Action Alert: Final call for input on Community Spirit Program

Alberta Ecotrust Foundation

Call to Action: Let's Promote the 'Environmental Priority' in this Process

Alberta Community Spirit Program Media Release

July 17, 2007

Final call for input on Community Spirit Program

Edmonton... If you want to give your input on the government's proposed Community Spirit Program but haven't had the chance to do so yet - there is still time. However, the July 31 deadline to submit a questionnaire is quickly approaching.

The questionnaire is available online at www.communityspiritprogram.ca, local MLA constituency offices, public libraries or by mail (call 310-4455 for more information).

Albertans are already among the most giving and charitable people in Canada. Information gathered from the consultation will assist the MLA committee charged with making recommendations for parameters of the proposed Community Spirit Program to ensure that it operates effectively and is sustainable. The committee's final report is due this fall to the Minister of Tourism, Parks, Recreation and Culture.

The Community Spirit Program has two components: the first is supporting increases in private charitable donations through tax credits; the second is establishing a Community Spirit Fund to provide matching grants for eligible philanthropic donations to Alberta-based registered charities.

The Alberta government has already increased the charitable tax credit for eligible annual donations above $200 by 60 per cent this year. Including the federal credit, Albertans will now receive a 50-cent tax credit for every dollar donated over the $200 threshold. This enhanced charitable tax credit complements the work of the MLA committee.

Developing a Community Spirit Program is one of the key actions under Premier Ed Stelmach's plan to improve Albertans' quality of life. Other priorities for the government are to govern with integrity and transparency, build a stronger Alberta, manage growth pressures and provide safe and secure communities.

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Media enquiries may be directed to:

Beryl Cullum, Communications
Alberta Tourism, Parks, Recreation and Culture
(780) 427-6530

Gord Graydon
Chair, MLA Committee
(780) 415-9562

To call toll free within Alberta dial 310-0000.


...because it's our home.

Pat Letizia
Executive Director
Alberta Ecotrust Foundation