88.8 Economic Recognition of Volunteerism
Whereas the participation of the volunteer sector is essential to a healthy, pluralistic society, in initiating new ideas, planning, and providing services, fundraising, and decision-making; and
Whereas volunteer participation develops and utilizes knowledge, experience, and skills which otherwise might be lost to the Canadian economy; and
Whereas volunteer participation involves personal expenditures which could limit participation; and
Whereas some volunteers do not have access to private or Canada Pension Plan Benefits nor excess earned income to contribute to an RRSP; therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That The National Council of Women of Canada request the Government of Canada:
- To initiate a policy which would permit volunteers to earn credits for the Canada Pension Plan and RRSP contributions; and
- To re-iterate its existing policy (1978) requesting the Government of Canada to allow substantial out-of-pocket expenses (e.g., daycare/child care, transportation, meals) for taxpayers or dependents involved in providing voluntary service to voluntary organizations to be an allowable tax credit as a charitable contribution for tax purposes and the criteria for registration for income tax purposes be broadened.