spring gathering.
● Morning activities are child-focused, filled with egg decorating, an egg hunt, crafts, and games.
Note for families coming for the morning program: Please bring treats to share. “Deanery fairies” will hide them in the woods while the children decorate their eggs and play. At 11:30 Ollie the Owl will lead them on a collaborative treat hunt. Before heading home the treats will be shared out amoung all participating 🙂
● The afternoon is a time for people to come together to support Ukraine and Peace through art and kite building. We will build simple blue and yellow kites, and release their messages of peace together on the field.
SCHEDULE
10:30 -11:30 Children’s Programming
Egg decorating with natural dyes
Crafts (seed balls) and games
11:30 -12:00 Egg hunt!!
12:00 -1:30 Lunch – Borscht with Bread and Dessert
1:00 – 3:00 Ukrainian Peace solidarity events
Kite building
Collective art weaving project
Art demonstrations: stained glass and knitting projects
Silent auction fundraiser for Ukraine
3:00 Closing Circle for Ukraine Peace Solidarity
If you have any questions please email Charles Williams at haplo9@gmail.com
Registration:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfSqySFJCP7LYL30R3x7JkRCYGVUcgvd5PYA94gAPIsvdfcAQ/viewform

Exploring the 4-Day Work Week
2022-04-13 10:00 - 11:30
Join us April 13 for a session discussing research & emerging promising practices around implementing a 4-day work week across organizations

Exploring the 4-Day Work Week: Research & Protoyping
Join us virtually on April 13th, 10 am – 11:30am
Learning Stream: Systems Change & Innovation

It has been nearly 100 years since the 40-hour work week was popularized, and while society and technology have made great strides since then, the 9-5 has remained part of our culture. With the labour force shifting, the Great Resignation, and an increased focus on employee retention and work-life balance – people are challenging the 40-hour work week and adopting different ways of working.
This session will explore the needs of a post-pandemic workforce within the emerging reality of a job seekers market. With increasing competition for labour, employees are prioritizing organizational culture and work-life balance. More companies and organizations are piloting or fully adopting a 4-day work week and seeing great benefit. Success stories from Iceland, New Zealand and Spain – who have experimented with the 4-day work week – have shown that staff are experiencing a better work-life balance, increased productivity, and overall happiness in their work.
Many in the Community Impact Sector are looking for ways to experiment but lack the time to develop a pilot or implementation plan. In this session, we will share recent research and emerging “promising practices” for organizations at or near a point of readiness to be able to pitch or implement the 4-day work week.
The goal of this session is to share the concept of the 4-day work week, as well as shape an ongoing Learning Action Network of those leaders ready to implement; to learn together (challenges and successes) and collaborate on how to structure internal systems and policies.
*The 4-day work week is defined as working 32 hours per week and being paid 100% compensation.

Learning Objectives:

Understand the benefits and the challenges of the 4-day work week.
Understand the 4-day work week versus a compressed work week.
Learn from the success stories from countries and organizations around the world who have implemented this new way of working.
Develop a list of considerations such as the development of staff and board engagement process and an implementation plan (including building success measurement into your evaluation and implementation plan).

Who Is this webinar For?
This webinar is open to senior leaders in organizations who are at the point of readiness to experiment with the 4-day work week model in a co-learning environment.

Resources
In order for participants to be informed prior to this webinar, we suggest taking a few minutes with the following resources:

Will a Four-Day Work Week Come to Canada
CBC Halifax Interview on April 5, 2022
Short article: Four Day Work Week an Overwhelming Success in Iceland
Full report (long report but well laid out for reviewing with ease): Going Public: Iceland’s Journey to a Shorter Working Week

Meet the Speaker:

Erika Shea
Hailing from Western and Central Canada, for the last decade Erika Shea has called Cape Breton home.
Her role with New Dawn has allowed her to engage in the work of its various divisions and to meet the many bright and passionate people working to shift the course of Cape Breton Island. Prior to assuming her current role, President/CEO, as Vice President of Development, Erika with the teams responsible for bringing The Convent Centre for the Arts, and the Cape Breton Island Centre for Immigration to life.
New Dawn, incorporated in 1976, is the oldest Community Development Corporation in Canada. Its work in the community is guided by its mission – to engage the community to create and support a culture of self-reliance. In addition to her work with New Dawn, Erika has served as a Director with both local and provincial boards and committees including: ACAP Cape Breton, the Highland Arts Theatre, and the Social Enterprise Network of Nova Scotia.
Erika holds an MA in Canadian Studies from Carleton University and a BA in Political Science from Saint Mary’s University. She lives in Mira Gut with her partner Rob, children Frances and Charlie, and a handful of cats and chickens.
Shane MacSween
Joining Erika, is Human Resource Coordinator, Shane MacSween, also from New Dawn. Shane joined the team at New Dawn Enterprise in January 2022 as their first Human Resources Coordinator. Prior to joining the team at New Dawn, Shane had worked for 10+ years in the healthcare field as a recreation/wellness professional. Educated locally, Shane holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science and Certificate in Public Administration (International Studies) from CBU and an Advanced Diploma in Human Resources Management from NSCC Marconi Campus. Shane is also a Charted Professional in Human Resources Candidate wit CPHRNS and is looking forward to working to obtaining his full CPHR designation.

Additional Readings and Listening for those who really want to dig into the literature:

The Reinvention of Company Culture
The Evidence Is There: A Four-Day Work Week Just Makes Sense
Two Major Companies Announced Four-Day Workweeks – This May Be The Tipping Point for Businesses To Join The Growing Movement
How the pandemic has some Ontario employers switching to a 4-day work week
Alida, Toronto company, moves to 4-day work week

Bystander Intervention
2022-03-31 10:00 - 12:00
Join us March 31 for a session that will explore an action model that can be used to prevent or mitigate further harm in the workplace.

Bystander Intervention
Join us virtually on March 31st, 10AM-12:00PM
Learning Stream: Healthy Workplaces
While working with others, we are bound to encounter situations where a colleague or peer is being unfairly targeted, bullied or silenced. Bystander intervention is the act of recognizing a potentially harmful situation and playing an active role in prevention, harm reduction, advocation, and support of the person targeted. The ‘When, How, and Where’ we can intervene in a situation can be uncertain and tricky to navigate.
In this interactive and engaging workshop, we will explore the 5Ds of Bystander Intervention (Direct, Delegate, Delay, Distract, and Document), and scenario-based learning to practice how we can respond in the workplace both proactively and reactively using the 5Ds model. This 2 hour session is a combination of content sharing, interactive breakout sessions, and group discussions.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

Explore the range of possibilities of proactive and responsive measures based on the 5Ds of Bystander Intervention.
Reflect and explore what a personal intervention strategy can look like based on the action model and your individual context.
Create the space to discuss and share strategies that have worked in the past and participate in shared learning with the group.

Who Is this webinar For?
This webinar is open to anyone who wants to learn how to intervene and respond in situations when witnessing harm in the workplace.

Speaker: Corrie Melanson
Corrie Melanson is a learning designer and inclusion advocate based in Kjipuktuk, Halifax. She works with a diverse and nimble team to help leaders and change makers ignite transformational learning and impact by shifting from passive to active learning, from problem-focus to possibility, and by connecting personal, organizational, and systemic change.

Interested? Here’s how to register:

Click “Register”
Select the ticket for the session and then select “Register”
Fill out the registration form.
You will receive a confirmation email with the meeting details once you complete your registration.

ED Connections - Failing Forward
2022-03-30 09:00 - 10:30
This session explores how we can build the culture of failing forward to support innovation, learning, and organizational capacity.

You’re invited to the Connections Peer-to-Peer Networking with EDs
Join us virtually March 30th, 9:00AM-10:30AM
Learning Stream: Healthy Workplaces

Holding spaces for collaboration and connection are core to our work at CSCNS. We’re hosting ED Connections (formerly called ED Networks) to help facilitate relationship development and peer-to-peer learning for senior leaders across the Community Impact Sector. This will be a space hosted for and by Executive Directors (or equivalents), to share what’s top of mind and have an opportunity for learning and personal reflection.
There are two major sides of the coin that should be considered for the Community Impact Sector when it comes to ‘Failing Forward.’ The first is about one’s ability to learn the lessons and confidently move forward when a threat or failure causes a setback. These moments of evaluation and re-strategizing lead to pivotal progress in an organization. The other side requires that one exists within an organization where they are given the allowance to go through the continuum of learning from failures and provided dignity, resources, and supports. This session explores how we can build the culture of failing forward as part of our project planning to support innovation, learning, and organizational capacity.
Lydia Phillip and Emma Beukema co-authored an insightful article, and CSCNS’s Top Blog of 2021, titled “Take Flight: Embracing a Culture of Failing Forward” that provides a reflection and reference point for this session.

Learning Objectives:

Learn and explore what embracing a culture of “Failing Forward” looks like in an organization.
Reflect and share how failure has impacted your growth and development as a leader.
Create an ethical space to have collective learning and sharing of information and ideas around pivoting from failure.
Reduce feelings of overwhelm and isolation by providing space for deepening of connections and trust.

Who should attend this session?
This space is reserved for Executive Directors only (or the most senior person in the organization with alternate title such as General Manager, CEO etc. )

We hope you will join us in conversation!

Unconscious Bias with Ann Divine
2022-03-23 09:30 - 12:30
Join us March 23 as Ann Divine breaks down what unconscious bias is, where it originates, and strategies around mitigating bias.

Unconscious Bias with Ann Divine
Join us virtually on March 23rd, 9:30 AM-12:00 PM
Learning Stream: Healthy Workplaces

Bias affects all aspects of our everyday experiences because our brains are constantly collecting and filtering complex information in order to make shortcuts. These hardwired shortcuts can create assumptions and knee-jerk reactions in the moment, which can be a result of unconscious bias – and the workplace is no exception to these biases. Ann Divine, CEO and Founder of Ashanti Leadership & Development Services and renowned expert on Unconscious Bias, will facilitate this highly engaging, interactive session.
This 2.5hr session will explore how to combat these biases and how to implement the learnings and strategies through a combination of content sharing and interactive discussions. Participants will be challenged to be aware of their own unconscious biases, where it stems from, and how it effects our everyday decision making, especially in the workplace.

Learning Objectives:

Learn what unconscious bias is and how it shows up in our daily interactions and activities.
Reflect on the origins of unconscious bias and how it effects our decision making, specifically in the workplace.
Create a space to explore and discuss how to implement learnings to mitigate biases in the workplace.

Who Is this webinar For?
This webinar is open to anyone who wants to understand their unconscious bias and learn how to mitigate it.

Meet the Speaker: Ann Divine
Ann Divine, CEO and founder of Ashanti Leadership and Development Services Inc., and co-founder of Ashanti Leadership Academy.
Her education includes a Master’s in Human Resource Management, Bachelors in Sociology and Leadership Development from London, UK. As well as other relevant qualifications in the field of human rights, coaching and change management.
She is an accomplished businesswoman, known and respected for her professionalism and willingness to support, coach and mentor others. Her business provides extensive career and professional guidance in organizational change and social justice issues.
Ann’s work is underpinned by her knowledge, skills, and expertise in human rights and people management. Her unique style combined with adult education principles has brought her recognition in her fields of leadership development, change management, coaching and mentoring, facilitation, diversity and inclusion, women in leadership and unconscious bias training. These elements are critical factors which impacts team performances in the physical and virtual workspace.
Ann’s work expands to all levels of government, organizations, businesses, institutions and communities at national and international platforms. She is also a sought-after public speaker.
Ann’s work supports the business environment, government, public and private sectors and their employees bring their best self to work. Ann is also an advocate for those who are deemed invisible and do not have a voice at the decision-making table, and she strives to bring inclusivity to every aspect of her work. She sits on several boards at national and provincial levels. Ann has been recognized and acknowledged through various awards for her work.

Interested? Here’s how to register:

Click “Register”
Select the ticket for the session and then select “Register”
Fill out the registration form.
You will receive a confirmation email with the meeting details once you complete your registration.

Cyber Safety in a Virtual Work World
2022-03-02 10:00 - 11:30
Join us March 2nd for a workshop on the growing scope of cyber crime and how it can be avoided as we navigate virtual and hybrid work.

Cyber Safety in a Virtual Work World
Join us virtually on March 2nd, 10 AM-11:30 AM
Learning Stream: Sustainable Operations

With the shift to remote and hybrid work, we are now online more navigating virtual teams and tools. In a world where technology is ever-evolving, cyber criminals are equipped with improved and more readily available tools and are stepping up their scams. The Community Impact (Nonprofit) Sector is a growing target of digital attacks looking to secure information, data, and money. Organizations and their staff need to invest in appropriate strategies to stay clear of cyber-crime. This session provides insight into online threats and potential damages. Darren Gallop, CEO of Carbide (formerly Securicy), will discuss how to assess the risks and share strategies around risk mitigation through controls, policies, training, monitoring, and software. Learn how to stay safe online while continuing to work in service of your communities!

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

Gain awareness of the growing presence and scope of cyber-crime.
Learn how to spot the key indicators of an attempt at cyber-crime.
Learn strategies for protecting organization from cyber criminals as we continue to navigate aspects of virtual work.

Who Is this webinar For?
This webinar is open to anyone who wants to increase their knowledge on cyber security like members of an organization responsible for data security and risk management (i.e. Board Members, Executive Directors, Managers, staff in Operations, etc.).

Speaker: Darren Gallop
Darren Gallop is a tech entrepreneur, information security expert, Techstars alumni, board member, and the CEO of Securicy. He co-founded Securicy and led the team to develop a SaaS product that guides businesses through creating, implementing, and managing their information security and privacy compliance program. Gallop previously co-founded Marcato and was CEO there for 10 years, until the successful event management software company was acquired by Patron Technology. Gallop spends much of his non-work time playing music, fly fishing, canoeing, and gardening. He is from Nova Scotia, Canada.

Interested? Here’s how to register:

Click “Register”
Select the ticket for the session and then select “Register”
Fill out the registration form.
You will receive a confirmation email with the meeting details once you complete your registration.
