Gena Rotstein's blog

Guest Blogger: Amy Lewis is currently completing her Bachelor of Management, with a major in Marketing and minor in Corporate Social Responsibility from University of Lethbridge. Amy has a diverse range communication experience, including marketing, media relations and, event planning. Amy enjoys exploring the variety of options that Marketing and Public Relations presents. 

You don’t have to look far these days to find a story on the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. This ecological disaster is on the forefront of everyone’s minds and makes for an easy target for criticism. As someone with a background in pr and who is in the infancy stages of learning about Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and the role it plays within an organization I can’t help but follow the developments in the Gulf and how BP responds. Read more »

When my daughter stuffed her brand-new Pegasus figurine into her backpack before school one morning, I knew it was a horrible mistake.

I've started dating Someone. He's significant enough to warrant a capital S and a place in my writing. So I've told my daughter about him. Read more »

Whew - that's a hard call, when should a charity close its doors for good? Read more »

You really never do. One day the non-profits you donate to could be the places you turn for help.

I am a vocal supporter for the Calgary Women's Emergency Shelter. I've donated in the past and I'd give more if I could. But I also do my part by talking about it as a worthwhile organization whenever I can: dinner parties, lunch-room gossip, casual conversations. "Hey, did you know about this charity and what they do? You should give them some money..."

Little did I know I'd be using the very services I'd donated to in the past. Someone I care about came to me with a serious problem. Her life was in tatters; her heart, mind, soul and body were all being abused.

I had no idea what to do.

For someone who'd advocated on a personal level for a charity, it never occurred to me to turn there for help. My face is bright crimson as I make this admission.

Another friend actually told me to call the Calgary Women's Emergency Shelter. Duh...I could've told myself that.

The counselor was amazing. She listened to me describe what I knew, what I was terrified of. Over the phone, she bore witness to my tears, frustration and sadness. And she understood. She didn't ask me stupid questions like, "Well, what do you mean abuse? Is there any hitting involved?" She knew exactly what to say, and exactly what I needed. Most importantly, she told me I was doing the right thing. I was listening. My inability to swoop down and save the day had been crushing me. But the counselor told me that listening was all I could do. In fact, it was exactly what I should be doing.

When my daughter and I talk about why we give to charities like the Calgary Women's Emergency Shelter, I tell her the reason is that they help people who are sad and hurt.

Now I know first hand that it's true.

Social Justice Mommy (SJM) is a regular blogger.  When she is not writing for this blog, Heather Setka, is an editor and freelance writer and single mom raising a five year old daughter.

Guest Blogger: Amy Lewis is currently completing her Bachelor of Management, with a major in Marketing and minor in Corporate Social Responsibility from University of Lethbridge. Amy has a diverse range communication experience, including marketing, media relations and, event planning. Amy enjoys exploring the variety of options that Marketing and Public Relationspresents.  

Recently I was approached on the street by a well-known charity and was asked to give. The street educators filled in the gaps of my understanding, clarified a few details and answered my questions. They improved my understanding of what the charity did and whom they served.  After their spiel they asked me if I was interested in becoming a regular donor - I wasn’t comfortable leaving financial information with somebody on the street, regardless if they wok for awell-known cause or not, and agreed that a representative could call me.

Here is the lastest update on the charities have been de-listed and suspended by the Canada Revenue Agency.

Liberty Wellness Initiative http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/nwsrm/rlss/2010/m04/nr100419-eng.html

Destiny Health and Wellness Foundation http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/nwsrm/rlss/2010/m04/nr100419b-eng.html

Notice of Suspension to International Relief Fund for the Afflicted and Needy-Canada http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/nwsrm/rlss/2010/m04/nr100413c-eng.html 

The Globe & Mail published a report on charitable sector CEO compensation.  My thoughts on CEO compensation, for what they are worth... Read more »

“Ajmal comes from a country where there’s a war, mommy.” Ajmal is a boy in my daughter’s class. Read more »

This is an open letter from Brad Krusky who just returned from Guatemala.  An update on Dentistry for All - Dr. Shane Fisher will be staying in Comi for the next six months to establish a perminent local presence working with Guatemalan dentists and health care practitioners as well as local social service agencies addressing larger issues.  If you would like more information on what is happening on the ground you can . Read more »