Katherine Lacefield (Macdonald)

A few weeks ago, I was fortunate to travel to Hollyhock on Cortes Island, BC and join the Future of Labs gathering convened by Action Lab and Social Innovation Canada. Collaborating with lab practitioners and enablers from across Canada and around the world we explored questions related to the value proposition and niche of Labs. I was left mulling over the essence of Social Innovation Labs. My takeaways includes the following clumsy attempt to come up with a definition that holds the spirit of two-days worth of free-range conversations. "Social Innovation Labs facilitate relational processes that weave together participants with diverse experiences and perspectives to understand, develop, and test options to address complex societal challenges and dilemmas that are systemic in nature." ▶︎“Relational” implies a process that harnesses the power of human relationships to make sense of phenomena in the world and to affect change. ▶︎The notion of “weaving” implies the creation of new patterns and connections between people, ideas, and flows of energy and resources. ▶︎“Options” implies the notion of alternatives or multiple pathways to affect change. ▶︎“Address” suggests the active engagement with a challenge, while also inviting the the possibility of reframing challenges as opportunities. This could entail attempts to understand, heal or transform broken systems. ▶︎“Dilemmas” imply challenges which require engaging with paradoxes and where innovation often requires holding ideas or interests that might appear to be in opposition. It also recognizes that many phenomena contain dualities: light/dark, feminine/masculine, individual/collective, etc. ▶︎“Systemic” suggests scenarios or phenomena where complex factors are interacting in dynamic and often unpredictable ways. Many thanks to Anthony Bourque, Ben Weinlick, Diane Roussin BA, BSW, M.S.M. 🦦., Geraldine Cahill, Mark Cabaj, Patrick Dubé, Darcy Riddell, Andrea Nemtin (M.S.M.), Timothy Draimin, and the rest of the convening team for such a reflective and relevant event! More (coherent) insights can be found in the Primer Report and podcasts from the Future of Labs gathering (https://lnkd.in/ghXKF9US).

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💡 Act early for our children's health! 🌱 In 2017, according to the Institut de la statistique du Québec, 27.7% of children were considered vulnerable in at least one of the five developmental domains. This figure unfortunately climbed to 28.7% in 2022. It was in this context that Akinox collaborated with the Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux du Québec (MSSS) to develop Agir tôt (Childhood screening program). Thanks to this initiative, it is now easier and faster to detect learning disabilities in children aged 0 to 5. Want to find out more about Agir tôt and the results achieved with this innovative digital solution? ➡️ Download our case study: https://lnkd.in/en8DCV7C Thanks to Geneviève Pilon MBA, PMP, SAFe for her precious help, to the CHU Sainte-Justine and to the CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal #Innovation #DigitalHealth #eHealthQuebec #HealthTechnology #HealthInnovation #DigitalTransformation #ConnectedHealth #QuebecInnovation #Telemedicine #eHealthQuébec #DigitalHealth

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Just to say, I have posted my 6th blog about the path of evolution for the charity sector. This one is about the top 3 most important strategic changes for the Canadian Charity Sector. - Do you agree with them? - See below. https://www.giv3.ca/blog Typically, it is the role of the CEO of a company to determine the strategic direction and to identify the top 3 priorities which must be accomplished in the year. And then, most importantly, the CEO must focus their energy on helping the company achieve these three things without getting bogged down in the day-to-day operational challenges, staffing problems, client issues, finance, and so on.  If the company makes significant strides on the three chosen priorities, then the year has been useful. In a sense, this is about focus and simplifying the essence of what needs to be accomplished... "The ability to simplify means to eliminate the unnecessary so that the necessary may speak.” - - Hans Hofmann, abstract artist. With so many millions of Canadians in need, and a collapsing environment, what is necessary?  If we had a sector CEO and a sector strategic plan, I propose that the three most important initiatives to advance for the sector should be:  (1) Encourage greater generosity (in all forms). That is, bring in more resources (2) More staff in the sector to deliver charitable services. (3) improve efficiency in how charities perform. (I recognize that another key strategic issue would to reduce demand for charitable services, but I feel this is beyond the power of the charity sector. Reducing demands is on the shoulders of politicians via changes in labour codes, environmental laws, immigration policies, investment in productivity gains, better health care, and so on). And if there is any doubt, other important things like D.E.I., better data measurement, clarification of legal definitions of charity, better governance, trust, and so on, are secondary. To put this frankly, the homeless person living on the street is not co concerned about the governance, representation, measurement, and operations of the charity helping them to survive each day. They just need results. Please do not get me wrong. I recognize and appreciate the good work which many organizations are doing for these secondary initiatives. They are important. It is just that these are not the most important strategic priorities. It often feels to me our sector is prioritizing these secondary things while we are not doing enough for the biggest strategic issue: A growing charity gap. - I am not so sure we are “eliminating the unnecessary so that the necessary may speak”. In my search for a ‘sector strategic plan’, I concluded that we do not have one! And when I asked those who might know, they confirmed it. We need to develop a strategic plan to address the growing charity gap in Canada, and to optimize and guide our priorities. I will talk more about a sector strategic plan soon.

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Interested in how social media has manipulated the climate conversation in Canada? You should check out our newest report (co-authored by yours truly!) on the state and spread of climate misinformation during the last wildfire season. Key findings: ➡️Online conversations began in May and surged in June 2023, with right-wing and anti-establishment groups posting and reposting content claiming that arsonists, not climate change, were responsible for the fires. ➡️Over time, the claims became more conspiratorial, insinuating that left-wing extremists and the Canadian government were responsible for starting the fires. ➡️Disinformation ecosystems that formed during the COVID pandemic, originally intended to attack public health policy, have spread to include climate and energy policy. ➡️Networks are growing throughout Canada that aim to mobilize farmers against climate policy. Fortunately, these efforts have yet to gain large traction.

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I want to say out loud that several of these folx are my most trusted collaborators, others are new leaders to our shared network. But ALL are experts in this space who usually teach longer (more costly) courses and private client programs. This is a low time/cost commitment that will pay you MAX dividends. How to join a board? What’s the commitment of time and expectations? Going beyond “governance” rules, because many real people (not just the wealthy, powerful or ‘connected’), join a small charity or nonprofit board to support a vision, a cause, a community or leaders they believe in…so how can you be not just productive but a GOOD board member? Join these experts and get the scoop.

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"Advancing LGBTQI+ Electoral Inclusion: Barriers and Solutions in Canada" Summary: Our comprehensive report sheds light on the barriers to LGBTQI+ electoral participation in Canada and offers evidence-based solutions for fostering inclusivity and equity in the democratic process. Through a collaborative effort involving AI technology and dedicated activists, we've identified key challenges and proposed actionable recommendations to ensure a more representative democracy. Key Takeaways: 1. Barriers Identified: The report highlights various barriers to LGBTQI+ electoral participation in Canada, including discriminatory policies, lack of inclusivity training, and societal stigma. 2. Collaborative Solutions: Through collaboration with AI technology and activists, the report proposes evidence-based solutions such as standardized legal processes for gender recognition and mandatory inclusivity training for election officials. 3. Importance of Representation: Ensuring LGBTQI+ individuals have equal access to the electoral process is crucial for building a more representative democracy that truly reflects the diversity of Canadian society. 4. Ongoing Advocacy: The report underscores the need for ongoing advocacy efforts to address systemic inequalities and promote LGBTQI+ rights in electoral processes. 5. Call to Action: By implementing the recommendations outlined in the report, stakeholders can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable electoral system that upholds the rights of all citizens, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Credit Summary: I'm honored to have contributed to this vital report addressing electoral participation barriers faced by LGBTQI+ and SOGI communities in Canada. Together with GBT 3.5, Claud, multi models, Genesis, Bard AI systems, and fellow activists, we've examined critical issues and put forth evidence-based solutions to advance inclusivity and equity in electoral processes. Our collective efforts aim to build a democracy that truly represents and serves all its citizens. #LGBTQIrights #ElectoralParticipation #Inclusivity #Equality #Advocacy #Canada #HumanRights #AIContribution #Collaboration #SocialJustice

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Just to say, I have posted Blog #8 in our series calling for a change in the Charity/Social Sector. https://lnkd.in/eR3D4SPZ Our charity sector needs a holistic strategic plan to help optimize the allocation of efforts towards the highest priorities for the sector.  To respect the true meaning of setting priorities, only a few key items can be presented. Outlining dozens of problems works to distract, overwhelm, and dilute efforts. Here are my top three initiatives I believe are most important: 1.     To address the growing charity gap, and to reverse the decline in giving in Canada, we need to encourage greater generosity among all targets.    →  Since religious people are more generous, the decline of religiosity challenges the future of the charity sector. We need to learn what it is about religion which drives greater generosity and then replicate it elsewhere. - To get an initial insight on the influence of religiosity, see this recent Canadian research study: https://lnkd.in/esFZcghy  →  It might be a good idea to develop and deliver an on-going ‘generosity’ campaign. This would be akin to ParticipACTION (for greater exercise), but for greater generosity.  →   It should also be said that it is inappropriate to increase charity tax incentives to incent greater giving since this is both expensive to the public purse and because generosity is more strongly influenced by culture than it is by tax credits. - For example, Quebec has the highest charity tax credits of all provinces, but has the lowest level of charitable giving per capita. 2.     To help deliver more charitable services, we need to invest in, train, and retain more motivated staff and volunteers. We need to enhance the supply. •       We need programs to make Canadians aware of the need, the opportunity, and ease to work in the charity sector, as paid staff and/or as volunteers. •      The vast majority of charities do not have HR departments so it might be useful to establish a “central, universal HR hub” for the sector (?) •       We need to defend the rationale for ‘overhead costs’ (as per “Uncharitable” by Dan Pallotta). •       It might even be interesting to allow (underpaid) staff in the charity sector to be able to claim a tax credit (say, 10% of their salary as reported on the T4s), up to some maximum (perhaps $3,000-$5,000).  •       Perhaps corporations can register for staff volunteering, with a certain portion of staff time volunteered for charitable purposes earning tax credits (?)   3.     We need better dissemination of best-practices to all 85,000 registered charities in Canada. We need to help charities become better. •       Perhaps we need a ‘central knowledge hub’ to help teach and host best-practices for the sector? Something akin to the “What Works Network” in the UK. ‍  What other priorities do you think are most relevant to those in need? 

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Considering the importance of the work being done by NQDs, we have joined forces with partners - Fondation Lucie et André Chagnon, Inspirit Foundation & Laidlaw Foundation - to create a toolkit to help more funders to support these impactful organizations. Download: https://lnkd.in/e8-A6bpt Many of the organizations doing impactful work in communities are defined by the CRA as “non-qualified donees” (NQDs), an umbrella term for non-charitable organizations, that includes Canadian non-profits and grassroots organizations, as well as international charities. Right now, too few funders are supporting NQDs, despite new guidance issued by the CRA that make this kind of funding easier. Working with NQDs offers funders an opportunity to expand their impact and to support organizations addressing historical inequities. With the disbursement quota now at 5%, an estimated additional $200 million will flow into the charitable and non-profit sector. Research indicates that groups serving and led by equity-deserving groups, including Indigenous-led and Black-led organizations, tend to receive fewer charitable dollars. Many are NQDs. If funders increase disbursement without diversifying grantees, inequities in the way support flows within the sector will only be reinforced. This free resource is available to help funders, and charities and nonprofits navigate new opportunities for partnering with NQDs. https://lnkd.in/ebkRwftQ

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New guidance that offers funders a great opportunity to expand impact and forge new partnerships with organizations led by and serving equity-deserving groups. Did you know almost half of social purpose organizations in Canada in 2022 were non-qualified donees? Furthermore, non-qualified donees are often Indigenous-led and Black-led organizations. This new toolkit is a free resource available to help funders, charities and nonprofits navigate these new opportunities.

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Please watch this impactful video on the Métis experience in the BC child welfare system. Help us bring Métis children home to their Nation in BC!

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According to the Labour Market Information Council (LMIC) | Conseil de l'information sur le marché du travail (CIMT) report, 'Decoding Job Postings: Improving accessibility for neurodivergent job seekers': "In Canada, the gaps between employment rates for neurodivergent individuals and thsoe who are neurotypical differ signifcantly. The accessibility of job postings is a pivotal factor contributing to this challenge". The report, prepared by Dr. Suzanne Spiteri, PhD, explores - 1️⃣ How do neurodivergent individuals interpret the language and content of job postings? 2️⃣ How do these interpretations influence their decisions when considering applying for a job? 3️⃣ Recommendations for employers to make job postings more accessible to neurodivergent candidates 4️⃣ A future where neurodivergence is embraced as an integral and valued aspect of Canada’s employment landscape and is particularly insightful as it includes firsthand experiences and perspectives of neurodivergent talent. These are leveraged to inform recommendations for employers in crafting inclusive job descriptions and conveying their Employer Value Proposition (EVP) to neurodivergent talent. #CareerEducators - what are some of the ways your institution is supporting neurodivergent talent in their transition from post-secondary to career? #Employers - what strategies and accommodations have you put into place to empower neurodivergent talent to thrive in your organizations? #Neurodiversity #Neurodivergence #IDEA #Accessibility #CareerEducation #CareerDevelopment #GraduateCareers #GraduateEmployment #HRInsights #HR #TalentAcquisition #ASD #CACEE

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Kids get a “D+” for overall physical activity as new research supported by the CHEO Research Institute highlights climate change as an added barrier to getting children and youth active. ParticipACTION released its 2024 Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth - the most comprehensive assessment of child and youth physical activity in Canada. Dr. Mark Tremblay, Senior Scientist at the CHEO Research Institute and Chief Scientific Officer at ParticipACTION, says: "Increasing physical activity can help mitigate the impacts of climate change and build resilience among children and youth. Climate-related changes introduce a new layer of challenges that have only amplified the importance of having a generation of kids that are physically fit and active.” 🔗 Learn more: https://hubs.la/Q02tFSdM0 #ChildrenAndYouthReportCard #CHEOResearch #physicalactivity #climatechange CHEO

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"Right now, Mushkegowuk Council — representing its seven member Omushkego First Nations and two others that have signed on for this project — is working to advance a massive Indigenous-led conservation project here. Eventually, the plan is to protect a large swath of the lowlands and also portions of Weenebeg and Washaybeyoh (or Hudson Bay) amounting to an area five times the size of Nova Scotia." #indigenous #conservation #problemsolving #projectmanagement #leadership https://lnkd.in/gUsJMvZ6

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Discover how Indigenous cultures have used tribal connections to create stability and impact. Learn about the importance of connecting with others to achieve personal and societal growth. Book your session now: https://lnkd.in/ga85nk_N #TribalConnections #IndigenousCulture #StabilityAndImpact #PersonalGrowth #SocietalGrowth #CommunityBuilding #CulturalTraditions #SocialImpact #ConnectingWithOthers #BuildingRelationships

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[Slightly longer post than usual, reflections on #NationalIndigenousPeoplesDay] Note: I want to acknowledge that the information shared here might not be perfect, and I am just beginning to learn more about it. This is my first Indigenous Peoples Day in Canada, and over the last several months, I have been trying to understand the history and experiences of Indigenous peoples here. I continue to do so by accessing literature and having conversations. The journey of reconciliation and the efforts to address the historical injustices are both humbling and profound. As I reflect on this, and having majored in Sociology during my UG, I can't help but draw comparisons to the caste system in India. The caste system in India is a social hierarchy that dates back thousands of years, traditionally dividing society into four main castes with specific roles and duties. Dalits, outside this system, have faced severe discrimination and social exclusion. This system was further entrenched during British colonial rule, which used caste categories to administer governance, often reinforcing divisions and hierarchies. Indigenous peoples in Canada have a history marked by colonization, displacement, and systemic discrimination. The residential school system, designed to assimilate Indigenous children, led to widespread abuse and cultural genocide. Today, reconciliation efforts focus on addressing these historical wrongs and promoting Indigenous rights and cultural restoration. Both systems have led to significant discrimination, violence, and social exclusion for generations. However, while the caste system was significantly influenced and codified by British colonial policies, the oppression of Indigenous peoples in Canada is deeply rooted in colonization and assimilation efforts by European settlers. The key difference lies in the nature and historical context of discrimination: caste-based oppression is intertwined with religious and social traditions, whereas the injustices against Indigenous peoples are linked to colonization and cultural genocide. I feel, both require ongoing efforts, understanding, and action to address and rectify these deep-seated issues. I invite comments and thoughts that can help me further develop my understanding. . . #CasteSystem #SocialJustice #Equity #Equality #Brahmin #Dalits #Shudras #Metis #Inuit #FirstNations #Métis

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On this National Indigenous Peoples Day, let's take the lessons from "Valley of the Birdtail" to heart. Let's recognise the strides Indigenous communities have made and continue to support their efforts toward growth and equality. Valley of the Birdtail by authors Andrew Stobo Sniderman and Douglas Sanderson narrates a poignant story about a picturesque valley divided by 150 years of racism. The town of Rossburn and the Waywayseecappo Indian reserve depicted disparities and inequalities, revealing bitter truths slowly unveiled in each chapter. It is a story of failure and triumph, entwining racism and reconciliation. 📖 The even-handed narrative serves as an eye-opener for Indigenous and non-Indigenous groups, demonstrating that reconciliation is possible with mutual respect. Seeing Indigenous projects and initiatives leading the way today shows how far Indigenous communities have come. Every inch forward counts, because collectively, those tiny steps can become giant steps toward long-term collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. Full article: https://lnkd.in/g7KbKfEZ #NationalIndigenousPeoplesdDay #NIHM2024 ##NIPD2024 #CIIS2024 #CanadianIndigenousInvestment #CelebrateCanada #ValleyOfTheBirdtail #Reconciliation #IndigenousRights #MutualRespect #SocialJustice #CommunityGrowth #Equality #IndigenousInitiatives #CulturalAwareness

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