A message from Bernard Richard, Chair, Plan Canada Board of Directors
Since joining the board in 2007, I’ve been impressed by the time and effort Plan Canada has committed to earning a place among the best-in-class organizations in the not-for-profit sector when it comes to good governance and transparency.
The board plays a critical role in protecting the interests of all stakeholders and ensuring careful stewardship of resources. We are accountable to ensure that the people who so generously provide funds – our donors and partners – receive the return on investment they seek: social justice and improved lives for children in developing countries. We will strive to continually improve our ability to deliver that return and hold ourselves to a high standard of governance. Please take a moment to read the in-depth information provided below to better understand Plan’s commitment to accountability.
Sincerely,
Bernard Richard
Chair of the Board
Accountability
Plan is committed to making lasting improvements to the lives of children living in poverty in developing countries. Each year we go through a process to set out strategic priorities in Canada that complement the goals of the global organization.
We recognise our duty to be as effective and efficient as possible and to be accountable to all our stakeholders.
To this end, we publish the key rules and policies governing our work:
Plan has been named one of the top performers in the One World Trust annual global accountability report.
Transparency
Charity Intelligence Canda
In keeping with our commitment to transparency and accountability, Plan Canada makes our financial overview publically available through this independent research firm that aims to help donors make informed and intelligent giving decisions that can have the greatest impact for Canada.
Staff compensation
In keeping with our commitment to transparency and accountability, Plan Canada makes information publically available on our compensation approach and policies. Key documents are posted here for our donors, stakeholders and the public to freely access.
Adherence to standards
Association of Fundraising Professionals
Plan Canada supports the Association of Fundraising Professionals' Donor Bill of Rights.
ICFO international standards
The management and operations of Plan’s central organisation have been independently assessed by the International Committee on Fundraising Organisations (ICFO) and found to be in compliance with ICFO standards.
ICVA
Plan is a member of the International Council of Voluntary Agencies (ICVA) - a global network that brings together human rights, humanitarian, and development non-governmental organisations as an advocacy alliance for humanitarian action.
Imagine Canada
Plan Canada adheres to the financial management and reporting standards for charitable organizations set out in Imagine Canada’s Ethical Fundraising and Accountability Code.
INGO accountability charter
Plan is a signatory of the International Non-Governmental Organisations Commitment to Accountability (INGO) charter, which outlines our common commitment to excellence, transparency and accountability.
People in Aid
Plan is a member of People in Aid – a global network of development and humanitarian assistance agencies which promotes good practice in the management and support of aid personnel.
Sphere Project
Plan adheres to the Sphere Project’s Humanitarian Charter and Minimum Standards in Disaster Response.
Plan has consultative status with UNICEF (United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund) and UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation).
Third-party fundraisers
Plan Canada uses third-party fundraisers as a flexible and cost-effective way to attract new donors to the organization. This is done through direct contact with the public, specifically door-to-door, street and mall canvassing, as well as telemarketing. Our volunteer board of directors, as well as our management team, are focused on ensuring our fundraising costs sit well within the range recommended by the Canada Revenue Agency and our practices are consistent with Imagine Canada’s Ethical Code. (For more information on third-party fundraisers, visit Imagine Canada.)