Non-profits among the worst offenders for unlivable wages in Canada, say employees, experts

“There needs to be a shift in how the public sees non-profit work. This is a skilled workforce that is chronically underpaid.”

Why It Matters

Non-profit wages are consistently lower than those in the private sector, putting financial strain on employees who often leave social purpose work behind in search of better pay. Competitive wages could improve staff retention and wellbeing.

Shannon is a multimedia journalist in Treaty One Territory who first joined Future of Good as a news and features reporter, covering issues ranging from policing alternatives and the impact of inflation on international development to Indigenous fundraising and reconciliation. She has since transitioned through a variety of roles and is currently Future of Good’s editorial fellow on inclusion and anti-racism in the social impact world. Her work has also appeared in Maclean’s Magazine, The Globe and Mail, The Washington Post, Toronto Star, The Independent and Metro Winnipeg, as well as the Manitoba Co-operator, Country-Guide and the Western Producer.

This independent journalism is made possible by the Future of Good editorial fellowship covering inclusion and anti-racism in the social impact world, supported by the World Education Services (WES) Mariam Assefa Fund. Read our editorial ethics and standards here.