An Accord between the Government of Canada and the Voluntary Sector

Signed in December 2001, An Accord Between the Government of Canada and the Voluntary Sector is a framework document that sets out the values, principles, and commitments that will guide this relationship. The Accord represents a public commitment to more open, transparent, consistent, and collaborative ways for the voluntary sector and the Government of Canada to work together.

After the Accord was signed, two Codes of Good Practice were developed as tangible, concrete tools for both the government and the voluntary sector. A Code of Good Practice on Policy Dialogue encourages voluntary sector participation in the public policy process. A Code of Good Practice on Funding guides the funding aspect of the relationship between the voluntary sector and the Government of Canada and reinforces their respective accountabilities.

The Charities Directorate is committed to respecting the Accord and its related Codes of Good Practice. These tools will help strengthen the ability of the charitable sector, the Charities Directorate, and the CRA to better serve Canadians and will ensure a more effective regulator-client relationship.

To find out more about the Accord and Codes of Good Practice, please visit the Voluntary Sector Initiative Web site.