For most of us across the sector, 2020 was a year that required adaptation, perseverance, and somehow balancing daily urgencies and mission-critical work.    

ABNN was no different. While only in our second year as a network, ABNN and its partners found themselves responding to the critical needs of the sector, while also working to move our core priority areas forward.

Here are some of the highlights:

1. Data Strategy

• Conducted and shared 3 Sector Surveys, providing the sector and partners with information about the realities facing nonprofits during COVID-19.
• Completed Phase I of an Alberta Data Strategy, creating eight projects concepts that support data use and communication in Alberta. Phase II will commence in 2021.

2. Sector Value & Impact

• Hosted a Sector-wide Response to Recovery Gathering, discussing sector challenges and how we move forward together.
• Created a Sector Value & Impact Handbook that articulates the sector’s value and impact to Alberta. We anticipate releasing this next year.
• Developed an Alberta Nonprofit Roadshow Presentation, an opportunity for nonprofits to have ABNN present at their events and discuss subsector challenges and opportunities.

3.  Workforce Development

• Expanded Volunteer Connector to support volunteering during COVID-19.  
• Created various covid-related employer resources, including Recovery Pathways Check List, Employer Resource Toolkit, Volunteer Guidance and OH&S Toolkits. 
• Connected Edmonton charitable organizations and employers through the COVID-19 Skill-sharing and Volunteering Initiative.

4. Government Relations

• Conducted Advocacy Campaigns, including advocating for funding increases and flexibility, AGM modifications, insurance adjustments, and health & safety support.
• Engaged with government to share the impact of COVID-19 on the sector through survey data and conversations with government representatives.
• Worked with other sector partners, including the Premier’s Council, Alberta Health Services, the business community and national nonprofits.
• Conducted an analysis of the Alberta Government's Provincial Budget.

What's in store for 2021?

ABNN is focused on continuing to amplify the voices of the Alberta nonprofit sector, especially in the critical areas you’ve told us matter most right now - mental health, diversity, equity & inclusion, and financial sustainability. The data from our latest survey will help prioritize ABNN efforts for 2021, while ongoing engagement with you - the sector - will be a key in supporting transformative change.

Alberta's nonprofit sector is critical to the social and economic recovery of our communities. ABNN endeavours to empower collective action to address systemic challenges for our sector and strengthen our foundations for tomorrow. Thank you for inspiring our efforts and fueling our action!