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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 30, 2025

VICTORIA, B.C. – Join us in celebrating the third annual BC Non-Profit Recognition Day!

B.C. Non-Profit Recognition Day, first proclaimed by the Province in 2023, highlights the sector’s significant contribution to the social and economic fabric of our province. It celebrates resilient workers and frontline champions who make an enormous difference with their time, talent, imagination, and skills, and who are passionate about building strong, connected communities.

The non-profit sector supports all facets of life, from housing and poverty reduction to the arts, the environment, childcare and much more. The sector motivates people dedicated to careers that advance social change. Its grassroots proximity to the community uniquely positions the sector to respond quickly to local and community needs.

B.C. Non-Profit Recognition Day also recognizes the ongoing need for support and partnerships to help these organizations respond to increased service pressures during uncertain times.

This announcement comes on the heels of the new 2025 State of BC’s Non-profit Sector survey report called “Stretched Thin”, conducted by Vantage Point and the BC Non-Profit Network.

More than 500 non-profit leaders across B.C. shared their perspectives, leading to four key findings about non-profits across the province:

• Facing more severe community challenges, and a greater demand for programs, services and activities.
• Working through tight financial times, with flat revenues and increasing costs.
• Prioritizing staff retention and support, as people are at the heart of community impact.
• Investing in fund development, planning, and governance to adapt under pressure.

Currently, B.C.’s non-profit sector represents 377,000 jobs and employs a diverse workforce that is 69% female, 34% immigrants, 5% Indigenous, and 37% visible minorities. In 2023, the sector contributed $31.8 billion to our province’s GDP, underscoring that non-profits are essential to B.C.'s health and vitality.

Despite these challenges, the sector continues to persevere.

This B.C. Non-Profit Day, we’re recognizing that many organizations are finding ways to adapt, strengthen operations, and support the communities they serve. Now is the time to help keep our province’s safety net robust for years to come by recognizing non-profits that save lives and keep our communities healthy, more inclusive and connected.

To learn more about B.C. Non-Profit Recognition Day, visit www.bcnonprofitday.ca.

QUOTES:

“People in B.C. are feeling the pressure of increased cost of living, climate emergencies and the uncertainty of U.S. tariffs, and many rely on community programs and non-profits for vital support. Through it all, non-profits continue to deliver critical services, strengthen communities and support people across the province.  On B.C. Non-Profit Recognition Day, we celebrate the thousands of non-profits helping build a stronger, more connected B.C. Thank you for the incredible work you do every day.”

• Parliamentary Secretary for Community Engagement and Non-profits Amshen – Joan Phillip

“BC Non-Profit Recognition Day reminds us that the work of non-profits is not peripheral—it’s essential. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the people and organizations who dedicate their energy to creating stronger, healthier, and more connected communities. This vital work doesn’t happen by accident. It’s made possible by the passion, commitment, and collaboration of people who believe in something larger than themselves, working toward a common good. Today, we honour the vision, leadership, and dedication of those working across the non-profit sector—their work is a testament to what’s possible when we invest in people, purpose, and collective progress.”

• Zahra Esmail, CEO of Vantage Point

“As non-profit charities embedded in communities across the province, the YMCAs of BC see firsthand how our sector is vital in supporting people where needs are growing and systems are stretched. Together, non-profits help foster healthier, more resilient communities—powering BC’s social and economic wellbeing.”

• Heidi Worthington, CEO of YMCA BC (on behalf of the YMCAs of BC)

"We appreciate the Province of BC's proclamation of BC Non-Profit Day, recognizing the vital role our sector plays. As a modern charity, United Way BC is proud to collaborate across and with communities to drive innovative, local solutions. The strength of BC’s non-profits lies in their grassroots impact and unwavering commitment to community wellbeing."

• Michael McKnight, President & CEO, United Way British Columbia

“No matter where you live or what your circumstances may be, non-profits touch the lives of every British Columbian, whether in obvious or more subtle ways. That’s why Vancouver Foundation is proud to celebrate BC Non-Profit Day, to take this moment to reflect on how non-profits care for us and stitch the fabric of our communities together.”

• Kate Hammer, Acting CEO, Vancouver Foundation

“More than ever, charitable organizations are essential to delivering vital services to communities throughout the province. BC Non-Profit Recognition Day comes at an important time, emphasizing the need for a sustainable sector that makes our communities thrive during unpredictable times. Thank you to all the staff, volunteers, and supporters who are making a lasting impact.”

• Sandra Richardson, CEO, Victoria Foundation

“At YWCA Metro Vancouver, our commitment to gender equity gives us a clear view of the vital role the non-profit sector plays in supporting the health and well-being of our communities. Every day, we see how these organizations help women and gender-diverse people build stability and opportunity, while also employing thousands of women whose leadership and contributions strengthen our province. On BC Non-Profit Recognition Day, we celebrate the compassion, dedication and innovation that drive this sector and help create a more just, inclusive and equitable British Columbia.”

• Erin Seeley, CEO, YWCA Metro Vancouver

“B.C.’s 31,000 nonprofits strengthen every part of community life—from housing and health to education, the environment, arts and recreation. This sector delivers essential services and meets growing demands to keep our province running. On BC Non-Profit Recognition Day, the Pemberton Valley Trails Association (PVTA) celebrates the ecosystem of nonprofits we’re a part of—one that links people, places and possibilities across B.C.”

• Kailey Morin, Steering Committee Member of the BC Nonprofit Network, Vice President of the PVTA.

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Media Contact:
Adam van der Zwan
Senior Communications Officer
The Victoria Foundation
P: 778-972-0742
E: avanderzwan@victoriafoundation.bc.ca

The Victoria Foundation is acting as the main media contact on behalf of the partners in the initiative. Please let us know if you wish to speak to someone who covers your region or area, or a specific topic and we’d be happy to connect you with the most appropriate contact. Note availability will vary as members of the team are meeting with representatives from the Government of BC on October 30.