Some work is done exclusively in Canada, and some outside of Canada.

It is important that religious charities are aware of the rules for registered charities.  In addition to being aware, religious charities need to understand the rules and have systems in place to ensure compliance for their organization.

Failure to comply with the rules can result in various consequences, including penalties, suspensions and revocation.  In addition, directors and senior staff can become ineligible individuals, and there can be potential reputational issues for those involved and, indirectly, their own communities.  Donors donating to such charities could also face additional scrutiny, including but not limited to having their donation receipts invalidated by CRA.

Religious charities are not only small volunteer community groups but also larger organizations that, in some cases, receive significant support from government and secular sources.   Religious charities have a huge impact on Canadian society, and therefore, their compliance and sustainability are important.

The regulatory environment has become more complicated over the years, including new “directed donation” rules.   This presentation by charity lawyer Mark Blumberg, Amanda Werger and Jenna Martin provides plain language information and resources about the compliance obligations of Canadian religious charities.

Blumbergs will also provide participants with a checklist of top compliance concerns with links to resources that provide further information.

 

Mark Blumberg, Amanda Werger and Jenna Martin are charity lawyers based in Toronto with Blumbergs Professional Corporation.   Blumbergs focuses on legal, compliance and other issues relating to non-profits, registered charities and philanthropy, in Canada and abroad.  Blumbergs publishes a blog www.CanadianCharityLaw.ca, and has created the largest portal of data on the Canadian charity sector, www.CharityData.ca