Non-profits want to work with people, not tell them what to do – but how does that work in practice?

Social research and development, like R&D in any sector, brings new tools and strategies that can improve people’s lives. As COVID-19 completely disrupts business as usual, there may never be a more important time to reimagine how they work.

Good design makes digital programming better — here are four key tips from digital-first non-profits

COVID-19 has sent much of the social impact world online, forcing non-profits to quickly adapt to a remote reality. But in a sector in which few have the resources to innovate with technology, how can social impact organizations improve how they work online, and find new ways of helping the people they serve?

Beyond donations: How two Canadian organizations are rebuilding community wealth post-COVID

Since COVID-19 first hit Canada in March 2020, the gap between the rich and poor has grown wider in communities, with nearly 40 percent of Canadians reporting deteriorating finances over the last year. The organizations that typically help them, however, are also suffering, with more than two-thirds of Canadian charities reporting an average 30 percent revenue drop, over the last year. To rebuild after the pandemic, organizations will need to experiment with innovative new ways to mobilize social finance and build community wealth.

This organization’s ‘connected community approach’ is changing how social services are designed

COVID-19 has forced many organizations that focus on community well-being to reimagine how they provide essential services. Strengthening community resilience and well-being using innovative social R&D methods is how social service organizations are moving forward post pandemic.

This Indigenous, youth-led organization is strengthening its community using Anishinaabe philosophy

A strong sense of belonging builds community resilience, which has been vital during COVID-19. This is especially true for Indigenous communities, facing already-existing inequalities that have been exacerbated by the pandemic. As organizations move towards recovery and look to improve their services, they must centre inclusion — something that is integral to Anishinaabe thought and philosophy.