Policy Commentary

Release Date
August 21, 1996

Reference Number
CPC-011

Subject
Charitable purposes - Whether the promotion of employment is a charitable purpose

Purpose
To clarify the Directorate's policy regarding organizations established to promote employment.

1. To promote employment is a purpose too broadly stated to be charitable in its own right. It can, in particular, include promotion of private interests, or assistance to people not necessarily in need. Where an organization's activities are directed at a target population, broad enough to involve clients who may not need assistance, the organization cannot be registered as a charity.

2. There are charitable pursuits that can in effect promote employment. For example, a sheltered workshop for the disabled or services which provide counselling and re-training but which are not associated with a particular commercial venture or are not in effect mere job placement centres.

• Registered Charities: Community Economic Development Programs, RC4143.