An Accord Between the Government of Canada and the Voluntary Sector

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Foreword
Minister and Voluntary Sector Representative

Over a year ago, we launched the Voluntary Sector Initiative, a joint endeavour to better serve Canadians by strengthening the capacity of the voluntary sector and enhancing the relationship between the voluntary sector and the Government of Canada. The Reference Group of Ministers on the Voluntary Sector provided oversight on behalf of the Government of Canada. A Voluntary Sector Steering Group performed a parallel function on behalf of the voluntary sector. A key element of the Initiative has been the joint development of this Accord, a document to guide the relationship, making it clearer, making it better.

The joint process that led to the Accord reflects the strong links between the voluntary sector and the Government of Canada. The work of the Joint Accord Table, which was responsible for drafting the document and consulting across Canada, was open and respectful. The Accord itself will, we believe, encourage everyone to continue on this path.

We view the Accord as a step toward the enhancement of the relationship between the voluntary sector and the Government of Canada. We must now take the next step and put this agreement into practice. It will be judged a success when it results in a more effective working relationship based on the shared values and principles outlined in the Accord.

We look forward to continuing our shared journey on the basis of this Accord and to building the next stage of our relationship for the benefit of Canadians.

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