26 nonprofits join Imagine Canada’s network of accredited organizations

Accredited organizations lead the way in transparency and governance excellence

Toronto, March 18, 2025 — Imagine Canada, the umbrella organization for the nonprofit and charitable sector, is proud to introduce the latest cohort of newly accredited and reaccredited organizations under the Imagine Canada Standards. These organizations join a network of charities and nonprofits dedicated to enhancing and maintaining excellence in governance and operational practices in five key areas: board governance, financial accountability and transparency, fundraising, human resources, and volunteer engagement. 

In an era where nonprofits face continued challenges—from economic pressures to heightened demand for services—pursuing accreditation is a testament to long-term vision and capacity building. Accreditation shows that an organization adheres to the highest levels of transparency and efficiency, ensuring that it is better equipped to face challenges and deliver on its mission. The Standards Trustmark, a sought after symbol of excellence, signals to donors, funders, employees and volunteers that their goodwill is in good hands.

We applaud the following newly accredited organizations for their achievement:

• Access Community Services
• Blue Door Support Services
• Canadian Mental Health Association - Nova Scotia Division
• Central Alberta FASD Network
• Harvest Manitoba
• Make-A-Wish^® Canada
• Northwest Central Alberta FASD Services Network Society (Willow Winds Support Network)
• Souls Harbour Rescue Mission

We also congratulate the following organizations on their reaccreditation, reinforcing their ongoing commitment to accountability and performance:

• Arthritis Society Canada
• Autism Canada
• Bravestone Centre
• Canadian Feed The Children
• FearIsNotLove
• Fondation de l'Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières
• Jane Goodall Institute of Canada
• Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation
• Kids Help Phone
• Knowledge Network
• Lake Simcoe Conservation Foundation
• Lung Health Foundation
• Plan International Canada
• Seva Canada
• The Cridge Center for the Family
• United Way Halton and Hamilton
• World Vision Canada
• YMCA Calgary

“In our rapidly changing world, accreditation has become an essential tool for nonprofits and charities to navigate evolving environments, strengthen governance, and maximize impact,” says Bruce MacDonald, President & CEO of Imagine Canada. By achieving the Standards accreditation, these organizations have demonstrated exceptional leadership. Their unwavering commitment to prioritizing transparency, good governance, and operational excellence not only reinforces public trust but also creates a solid foundation for their organization’s future. The growing network of over 280 accredited organizations across the country contributes to shaping a strong and resilient nonprofit and charitable sector dedicated to serving communities.”

Organizations from coast to coast, big and small, and devoted to a diverse range of worthy causes, have demonstrated leadership and commitment to continuous improvement by achieving accreditation. For the complete list of accredited organizations, please click here. 

Our heartfelt congratulations to all accredited organizations and a special thank you to our dedicated independent peer reviewers for their outstanding contributions to this important work.

About the Standards

Since 2012, Imagine Canada’s Standards have served as the only comprehensive set of guidelines for nonprofits and charities developed by and for the nonprofit sector in key areas of governance and operations. The Standards serve as a benchmark for excellence in governance, operational strength, and organizational resilience. They enhance public trust, foster best practices, and support long-term sustainability by ensuring transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement. 

The accreditation process is adaptable for organizations of all sizes and missions so that nonprofits and charities can pursue accreditation at a level aligned with their needs. Organizations are accredited through a rigorous peer-review process by independent sector representatives. Oversight of the Standards is ensured by the Standards Council, an independent group of sector representatives responsible for maintaining and evolving the Standards.

Organizations participating in the Standards have access to a wide range of resources at every stage of the process, including a self-assessment tool, counsel from peer advisors of accredited organizations, support from our team throughout the process, and online resources to strengthen practices. The peer reviewers’ evaluations of policies and practices, along with constructive feedback, contribute to elevating accountability, transparency, and sound governance practices across Canadian charities and nonprofits.

Acknowledgements

The Standards accreditation is made possible through the generous financial support of our founding and presenting partner, Canada Life.

ABOUT IMAGINE CANADA 

Imagine Canada is a national, bilingual charitable organization whose cause is Canada’s charities and nonprofits. Through our advocacy efforts, research and social enterprises, we help strengthen charities, nonprofits and social entrepreneurs so they can better fulfill their missions. Our vision is of a strong Canada where charities work together alongside business and government to build resilient and vibrant communities.

To learn more, visit our website, follow us on LinkedIn.

For media inquiries, contact:

Cristina Andoni
Manager, Accreditation, Communications & Partnerships
Imagine Canada
candoni@imaginecanada.ca