volunteer operating manual - ducks unlimited canada | conserving

Ducks Unlimited Canada conserves, restores and manages wetlands and associated habitats for North America’s waterfowl. These habitats also benefit other wildlife and people. ducks.ca

Volunteer Operating Manual

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1 | Introduction to Ducks Unlimited Canada 1

1.1 What is Ducks Unlimited Canada? 2 1.2 What is Wetlands for Tomorrow? 3 1.3 History of Ducks Unlimited Canada 5 1.4 The Ducks Unlimited Canada Organization 6 1.5 How Ducks Unlimited Canada Conserves Wetlands 8 1.6 Key Contact List 11

2 | Volunteering with Ducks Unlimited Canada 15

2.1 What it means to be a Ducks Unlimited Canada Volunteer 16 2.2 Being a Ducks Unlimited Canada “Ambassador” 18 2.3 Interacting With Media 19 2.4 Volunteer Councils and Chapters 20 2.5 Volunteer Positions 22 2.6 Volunteer Recognition 28

3 | Ducks Unlimited Canada Policies 29

3.1 Ducks Unlimited Canada Policies 30 3.2 Ducks Unlimited Canada Code of Conduct 37 3.2 Whistleblower Policy 39

4 | Revenue and Membership 41

4.1 Ducks Unlimited Canada’s Membership Program 42 4.2 Ducks Unlimited Canada’s Retail Program 43 4.3 Ducks Unlimited Canada’s Corporate Relations Program 44 4.4 Sponsorship and Planned Giving 45 4.5 Soliciting Sponsorship 47 4.6 Donor and Sponsorship Recognition 48

5 | Tools and Resources 53

5.1 Event Promotion 54 5.2 Event Planning and Administration 55 5.3 Volunteer Recognition 57

Table of Contents

Ducks Unlimited Canada conserves, restores and manages wetlands and associated habitats for North America’s waterfowl. These habitats also benefit other wildlife and people. ducks.ca

b Introduction toDucks Unlimited Canada

Ducks Unlimited Canada conserves, restores and manages wetlands and associated habitats for North America’s waterfowl. These habitats also benefit other wildlife and people. 1ducks.ca

Ducks Unlimited Canada conserves, restores and manages wetlands and associated habitats for North America’s waterfowl. These habitats also benefit other wildlife and people.2 ducks.ca

Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) is a national, Canadian, private non-profit organization. Our mission is to conserve, restore and manage wetlands and associated habitats for the benefit of North America’s waterfowl. These habitats also benefit other wildlife and people.

Why does DUC conserve wetlands? Wetlands are one of the most productive ecosystems on Earth, and they hold tremendous values and benefits for both wildlife and people. These ecosystems:

• provide essential habitat for as many as 600 species of wildlife in Canada, including waterfowl, water birds, shorebirds and many other species,• naturally filter water resources, improving the quality of the water Canadians drink and use every day,• help to reduce the impact of flooding and drought by absorbing excess water during wet periods and slowly releasing it during times of drought,• have the potential to mitigate climate change by removing and storing greenhouse gases from the atmosphere,• help to prevent soil erosion,• provide excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation activities like hiking, biking, wildlife watching, fishing, waterfowling, camping and more,• act as “Mother Nature’s classrooms” where children of all ages can learn about the natural world; and• do much, much more.

Despite these valuable natural benefits, Canada’s wetlands continue to vanish at an alarming rate under pressures such as urban and agricultural development, and other land-use conver-sions. In fact, up to 70 per cent of wetlands have disappeared in settled areas of Canada. That’s why DUC will continue on our mission in pursuit of our conservation vision.

Vision

DUC is working to achieve a mosaic of natural, restored and managed landscapes capable of perpetually sustaining populations of waterfowl and other wildlife by the year 2028.

Core Values

DUC will embrace and honour the following core values as we work towards achieving our conservation vision.

• The financial and other resources entrusted to us will be used efficiently and effectively.• Innovation, learning and science-based conservation actions that preserve and restore ecological functions with broad societal and environmental benefits are embraced.• Human resources are the company’s most valued asset. Innovative, dedicated and competent volunteers and staff are essential. The company will ensure that our volunteers and staff are challenged, stimulated and continuously educated, well managed and recognized for achievements.• Integrity and honesty, and the trust and respect of the public, are paramount to any success.• Public policy and education are essential in achieving our vision.• Landowners and donors play a pivotal role in achieving our vision.• Mutually beneficial partnerships will be cultivated.• We use our grassroots organization as a way of connecting to individuals and communities and inspiring Canadians to join us in achieving our vision.• The rich heritage of waterfowling and the contribution of sportsmen and women to conservation are recognized and treasured.• We pursue collaboration versus confrontation, but not at the expense of our values or the resource we serve.

1.1 | What is Ducks Unlimited Canada?


Wetlands for Tomorrow is a continental fundraising campaign being undertaken by Ducks Unlimited, Inc. (United States), Ducks Unlimited de Mexico and Ducks Unlimited Canada. It’s the largest conservation fundraising campaign ever in the history of North America.

While the DU organizations have made great conservation achievements across the continent, the rate at which wetlands are disappearing is unprecedented. To combat this staggering wetland loss and achieve our conservation vision, the DU organizations have set very lofty continental conservation and fundraising goals.

In fact, the continental goal for the Wetlands for Tomorrow campaign is set to raise $1.7 billion. Here in Canada, our revenue goal is to raise $500 million over six years, through all of DUC’s revenue sources.

These dollars will be invested in our national priorities: scientific research to guide our programs, on-the-ground habitat conser-vation, education of youth on the benefits of wetlands and the importance of conservation, and public policy efforts to bring wetland conservation to the forefront with all levels of govern-ment. For more on DUC’s national priorities, please see section 1.5 (How Ducks Unlimited Canada Conserves Wetlands).

Right now, the campaign is in the “quiet phase” in Canada, and has not been launched publicly. That means that DUC’s board of directors, executive staff and fundraising team are working to recruit additional campaign volunteers and meet with some of our largest potential donors before Wetlands for Tomorrow is launched publicly in Canada, as it has been by DU Inc. in the United States.

How will the Wetlands for Tomorrow campaign affect volunteers?

The efforts of your chapter plays an important role in helping DUC rise to the challenge of raising $500 million, which includes all of our volunteer-led fundraising activities: events, Sealed Bid Auction (SBA) and major sponsorships. The more successful DUC volunteers are at raising money, the closer we’ll be to achieving our campaign goal.

Here are a few ways that you and your chapter can grow your success and help DUC reach its Wetlands for Tomorrow campaign goal:

• Increase the money you raise at your event(s). Try to raise more money at your events by selling more tickets, increasing the number of sponsors or adding a raffle or two.

• Start another event. There are many types of fundraising events, aside from the traditional dinners. Events like “lobster nights,” ”Texas Hold’em” tournaments, golf tournaments, curling bonspiels and many others have proven to be very successful fundraisers. In addition to their traditional dinner event, volunteers are strongly encouraged to develop new ideas and hold additional events. Remember, more events mean more dollars for wetland conservation. Contact your fundraising manager for more ideas.

• Recruit new volunteers. New volunteers in your chapter mean more people to share the work, new ideas and more opportunities to raise money. Do you know someone in your community who would make a great DUC volunteer? Ask them to become a member of your chapter.

• Help start a new volunteer chapter. The more chapters we have, the more money we’ll raise for wetland conservation. Is there a community in your area, or an area in your community, that doesn’t have a DUC volunteer chapter? Don’t be afraid to ask people you know to start up a new volunteer chapter in their area.

• Set up Sealed Bid Auction (SBA) sites. SBA sites are a great way to raise money. Ask businesses and locations in your community to host easels. If your chapter is already managing SBA sites, try to set up a few more.

• Ask people and businesses to become major sponsors. Major sponsorships ($5,000 and up) are an important fundraising program for DUC. There are lots of individuals and businesses willing and able to become major sponsors – all you need to do is ask! To find out more about major sponsorships and how to solicit them, please see section 4.4 (Sponsorships and Planned Giving) and also section 4.5 (Soliciting Sponsorships).

1.2 | What is Wetlands for Tomorrow?


• A Chapter Challenge has been issued by DUC’s president, asking each chapter to raise one Major Gift per year for the duration of the Wetlands for Tomorrow campaign.

• Drive traffic on our Online Auction. Through DUC’s Online Auction, people can bid on great DUC merchandise 24 hours a day. Ask people you know to visit DUC’s website (www.ducks.ca) and place a bid on our Online Auction.

• Help grow DUC’s membership base. By bringing in more DUC members, you’ll help raise money while increasing our supporter base. Both adult and Greenwing memberships offer great benefits for people, while helping out the wetland conservation cause. Direct people to DUC’s website (www.ducks.ca) or have them call 1-866-384-DUCK to buy their memberships. Membership sales booklets have been created for you to sell memberships in your community. Ask your FM for details.

• Support DUC’s partners. DUC has many partners, and many of these offer special promotions to DUC volunteers, staff and members. For example, MBNA Canada Bank issues the DUC MasterCard, and every time one of these cards is used, DUC receives revenue. By supporting programs from partners like MBNA Canada Bank, you can help strengthen our partner relations while generating revenue for DUC.

The success of Wetlands for Tomorrow is vital to achieving our conservation vision, and the hard work of our volunteers will be a key part of that success. If you have questions, or would like more information about Wetlands for Tomorrow, contact your fundraising manager.


The history of Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) began in the dusty days of the Great Depression. In 1929, the “More Game Birds in America Foundation” was formed to probe the reasons for the drastic decline in numbers of ducks and geese in North America. With a terrible drought gripping the Prairies, many wetlands dried up and waterfowl numbers plummeted. Following an intensive survey, the foundation concluded that:

• About 70 per cent of the waterfowl on the North American continent are Canada-bred.• Agriculture, through intensive drainage and cultivation programs aimed at maximizing available cropping land, was posing a serious threat to North American waterfowl populations by contributing to an unstable water supply situation.• Droughts and floods were becoming serious limiting factors in waterfowl production.

The foundation’s report also concluded that if waterfowl pop-ulations were to be restored and maintained, it was imperative that programs to rehabilitate and restore waterfowl breeding regions of Canada be launched immediately.

No legislation in Canada provided for the spending of tax money on waterfowl habitat improvement, and the laws of the United States prohibited the spending of public funds in a foreign coun-try for this purpose. The formation of a private organization was the only solution.

A group of forward-thinking and dedicated businessmen, sportsmen and conservationists founded Ducks Unlimited, Incorporated (DU Inc.) in the United States on January 29, 1937. The drive for funds began to establish an organization in Canada to conserve and restore waterfowl habitat. In 1937, Ducks Unlimited Canada was incorporated under the laws of the Dominion of Canada as a private, non-profit conservation organization dedicated to the perpetuation and increase of North America’s waterfowl resources through the conservation, restora-tion and management of wetlands in Canada, which are prime breeding habitat for waterfowl. In 1938, DUC completed the first waterfowl habitat project: the 6,000-hectare Big Grass Marsh near Gladstone, Manitoba.

The distinguished record of Ducks Unlimited since 1937 bears tribute to the dedicated and unselfish efforts of the

waterfowlers-conservationists who form the backbone of the organization. Since its humble beginning in the 1930s, Ducks Unlimited has grown into one of North America’s leading conservation organizations.

In the late 1980s, DUC significantly expanded the scope of its conservation activities to include the conservation and enhancement of upland habitat, particularly in the Prairie provinces, in response to declining waterfowl nesting success. Through the seeding of grass, particularly native grasses, shrubs and forbs, the goal is to provide large tracts of secure upland nesting cover in areas of high wetland densities.

To date, DU Inc. has provided the majority of the funds for DUC’s conservation programs, but we’re always looking for new ways to raise money to conserve Canada’s wetlands. To that end, DUC has greatly increased its fundraising activities in Canada. DUC’s programs in membership, direct response, major spon-sorship, corporate relations, retail and event fund-raising have been invaluable in helping grow our conservation work across the country.

Support for DUC’s wetland habitat conservation mission has come from a cross-section of sources: private companies and corporations, conservation organizations, all levels of government in the U.S. and Canada, non-government organizations, hunters and anglers, and people of all walks of life who realize the value of wetlands and the importance of conserving them.

DUC is very much a volunteer-based organization. DUC volunteers have established more than 500 fundraising chapters which now account for a significant portion of DUC’s Canadian fundraising. Styled after the successful grassroots format used by DU Inc. in the United States, volunteers held the first DUC fundraising event in Tilsonburg, Ontario, in 1974. In 1979, DUC formally adopted a policy of supporting efforts of any private group wishing to raise money for DUC in this country, providing they follow DUC’s general fundraising guidelines.

As DUC looks to the future, the role of volunteers and event fundraising will become more and more important as we strive to raise the dollars needed to reach our conservation vision for Canada.

1.3 | History of Ducks Unlimited Canada


Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) is part of the larger Ducks Unlimited organization, a group of private, charitable, non-profit, internationally supported conservation organizations whose primary goals are to preserve, restore, enhance and manage waterfowl habitat in Canada, the United States and Mexico. In addition to DUC, there are two other members of the Ducks Unlimited family:

• Ducks Unlimited, Incorporated (DU Inc.) is the arm of the Ducks Unlimited organization in the United States. The original purpose of DU Inc. was to raise money in the United States for developing, preserving, restoring and enhancing the waterfowl habitat on the entire North American continent. In 1983, DU Inc. started a program to secure and improve waterfowl habitat within the U.S.

• Ducks Unlimited de Mexico (DUMAC) was established in 1970 in recognition of the continental character of migrating waterfowl. The organization is composed of Mexican conservationists who raise money within that nation for development and maintenance of the valuable marshlands used by waterfowl during the winter. DU Inc. also provides substantial funding.

DUC’s Organizational Structure

Board of DirectorsAs a private, non-profit organization, DUC is governed by a volunteer board of directors numbering about 75 members, who serve at their own expense in a policy setting and advisory capacity. About two-thirds of the directors are from all regions of Canada; the remainder are appointed by DU Inc. On the board, there are various officers:

• Chairman of the Board • President • Vice-Presidents (two)• Treasurer• Secretary

Business LinesDUC pursues its conservation vision under the guidance of a five-year business plan which outlines the goals and objectives for all program areas in the company and what actions are needed

to achieve them. Under this plan, DUC’s activities are grouped under three main business lines:

• Conservation – the Conservation business line encompasses all of DUC’s wetland and habitat-related work, from scientific research and on-the-ground conservation projects to education and public policy.

• Revenue and Membership – this business line oversees all of DUC’s fundraising activities. As a non-profit organization, DUC depends upon the financial support of Canadians. DUC’s fundraising activities in Canada are very diverse, including the development staff, who work with major gifts and planned giving; the membership team, whose goal is to grow DUC’s membership across Canada; corporate relations, which establishes revenue-generating, mutually beneficial partnerships with corporations; retail and Sealed Bid Auction programs; and the volunteer-driven event fundraising program.

• Corporate Services – this business line consists of all the internal support services, such as Information Systems, finance and administration, marketing and communications, human resources, etc., that are necessary for the day-to-day functioning of DUC.

StaffThe day-to-day operations of DUC are carried out by a wide variety of staff, all of whom are overseen by the executive vice-president, who acts as the chief operating officer of the organization. The executive vice-president works very closely with the executive staff, who are the most senior staff members at DUC and the heads of their respective departments and program areas. DUC’s executive is as follows:

• Executive Vice-President• Director of Conservation Programs• Chief Financial Officer• Director of Revenue and Membership• Director of Marketing and Communications• Director of Corporate Services and Corporate Counsel• Director of Education Programs• Director of Regional Operations – Western Region• Director of Regional Operations – Eastern Region

1.4 | The Ducks Unlimited Canada Organization


VolunteersFor almost five decades, DUC’s sole focus was conserving and restoring wetland habitat for waterfowl. While unsolicited cash donations were always welcome and the donor program was an integral part of our relationship with DU Inc. in the United States, DUC was not actively involved in fundraising.

When a group of DUC supporters in southern Ontario organized the first DUC event in 1974, fundraising was undertaken for the first time. Following a significant growth in support for these

events, DUC directors adopted a policy supporting the efforts of volunteers who raise much-needed money for wetland conservation.

By 1980, a formal fundraising program was established and the first fundraising staff were hired. In October 1983 the executive committee of the board gave formal approval to an expanded fundraising program. Today, this has grown into our revenue and membership business line.

Vice-President O�cers’ Committee

President

Executive Assistant

Executive Vice-President

Vice-President

Provincial Volunteer Chairs

Senior Provincial Directors

Secretary

Treasurer

Area ChairsZone & District Senior Volunteers

Senior Volunteer Council

Corporate Counsel & Director of

Corporate Services

Director Education

Director Conservation

Programs

Director Marketing &

Communications

Director Revenue & Membership

Programs

Chief Financial O�cer

Directors of Regional

Operations (2)

Corporate Controller

Manager Risk &

Compliance

Provincial Managers Operations

Manager Membership

Manager Special Project

& Retail

Manager Development

Manager Events

Manager Corporate Relations

Director Conservation

Planning

Director Government

Relations

Canadian Director I.W.W.R.

Manager I. S.

Manager H.R.

Board of DirectorsChairman of the Board Operating Committees

1) Conservation Programs (Director of Conservation Programs)

2) Finance & Risk (Chief Financial O�cer)

3) Governance (Corporate Counsel & Director of Corporate Services)

4) Membership & Revenue (Director of Revenue & Membership)

Organizational ChartDucks Unlimited Canada

( ) indicates sta� liason


Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) conserves, restores and manages wetlands and their associated habitats through our national priorities; by working in partnership with govern-ments, cororations, individuals and other groups; and by raising money to support our wetland conservation mission.

National Priorities

Our conservation work is focused on four national priorities:

Scientific ResearchFor DUC, the first step in conservation is learning as much as possible about wetlands and waterfowl. DUC believes that science is fundamental to achieving our conservation vision. This marriage of science and conservation uniquely positions DUC among Canada’s private conservation organizations.

Scientific knowledge helps drive planning, and continuing research and monitoring help refine and improve DUC’s conservation programs. This, in turn, ensures that our limited resources are devoted to delivering conservation programs in an efficient manner where they will have the most impact.

The Institute for Wetland and Waterfowl Research (IWWR) is DUC’s science arm. IWWR staff and university partners pursue new knowledge to help guide conservation programs, contribute to the education of young conservation professionals, communicate what they learn and support conservation planners in the application of new knowledge. The IWWR’s current focus areas are research to:

• improve the effectiveness and efficiency of DUC’s conservation actions;• help understand factors affecting species of special concern (e.g., scaup, northern pintails, sea ducks); and• understand the ecological goods and services provided by waterfowl habitats, which enhances the value that society perceives in conserving those habitats.

Direct Habitat ConservationMost of DUC’s work focuses on our on-the-ground efforts to conserve wetlands and associated habitats. These direct habitat programs come in two forms: intensive and extension programs.

Intensive programs usually involve securing ecologically important areas, or restoring damaged or destroyed wetlands.

Often, this is done through special agreements with landowners called conservation easements, where the landowner retains ownership of the land but agrees to leave wetland habitats undisturbed. In some cases, DUC will lease land, or even buy it, if it is ecologically important, to ensure habitat remains in its natural state.

Extension programs tend to focus on “uplands,” which are the dry areas surrounding a wetland. Uplands play an important role in the health of the landscape, as well as in the life cycles of waterfowl and other wildlife. An example of an extension program is a rotational grazing program to ensure that natural grasslands are not exhausted by livestock. This ensures healthy nesting habitat for waterfowl and increases wetlands’ ability to naturally filter water. Another example is winter wheat, seeded in the fall rather than the spring, which helps ensure more habitat for nesting waterfowl.

DUC is focusing our conservation work largely (but not exclu-sively) on nine key habitat conservation priorities. These priori-ties are spread throughout Canada, and represent areas that are both ecologically important and threatened:

1.) Georgia Basin – In British Columbia, DUC is working on conserving wetlands and habitat in areas such as the Georgia Basin. Estuaries in this area are critical for hundreds of wildlife species, but are at high risk of loss due to urban, industrial and agricultural development. DUC is working to conserve these habitats and ensure their long-term health.

2.) Fraser River Plateau and Columbia River Basin – These ecological regions in British Columbia contain a diversity of habitats, which are particularly important to most of the province’s threatened and endangered wildlife and plants. DUC is actively working with government, First Nations and aboriginal groups, forest companies, ranchers and urban planners to protect wetland values while still maintaining viable resource use.

3.) Missouri Coteau – In Saskatchewan and Alberta, because of the abundance of native grassland and pothole wetlands, areas such as the Missouri Coteau are recognized internationally as some of the most productive wildlife habitat areas in North America. DUC is working with landowners and governments to conserve existing wetland and upland habitat in the region.

1.5 | How Ducks Unlimited Canada Conserves Wetlands


4.) Parkland Ecoregion – In Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta, areas such as the Parkland Ecoregion are home to wetlands and lush vegetation that are critical for breeding waterfowl. A high conservation priority for DUC, this region has changed dramatically over the last 125 years, and we are striving to conserve existing wetlands and uplands, and restore habitat that has already been degraded.

5.) Boreal Forest – The boreal forest holds more fresh water in its wetlands, lakes and rivers than any other place on earth, while generating billions of dollars for Canada’s economy. DUC is working with governments, industry, First Nations and aboriginal groups and other partners to find a balance between development and conservation in the boreal forest, while ensuring ecosystem functions are maintained.

6.) Pintail Initiative – In the Prairies, extensive habitat loss has led to a sharp decline in pintail duck populations. It is estimated that their numbers have dropped from more than 10 million breeding pairs to as few as two million in recent years, a staggering 83 per cent decline. In Alberta, one of our priorities is partnering with farmers, ranchers, corporations, foundations, provincial conservation agencies and other conservation organizations to conserve pintail habitat, including critical grasslands.

7.) Great Lakes Basin – In Ontario, wetlands in the Great Lakes watersheds are critical to the health of the largest freshwater ecosystem on earth, as well as hundreds of wildlife species. This area is also home to Canada’s highest concentration of people. DUC is working with public and private sector partners to conserve, restore and manage thousands of acres of wetland habitat in the Great Lakes Basin and in other critical areas of Ontario.

8.) St. Lawrence Valley – Millions of waterfowl are drawn to wetlands in Québec and Ontario every year. The fertile land also brings more people to the province, which puts tremendous pressure on habitat. DUC is working to turn the tide of extensive habitat loss in areas such as the St. Lawrence Valley by conserving and managing its productive wetlands.

9.) Atlantic Coastal Region – Coastal marshes and plains provide the keystone habitat in Atlantic Canada, and support a diverse wildlife community. In New Brunswick, this is one of the areas where DUC is working to conserve, restore and manage habitat and improve conservation policies and land-

use practices to ensure the long-term health and productivity of the region.

Public PolicyDUC works to influence government legislation where it pertains to wetland conservation. By working with government at the legislative level, DUC can positively influence much more habitat than if we were working alone. To this end, DUC main-tains an office in Ottawa, and works with all levels of government – federal, provincial and municipal. These efforts have resulted in wetland conservation policies at the city and provincial levels, as well as the inclusion of wetland conser-vation in federal agricultural policies.

EducationIn order to achieve our conservation goals, DUC needs the support of Canadians. That’s why we engage in marketing and communication activities to raise awareness about the important role wetlands play in our lives, and to build support for our conservation work.

DUC has a national, curriculum-based wetland education pro-gram called Project Webfoot. Thanks to the support of generous third party sponsors, DUC provides Project Webfoot educational materials and wetland field trips to Grade 4 classes (Grade 5 in Alberta) across the country to teach them the tremendous values these habitats hold for people and wildlife. Since 1997, over 242,000 students have participated in Project Webfoot, which has received an annual teacher approval rating of 98 per cent.

Partnerships

DUC takes a partnership approach to wetland conservation, realizing that we can accomplish much more by working side by side with governments, private industry, landowners and other partners. DUC works with other waterfowl conserva-tion agencies and organizations under the North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP).

NAWMP is an international conservation program involving Canada, the United States and Mexico, with the objective of restoring waterfowl populations to average levels of the 1970s. Under NAWMP, waterfowl population goals were established and the key habitats that would require restoration and protec-tion to reach those goals were identified. To date, NAWMP has been an outstanding success in demonstrating that conservation can be delivered on a continental scale.


Canadian Fundraising

DUC is a non-profit charitable organization (our charitable registration number is 11888 8957 RR0001). As such, we rely on the support of individuals, corporations, organizations and governments to provide the funding needed to deliver our conservation programs.

Canadian fundraising is the responsibility of our Revenue and Membership business line, and accounts for approximately one-third of all the money DUC receives. This includes all our fundraising efforts in Canada:

• event fundraising program (driven by DUC’s dedicated volunteers)• membership acquisition and direct mail fundraising• corporate partnership programs (e.g., the DUC MasterCard program through MBNA Canada Bank)• retail programs (including DUC’s Online Store, Online Auction, Sealed Bid Auction program)• major sponsorships• planned giving (Feather Society)• donations

DUC’s programs for raising money in Canada for wetland con-servation are becoming more important each and every year.


Revenue and Membership Managers

Perry McCormickNational Manager of Events3520 114 Avenue SE Calgary, Alberta T2Z 3V6 Tel: 403-201-5577 E-mail: [email protected]

Deb BaldwinManager of Membership ServicesP.O. Box 1160Stonewall, Manitoba R0C 2Z0Tel: 204-467-3000E-mail: [email protected]

Michael ThorntonNational Manager of Special ProjectsP.O. Box 1160Stonewall, Manitoba R0C 2Z0 Tel: 204-467-3000E-mail: [email protected]

National Manager of Development566 Welham RoadBarrie, Ontario L4N 8Z7Tel: 705-721-4444

Stephen TonningNational Manager of Corporate Relations752 Union StreetFredericton, New Brunswick E3A 3P2Tel: 506-458-8848E-mail: [email protected]

Fundraising Managers

British Columbia

Rory Brown (Team Leader) 2400 Eastgate PlaceVictoria, British Columbia V87 6R7Tel: 250-652-5090E-mail: [email protected]

Ken Ferris7813 Renison PlacePrince George, British Columbia V2N 3J2Tel: 250-964-3825E-mail: [email protected]

Manda Hanson954A Laval Crescent Kamloops, BC V2C 5P5Tel: 250-374-8307-BE-mail: [email protected]

Territories

Jason Charlwood (Northwest Territories) Suite 4A 4921 49 St (PO Box 1438) Yellowknife, NWT X1A 2P1Tel: 867-873-6744E-mail: [email protected]

Gordon Moffatt (Yukon)40 Finch CrescentWhitehorse, Yukon Y1A 5X5Tel: 867-668-3825E-mail: [email protected]

Alberta

Murray Hampshire (Team Leader) 9615-105 StreetGrand Prairie, Alberta T8V 6V5 Tel: 780-532-7960E-mail: [email protected]

Marty van Sloun100-17958 106th AvenueEdmonton, Alberta T5S 1V4Tel: 780-444-2363E-mail: [email protected] 5015-49 StreetCamrose, Alberta T4V 1N5 Tel: 780-672-6786

Patrick Fulowka3520 114 Avenue SECalgary, Alberta T2Z 3V6Tel: 403-201-5577E-mail: [email protected]

Archie Balaski96 Stratton CI SEMedicine Hat, Alberta T1B 4S8Tel: 403-526-0364E-mail: [email protected]

1.6 | Key Contacts List

The following is a list of contact information for key Ducks Unlimited Canada staff:


Saskatchewan

Keith Mackintosh 603-45th Street WestSaskatoon, Saskatchewan S7L 5W5Tel: 306-665-7356E-mail: [email protected]

Bob PoleyP.O. Box 4465, 1030 Winnipeg StreetRegina, Saskatchewan S4R 8P8Tel: 306-569-0424E-mail: [email protected]

Manitoba

Brent Richards (Team Leader) 15 Dodds Road, Unit DHeadingly, Manitoba R4H 1E3 Tel: 204-832-0755E-mail: [email protected]

Tyler ShielsUnit 2 – 545 Conservation Drive,Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7L8Tel: 1-204-729-3510E-mail: [email protected]

Ontario

Steven Stinkowji47-7th AvenueEnglehart, Ontario P0J 1H0 Tel: 705-544-8437E-mail: [email protected]

Tim Binch614 Norris Court, Unit 1Kingston, Ontario K7P 2R9Tel: 613-389-0418E-mail: [email protected]

Aaron Everingham21 Bayview Estate Road, RR 3Fenelon Falls, Ontario K0M 1N0 Tel: 705-738-9929E-mail: [email protected]

Jerry Kwicinski1036 Commissioners Road W.London, Ontario N6K 1C3Tel: 519-473-4421E-mail: [email protected]

Andrew Laidley29 Corneil StreetLindsay, Ontario K9V 5T5Tel: 705-878-4111E-mail: [email protected]

Québec

Jocelyn Landry (Team Leader)206 rue de Manoir, Bureau 204Montmagny, Québec G5V 1G3 Tel: 1-877-551-5757E-mail: [email protected]

Pascal Desmedt409 rue de L’Île-de-MaiLachenaie, Quebec J6W 6G1Tel: 450-729-0512E-mail: [email protected]

Atlantic Canada

Barry Burke (Team Leader) 752 Union StreetFredericton, New Brunswick E3A 3P2Tel: 506-458-8848E-mail: [email protected]

Jamie Young (Nova Scotia/Prince Edward Island)70 Tevoit PlaceTruro, Nova Scotia B2N 5B1Tel: 902-667-8726E-mail: [email protected]

Kelly Sandoval (Newfoundland and Labrador)6 Labrador PlaceSt. John’s, Newfoundland A1A 3S3Tel: 709-738-5405E-mail: [email protected]

National Marketing and Communications

Madeleine Arbez (Director of Marketing and Communications)P.O. Box 1160Stonewall, Manitoba R0C 2Z0Tel: 204-467-3266E-mail: [email protected]

Shauna Schopohl (Revenue and Membership)P.O. Box 1160Stonewall, Manitoba R0C 2Z0Tel: 204-467-3270E-mail: [email protected]

Duncan Morrison (Conservation)P.O. Box 1160 Stonewall, Manitoba R0C 2Z0Tel: 204-467-3202E-mail: [email protected]

Leigh Patterson (Corporate Services/Media Response)P.O. Box 1160Stonewall, Manitoba R0C 2Z0Tel: 204-467-3306E-mail: [email protected]


Regional/Provincial Marketing and Communications

Wendy Fister (British Columbia) 13370-78 Avenue, Unit 511Surrey, British Columbia V3W 0H6 Tel: 604-592-5004E-mail: [email protected]

Marci Dube (Western Region)200, 10720-178 StreetEdmonton, Alberta T5S 1J3Tel: 780-489-2002E-mail: [email protected]

Kristina Dembinski (Alberta)200, 10720-178 StreetEdmonton, Alberta T5S 1J3Tel: 780-489-2002E-mail: [email protected]

Lori Gasper (Saskatchewan North)603-45 Street WestSaskatoon, Saskatchewan S7L 5W5Tel: 306-665-7356E-mail: [email protected]

Lee Moats (Saskatchewan South) P.O. Box 4465, 1030 Winnipeg Street Regina, Saskatchewan S4P 3W7 Tel: 306-569-0424E-mail: [email protected]

(Manitoba)P.O. Box 1160Stonewall, Manitoba R0C 2Z0

Lynette Mader (Ontario)566 Welham RoadBarrie, Ontario L4N 8Z7Tel: 705-721-4444E-mail: [email protected] Kelly MacDonald (Atlantic Canada)P.O. Box 430, Unit 64, Highway 6Amherst, Nova Scotia B4H 3Z5Tel: 902-667-8726E-mail: [email protected]


c Volunteering withDucks Unlimited Canada


Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) continues to be one of the most liked and respected environmental organizations in Canada. It’s a reputation we do not take lightly, and it’s a responsibility that we can meet thanks to the efforts of thousands of volunteers across the country like you.

DUC is a volunteer-driven organization. As a DUC volunteer, you’ve become part of a team that is: a) focused on wetland conservation; b) steeped in tradition; and c) active in every province and territory in Canada.

You’re not alone – in fact, you’ve joined thousands of other dedicated Canadians who volunteer their valuable time to raise money that will help ensure that wetlands remain a part of Canada’s many landscapes for future generations of people and waterfowl. It’s a great way to show that you care about Canada’s natural environment, wildlife and people.

Benefits of Volunteering

While the efforts of volunteers are a driving force in DUC’s success, it doesn’t just benefit wetland conservation. Volunteers also gain from their experiences. DUC volunteers…

• feel a sense of satisfaction in knowing they’re making a real difference• are part of a group with shared values about environmental and wildlife conservation• havetheopportunitytogetinvolvedplusparticipatein fun events• become better informed about wetlands, associated habitats and wildlife• build networks of new friends and fellow volunteers• are part of a team that is focused on achieving a goal• get many opportunities to share their talents and use their creativity• learn new skills and develop leadership abilities

Volunteer Activities

When you become a DUC volunteer, you can either join your local volunteer chapter, or start a new one. Being a DUC volun-teer can be a very diverse and fulfilling experience. There are many different activities and many different ways you can support wetland conservation through volunteering. These include:

1.) Helping to organize and put on a DUC fundraising event – Event fundraising is the core of DUC’s efforts to raise money, and it’s completely driven by volunteers. Organizing an event entails many different activities:

• organization and administration • promotion of the event• entertainment co-ordination • audiovisual support • designing of event program • database management • auction and raffle management • ticket sales

2.) Starting a new volunteer chapter – In order to raise money needed to reach our conservation goals, DUC must increase the number of fundraising events held each year. By starting a new volunteer chapter to hold new events, you’ll be taking the lead in helping us grow our success.

3.) Managing Sealed Bid Auction (SBA) sites – The SBA program places DUC art prints on easels in local businesses, offering patrons the opportunity to bid on the prints. Much of this exciting program is managed by volunteers like you. You can help out by getting new businesses to host SBA easels and by rotating prints and managing existing SBA sites.

4.) Organizing Greenwing youth events – Greenwing is DUC’s youth membership program. Volunteers can organize and put on an event for Greenwings in their area. These “Greenwing Days” allow young people to get together and enjoy the outdoors, develop skills and learn about wetlands and wildlife. It’s a great way to get the next generation involved in conservation.

5.) Seeking major sponsorships – Many businesses, organizations and individuals support DUC by making major sponsorship donations, and there are those in your community who may wish to do the same. It’s a way to raise significant funds for wetland conservation, and your chapter will receive credit for any major sponsorships you bring in. All you need to do is ask! Be sure to speak with your fundraising manager and development manager before pursuing a major sponsorship. To find out more about major sponsorships and how to solicit them, please see section 4.4 (Sponsorships and Planned Giving) and section 4.5 (Soliciting Sponsorships).

2.1 | What It Means to Be a Ducks Unlimited Canada Volunteer


6.) Developing new ways to raise money – In addition to our traditional DUC fundraising events, we’re always on the lookout for new and exciting ways to generate more money for our conservation work. You can help to organize other types of fundraising events, like golf tournaments, curling bonspiels, fishing derbies, etc. Or, if you have an idea for a different way to help us raise money, please share it with your fundraising manager.

These are just some of the fun and engaging activities you can do as a DUC volunteer. In fact, DUC strongly encourages every volunteer chapter to get involved in all of these activities to diversify and grow your fundraising options in your com-munity. To find out how else you can help, please contact your fundraising manager.


As a Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) volunteer, you are supporting our wetland conservation mission on more than one level. Not only are you helping raise money for our conservation work, but your involvement also means that you have become an “ambassador” for DUC in your community.

When people come to your fundraising event and hear of your involvement with DUC as a volunteer, they may have questions for you about DUC. Your interaction with the people of your community is a great opportunity to speak about DUC and help raise awareness about wetlands and conservation.

To help you, we have provided some basic key messages to use when the opportunity arises to act as DUC’s “ambassador” in your community.

Key DUC Messages

1.) DUC is Canada’s wetland conservation leader – DUC’s mission is to conserve, restore and manage wetlands and associated habitats for North America’s waterfowl. These habitats also benefit other wildlife and people.

• DUC has positively influenced millions of acres of habitat across Canada.• DUC has completed 7,800 conservation projects and is active in every province and territory in Canada.

2.) Wetlands are invaluable to wildlife. They also provide significant benefits to people.

• Wetlands provide habitat for hundreds of wildlife species in Canada.• Wetlands act as nature’s water filters, cleansing harmful bacteria, pollutants and other impurities from the water we drink and use every day.• Wetlands also provide recreational opportunities, help reduce the impact of floods and droughts, protect against soil erosion and act as “outdoor classrooms” for children of all ages.

3.) Wetlands continue to vanish at an alarming rate in Canada.

• Up to 70 per cent of wetlands have disappeared in settled areas of Canada.• People can help conserve wetlands by attending a fundraising event, becoming a member, making a donation or volunteering with DUC.

By helping us get these messages out to Canadians, you’ll be taking the lead in raising awareness about the importance of wetlands, the importance of conservation and how people can support DUC. For more information on working with media, please see section 2.3 (Interacting With Media).

If you don’t have an answer for a question that is asked of you, please contact your local marketing and communications staff person (see section 1.6 Key Contacts List).

2.2 | Being a Ducks Unlimited Canada “Ambassador”


Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) has earned a reputation as the best-liked and most credible environmental organization in Canada. As our country’s leader in wetland conservation, DUC is naturally in the media spotlight. Media often come to us on issues relating to wetlands, waterfowl and conservation.

People often get nervous at the thought of talking to “the media.” However, media attention is nothing to be afraid of. The media’s job is to inform the public, and working with them is a great opportunity for us to tell the DUC story to Canadians.

As a DUC volunteer, the opportunity may arise for you to be interviewed or talk with media. Often, this will be part of promotion of your fundraising event; however, there may be other opportunities, as well. When contacted by a member of the media, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

1.) As a volunteer, it is not your role to act as a spokesperson for DUC on policy, program matters or other issues not relating directly to your fundraising activities. If you are asked about topics outside your responsibilities as a volunteer, refer the reporter to your local marketing and communications staff person (please see section 1.6 Key Contacts List) or nearest DUC office.

2.) When you are speaking to the media, remember that you are speaking on behalf of DUC. Please refrain from offering personal opinions. Instead, speak from DUC’s point of view.

3.) Reporters work on tight deadlines, so when they call, give their call priority and deal with it promptly.

4.) If you are contacted by media, stop and think about what the reporter is asking and whether or not you are the best person to answer their questions. If in doubt, refer the reporter to your local marketing and communications staff person (please see section 1.6 Key Contacts List).

5.) If you are going to be interviewed, prepare as much as possible. If the reporter contacted you by telephone, tell them you will call them back. Take 30 minutes or so to prepare, then call them back.

6.) DUC never says “no comment,” but if you don’t know the answer to a question, say so. You may receive questions for which you are not the best person to answer. In those cases, you should refer the reporter to your local marketing and communications staff person (see section 1.6 Key Contacts List).

7.) There is no such thing as “off the record,” ever. When talking with media, speak as though everything you tell them will be printed in the newspaper or aired on television.

8.) Avoid using jargon or technical terms. Remember that the media’s main audience is the general public, and people will not understand this specialized language.

9.) Visuals help tell the story. If you are going to be interviewed by television or print (newspapers, magazines, etc.), choose a location that provides a good visual background for footage and photographs, if possible. For example, a local wetland offers a good photo or footage opportunity that provides a visual link to our wetland conservation mission.

10.) Stay positive. If you get a negative question, try to answer it in positive terms.

11.) Try to keep DUC’s key messages in mind (see section 2.2 Being a Ducks Unlimited Canada “Ambassador”) and try to get them across during your interview as much as possible. It’s a good idea to have three key points to emphasize so that you keep focused during the interview and can more effectively convey your messages.

If you do speak with media, please make your fundraising manager and local marketing and communications co-ordinator aware of the interview, which newspaper/station you spoke to and when the story will print/air.

Should you have any questions about interacting with media, please contact your local marketing and communications staff person (see section 1.6 Key Contacts List).

2.3 | Interacting With Media


Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) is a volunteer-based organi-zation. With nearly 8,000 dedicated volunteers raising money for wetland conservation across the country, DUC has a very defined volunteer organizational structure.

Volunteer councils and committees co-ordinate and direct the fundraising activities at provincial, district zone and area levels. The objectives and responsibilities of volunteer councils and committees are as follows:

Provincial Council

The provincial council is the most senior DUC volunteer council in the province. It is chaired by the provincial chair-person, who is also responsible for calling and scheduling provincial council meetings. Members of the provincial council include:

• provincial chairperson• provincial treasurer• district chairpersons• zone chairpersons• members of the provincial advisory council• subcommittee chairpersons, which may include:

° Greenwing ° major gift° sponsor ° convention° membership ° event merchandise° communications ° newsletter° publicity/promotion ° special events° shoot ° golf° ladies and art ° Sealed Bid Auction° recruitment

DUC directors living in the province are ex officio members of the provincial council. Fundraising managers serve as staff liaisons.

The objective of the provincial council is to provide the front line of representation in fundraising activities to DUC con-tributors and the public. The specific responsibilities of the provincial council are to:

b Make recommendations for improvements to the organization.c Accept specific duties requested of the province by the event and volunteer committee of the board of directors.

d Foster and encourage DUC participation from contributors in the province.e Implement plans for recruiting new volunteers and contributors in the province.f Implement plans for fundraising activities in the province.g Identify contributors in the organization who are suitable candidates for provincial council positions.h Be familiar with the organization and policies of DUC.i Budget and manage funds from the provincial operating account.j Recommend annual fundraising objectives for approval from the membership and revenue committee of the board of directors.

Provincial Advisory Council

The provincial advisory council serves to advise the provincial council in a number of areas. The provincial advisory council:

• is appointed by the provincial council• is chaired by a member of the provincial advisory council• meets at the discretion of the provincial advisory council chairperson

Members of the provincial advisory council include:

• past provincial chairpersons• directors• provincial council members• other volunteer leaders who have rendered important services to DUC

The objective of the provincial advisory council is to provide valuable counsel and advice to the Provincial Council in matters relating to policies, procedures, organization, and fundraising campaigns. Specific responsibilities of the provincial advisory council are to:

b Advise the provincial council in policy and procedural matters.c Counsel the provincial council regarding methods and techniques of fundraising programs.d Offer recommendations to the provincial council for the improvement and growth of the provincial organization.e Provide a senior pool of leadership from which candidates for provincial chairperson and other positions can be selected.

2.4 | Volunteer Councils and Chapters


District Council

The district council is the most senior DUC volunteer council in a district. It is chaired by a district chairperson, who is also responsible for calling and scheduling district council meetings.

Members of the district council include:

• district chairperson• zone chairpersons• provincial subcommittee members• members of the provincial advisory council

DUC directors living in the district are ex officio members of the district council. Fundraising manager(s) serve as staff liaisons.

The objective of the district council is to provide the front line of representation in fundraising activities to DUC contributors and the public. Specific responsibilities of the district council are to:

b Make recommendations for improvements to the organization.c Accept specific duties requested of the district by the provincial council and/or provincial executive subcommittee.d Foster and encourage DUC participation from contributors in the district.e Implement plans for recruiting new volunteers and contributors in the district.f Implement plans for fundraising activities in the district.g Identify contributors in the organization who are suitable candidates for provincial and/or district council positions.h Be familiar with the organization and policies of DUC.i Recommend an annual fundraising objective for approval from the provincial council.

Zone Council

The zone council is the most senior DUC volunteer council in a zone. It is chaired by a zone chairperson, who is also responsible for calling and scheduling zone council meetings.

Members of the zone council include:

• zone chairperson• area/committee chairpersons• provincial subcommittee members• members of the provincial advisory council

DUC directors living in the zone are ex officio members of the zone council. Fundraising managers serve as staff liaisons.

The objective of the zone council is to provide the front line of representation in fundraising activities to DUC contributors and the public.

The specific responsibilities of the zone council are to:

b Make recommendations for improvements to the organization.c Accept specific duties requested of the zone by the district council.d Foster and encourage DUC participation from contributors in the zone.e Implement plans for recruiting new volunteers and contributors in the zone.f Implement plans for fundraising activities in the zone.g Identify contributors in the organization who are suitable candidates for zone council positions.h Be familiar with the organization and policies of DUC.i Recommend an annual fundraising objective for approval from the district council.

Chapter

The volunteer chapter oversees all fundraising activities in a geographic area, usually defined by a town or community. It is chaired by a chapter chairperson, who is also responsible for calling and scheduling chapter meetings. Members of the chapter include all the DUC volunteers in that geographic area. The fundraising manager serves as the staff liaison.

The objective of the chapter is to provide the front line of representation in fundraising activities to DUC contributors and the public. Specific responsibilities of the chapter are to:

b Make recommendations for improvements to the organization.c Foster and encourage DUC participation from contributors in the aread Implement plans for recruiting new volunteers and contributors in the area.e Implement plans for fundraising activities in the area.f Be familiar with the organization and policies of DUC.g Recommend an annual fundraising objective for approval from the district council.


Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) is very much a volunteer-based organization. With thousands of dedicated volunteers raising money for wetland conservation across the country, DUC has a carefully defined volunteer organizational structure.

The following outlines the roles and responsibilities of all the various positions with the DUC volunteer organization.

Provincial Chairperson

Basic FunctionThe provincial chairperson develops and fosters the fundraising activities of DUC in the province, and is nominated by provincial volunteers and approved by the senior provincial director. The provincial chairperson sits on the DUC board of directors while serving in this capacity.

The term of office for this position is two years, through a recommendation from the senior provincial director, sustained at the discretion of the chairperson of the board of directors.

ResponsibilitiesThe provincial chairperson:

b Develops and implements fundraising activities in the province.c Develops and implements volunteer, sponsor, member and Greenwing recruiting programs in the province.d Attends/participates in annual provincial council meetings.e Ensures that the provincial treasurer and all volunteer chapters maintain adequate records and promptly forward funds to DUC as outlined in the policy section of this manual.f Serves on the membership and revenue committee of the board of directors and reports on fundraising activities in the province.g Makes suggestions and recommendations for improvements through the senior provincial director and/or the membership and revenue committee chairperson.h Responds to inquiries from volunteers and members.i Advises and informs the senior provincial director of activities in the province.j Appoints volunteers to all provincial-level fundraising positions and the district chairperson position.1) Assists in the appointment of zone and area chairpersons to co-ordinate activities in specified geographic areas in the province.

1! Serves as chairperson of the provincial council and is a member of the provincial advisory council.

RelationshipsThe provincial chairperson maintains the following relationships:

b Reports to the president through the membership and revenue committee.c Co-operates with fundraising managers to co-ordinate provincial activities.d Supervises the activities of district, zone and chapter chairpersons.

District Chairperson

Basic FunctionThe district chairperson develops and fosters the fundraising activities for DUC in the prescribed area composing their dis-trict. The district chairperson is appointed by the provincial chairperson with input from the fundraising manager.

The term of office for this position is two years, sustained at the discretion of the provincial chairperson.

ResponsibilitiesThe district chairperson:

b Develops and implements fundraising activities in the district.c Develops and implements volunteer, sponsor, member and Greenwing recruiting programs in the district.d Attends banquets and other fundraising events as a representative of the provincial council and provides informative reports to the provincial chairperson on activities attended.e Makes suggestions and recommendations for improvements in fundraising activities through the provincial chairperson.f Responds promptly to inquiries from volunteers and members.g Co-ordinates the programs of zone committees in the district.h Serves as district council chairperson.i Serves as a member of the provincial council.j Attends and participates in provincial council meetings.1) Advises and informs the provincial chairperson regarding activities in the district.1! Assists in the collection and forwarding of funds and reports generated by area committees in the district.

2.5 | Volunteer Positions


RelationshipsThe district chairperson maintains the following relationships:

b Reports to the provincial chairperson.c Co-operates with the fundraising manager to co-ordinate district activities.

Zone Chairperson

Basic FunctionThe zone chairperson develops and fosters the fundraising activities of DUC in the prescribed area composing the zone and is appointed by the provincial chairperson, with input from the district chairperson and fundraising manager.


ResponsibilitiesThe zone chairperson:

b Develops and implements fundraising activities in the zone.c Develops and implements volunteer, member, sponsor and Greenwing recruiting programs in the zone.d Attends banquets and other fundraising events as a representative of the provincial council and provides the district chairperson with informative reports on these events.e Makes suggestions and recommendations for improvements to fundraising activities through the district chairperson.f Responds promptly to inquiries from volunteers, sponsors and members.g Co-ordinates programs of the area committees in the zone.h Serves as chairperson of the zone committee.i Serves as a member of the provincial committee.j Attends and participates in the provincial committee annual meeting.1) Advises and informs district and provincial chairpersons regarding activities in the zone.1! Assists in the collection and forwarding of funds and reports generated by the area committees in the zone to DUC.

RelationshipsThe zone chairperson:

b Reports to the provincial chairperson through the district chairperson.c Co-operates with the fundraising manager and district chair to co-ordinate zone activities.

Provincial Sponsor Chairperson

Basic FunctionThe provincial sponsor chairperson develops and fosters the sponsor programs and sponsor recruitment activities of DUC in the province in accordance with established policies and guidelines. This position is appointed by the provincial chair-person with approval of the provincial council.


ResponsibilitiesThe provincial sponsor chairperson:

b Develops and promotes sponsor recruitment programs throughout the province.c Advises and informs the provincial chairperson of sponsor activities throughout the province.d Encourages area committee compliance with forwarding sponsor-related funds and documentation to DUC’s national head office at Oak Hammock Marsh, Manitoba.e Serves as a member of the provincial council.f Attends and participates in provincial council meetings.

RelationshipsThe provincial sponsor chairperson:

b Receives instructions from and reports to the provincial chairperson.c Co-operates with the fundraising manager(s) to co-ordinate sponsor activities in the province.

Provincial Major Gift Chairperson

Basic FunctionThe provincial major gift chairperson develops and fosters the major gift activities of DUC in the province, and is appointed by the provincial chairperson.

The term of office for this position is two years, sustained at the discretion of the provincial chair.

ResponsibilitiesThe provincial major gift chairperson:

b Works closely with the provincial chairperson, directors, volunteers and staff (specifically major gift officers) to develop and implement a major gift program in the province.


c Promotes and participates in supporting national major gift fundraising programs.d Assists in the identification, appointment and training of major gift committee members.e Identifies influential volunteers to assist in the solicitation of major gifts.f Where appropriate, represents DUC in the cultivation and negotiation of a major gift. g Understands and evaluates funding needs in the province for the purpose of matching donors to these needs. h Is knowledgeable regarding prospects and opportunities, both provincially and nationally.i Organizes and chairs major gift committee meetings on a timely basis.j Reviews the progress on existing and potential accounts at committee meetings.1) Serves on the provincial council.1! Prepares and presents verbal and written reports where appropriate on the status of major gift fundraising in the province.

RelationshipsThe provincial major gift chairperson:

b Reports to the provincial chairperson and the provincial council.c Co-operates with the provincial development manager(s) to co-ordinate major gift activities for the province.d Provides leadership to other major gift committee members.

Provincial Greenwing Chairperson

Basic FunctionThe provincial Greenwing chairperson oversees the develop-ment, implementation and continuation of Greenwing activities in the province. The provincial Greenwing chairperson is nom-inated by provincial volunteers, approved by the provincial chairperson and serves as a member of the provincial council.

The term of office for this position is a minimum of two years (renewable).

ResponsibilitiesThe provincial Greenwing chairperson:

b Works closely with the provincial Greenwing liaison to oversee the development and implementation of procedures that will result in Greenwing activities and events.c Assists with promotion of Greenwing activities to recruit new volunteers at the district, zone and committee levels.

d Attends provincial conferences to promote Greenwing activities.e Assists with the planning, organization and delivery of a provincial Greenwing camp.f Attends and participates in provincial council meetings.g Participates in conference calls with other provincial Green- wing chairpersons and the national Greenwing chairperson.h Makes suggestions and recommendations for the improve ment of the Greenwing program through the provincial Greenwing liaison.i Responds to Greenwing inquiries from volunteers and members.j Advises and informs the provincial chairperson of Greenwing activities in the province.1) Appoints volunteers to all provincial Greenwing positions and the district Greenwing chairperson position with approval of the senior provincial director. 1! Assists in the appointment of zone and area Greenwing chairpersons to co-ordinate activities in specified geographical areas in the province.1@ Identifies funds required, as well as funding opportunities, for Greenwings in their province. 1# Identifies realistic annual goals for Greenwing membership (Legacy, Project Webfoot and Greenwing raffle), Greenwing events and local Greenwing fundraising initiatives.

RelationshipsThe provincial Greenwing chairperson:

b Reports to the provincial chairperson.c Co-operates with the provincial Greenwing liaison, national Greenwing co-ordinator, national Greenwing chairperson and/or fundraising manager(s) to co-ordinate provincial activities.d Supervises the activities of district, zone and chapter Greenwing chairpersons.e Maintains contact with other youth organization leaders (Scouts, Guides, Cubs, Brownies, 4-H, etc.).

District Greenwing Chairperson

Basic FunctionThe district Greenwing chairperson develops and fosters Greenwing activities for DUC in the district, and is appointed by the provincial Greenwing chairperson with approval of other provincial volunteers.

The term of office for this position is two years, sustained at the discretion of the provincial chairperson.Responsibilities


The district Greenwing chairperson:

b Develops/implements Greenwing activities in the district.c Develops/implements Greenwing volunteer, sponsor and member recruiting programs in the district.d Attends Greenwing events as a representative of the provincial council and provides reports to the provincial Greenwing chairperson on activities attended.e Makes suggestions and recommendations for improvements to the Greenwing program through the provincial Greenwing chairperson.f Responds promptly to inquiries from volunteers/members.g Assists with the co-ordination of Greenwing volunteer training workshops.h Co-ordinates the programs of zone Greenwing volunteers in the district.i Serves as a member of the district council.j Attends and participates in district council meetings.1) Advises and informs the provincial Greenwing chairperson about activities in the district.1! Assists in the collection/forwarding of funds, registration information and reports generated by area Greenwing committees in the district.

RelationshipsThe district Greenwing chairperson:

b Reports to the provincial Greenwing chairperson.c Co-operates with the provincial Greenwing liaison, national Greenwing co-ordinator and/or fundraising manager(s) to co-ordinate district activities.d Maintains contact with local youth organization leaders (Scouts, Guides, Cubs, Brownies, 4-H, etc.).

Zone Greenwing Chairperson

Basic FunctionThe zone Greenwing chairperson develops and fosters the Greenwing activities in the zone, and is appointed by the district Greenwing chairperson.

The term of office for this position is two years, sustained at the discretion of the district chairperson.

ResponsibilitiesThe zone Greenwing chairperson:

b Develops and implements Greenwing activities in the zone.

c Develops and implements Greenwing volunteer, sponsor and member recruiting programs in the zone.d Attends events and activities as representative of the provincial council and reports to the district Greenwing chairperson on activities attended.e Makes suggestions and recommendations for the improvements to the Greenwing program through the district Greenwing chairperson.f Responds promptly to inquiries of volunteers, sponsors and members.g Assists with the co-ordination of Greenwing volunteer training workshops.h Co-ordinates the programs of the area Greenwing committees in the zone.i Serves as a member of the zone committee.j Attends and participates in the zone committee’s meetings.1) Advises and informs the district and provincial Greenwing chairpersons about Greenwing activities in the zone.1! Assists in the collection and forwarding of funds, Greenwing registration information and reports generated by the area Greenwing committees in the zone to DUC’s national office at Oak Hammock Marsh, Manitoba.

RelationshipsThe zone Greenwing chairperson:

b Reports to the provincial Greenwing chairperson, through the district Greenwing chairperson.c Co-operates with the provincial Greenwing liaison, national Greenwing co-ordinator and/or fundraising manager(s) to co-ordinate zone activities.d Maintains contact with local youth organization leaders (Scouts, Guides, Cubs, Brownies, 4-H, etc.).

Provincial Treasurer

Basic FunctionThe provincial treasurer maintains the bank account for the collection and disbursement of operating funds in the province, and maintains records of all such transactions.

This position is appointed by the provincial chairperson, with approval of the provincial council. This position must remain separate from that of the provincial chairperson (the same person cannot occupy both positions simultaneously).



ResponsibilitiesThe provincial treasurer:

b Recommends a financial institution to the provincial council for the provincial operating account.c Helps to ensure that net proceeds and reports from fundraising events held in the province are forwarded by area committees, according to established policies.d Administers applications for approval by the provincial chairperson for a grant of up to 2.5 per cent of DUC’s event-based income in the province.e Deposits the grant in the provincial operating account and makes disbursements as authorized by the provincial chairperson.f Maintains records of all expenditures made from the provincial operating account and prepares an annual disbursement record that is sent to DUC’s corporate controller.g Serves as a member of the provincial council.

RelationshipsThe provincial treasurer:

b Reports to the provincial chairperson. By policy, the same person cannot serve in both the provincial chairperson and provincial treasurer capacities simultaneously. c Deals with local bankers in the establishment of depository accounts.d Works with district, zone and area chapter chairpersons in matters relating to disbursements from the provincial operating account for district, zone and area chapter expenses.

Provincial Raffle Chairperson

Basic FunctionThe provincial raffle chairperson co-ordinates all raffles that are organized on a provincewide basis, and is appointed by the pro-vincial chairperson, with approval from the provincial council.


ResponsibilitiesThe provincial raffle chairperson:

b Prepares and submits a budget to the provincial chairperson and treasurer for approval.c Requests funds from the provincial treasurer as required in accordance with the approved budget.d Obtains appropriate merchandise for provincial raffles, with the approval of the provincial council.

e Arranges for licensing/permits as required by provincial government regulations.f Arranges for printing of provincial raffle tickets.g Arranges for a bank account to handle all funds associated with provincial raffles, with the assistance of the provincial treasurer.h Provides accurate and current accounting of provincial raffles, upon request, to any member of the provincial council.i Co-ordinates the distribution of provincial raffle tickets.j Encourages the sale of provincial raffle tickets.1) Makes suggestions for improvements to fundraising activities through the provincial chairperson.1! Responds promptly to inquiries from volunteers/members.1@ Serves as a member of the provincial council.

RelationshipsThe provincial raffle chairperson:

b Reports to the provincial chairperson.b Co-operates with the fundraising manager(s) to co-ordinate activities related to provincial raffles.b Works closely with district, zone and chapter chairpersons to promote provincial raffles.

Provincial Newsletter Editor

Basic FunctionThe provincial newsletter editor edits content for, and co-ordinates the production of, the provincial volunteer newsletter. The provincial newsletter editor is appointed by the provincial chairperson with approval of the provincial council.


ResponsibilitiesThe provincial newsletter editor:

b Prepares and submits a budget for production of the provincial volunteer newsletter to the provincial chairperson and treasurer for approval.c Requests funds from the provincial treasurer as required, in accordance with the approved budget.d Co-ordinates production of the provincial volunteer newsletter.e Obtains articles for the newsletter, with assistance from volunteers and marketing and communications staff.f Edits all newsletter material.g Assists other volunteers and staff in keeping newsletter costs minimal.h Makes suggestions for improvements to fundraising activities through the provincial chairperson.


i Responds promptly to inquiries from newsletter authors and contributors.j Serves as a member of the provincial council.1) Attends DUC functions to obtain material for the provincial newsletter.

RelationshipsThe provincial newsletter editor:

b Reports to the provincial chairperson.c Co-operates with the fundraising manager(s) and marketing and communications specialist(s) to co-ordinate activities in the province relating to the newsletter.d Maintains contact with officials of other conservation groups and provincial natural resources staff.

Provincial Sealed Bid Auction (SBA) Chairperson

Basic FunctionThe provincial Sealed Bid Auction chairperson co-ordinates volunteer-led SBA programs in the province, promotes and fosters SBA throughout the province and is appointed by the provincial chairperson, with approval of the provincial council.


ResponsibilitiesThe provincial SBA chairperson:

b Works with volunteers to promote the SBA program in the province.c Analyzes SBA records in order to promote and communicate best practices.d Communicates best practice techniques to existing and new SBA volunteers within the province.e Assists new volunteers in establishing new SBA sites.f Makes suggestions for improvements to fundraising activities through the provincial chairperson.g Responds promptly to inquiries from contributors.h Serves as a member of the provincial council.

RelationshipsThe provincial SBA chairperson:

b Reports to the provincial chairperson.c Co-operates with the fundraising manager(s) to co-ordinate activities in the province relating to the SBA program.d Maintains contact with officials of other conservation groups and provincial natural resources staff.

Provincial Recruitment Chairperson

Basic FunctionThe provincial recruitment chairperson promotes the active recruitment of new volunteers within the province, and is appointed by the provincial chairperson, with approval of the provincial council.


ResponsibilitiesThe provincial recruitment chairperson:

b Co-operates with the fundraising manager(s) to prepare and deliver a recruitment package to all new volunteers.c Co-operates with the fundraising manager(s) to prepare and deliver a volunteer recruitment package for each chapter within the province.d Assists other volunteers and staff in the recruitment of new volunteers.e Makes suggestions for improvements to volunteer recruitment activities through the provincial chairperson.f Responds promptly to inquiries from contributors.g Serves as a member of the provincial council.

RelationshipsThe provincial recruitment chairperson:

b Reports to the provincial chairperson.c Co-operates with the fundraising manager(s) to co-ordinate activities in the province relating to volunteer recruitment.d Maintains contact with officials of other conservation groups and provincial natural resources staff.


Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) is a volunteer-based organ-ization, and the hard work and dedication of the thousands of DUC volunteers from across the country makes our mission of wetland conservation possible. To show appreciation, DUC provides awards, certificates and other items to our volunteers for their service. These include:

Volunteer Appreciation AwardDUC provides every volunteer a merchandise item, free of charge, which is unique and exclusive to volunteers.

Service Awards To recognize long-service milestones, DUC offers a series of awards in appreciation for the invaluable dedication of our volunteers.

Pins – volunteers with three or more years of service receive special volunteer service pins that feature a flying duck, the number of years of service and a special engraving. Pins are available in 3, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25-year denominations.

Decoys – these waterfowl decoys feature a bronze duck sculp-ture resting on a hardwood base with a personalized engraved plaque. Decoys are available in 20-year (mallard) and 25-year (canvasback) denominations.

Certificates – framed volunteer service certificates are available in 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30-year denominations.

Conservation Service AwardThis certificate is presented to companies or individuals – includ-ing DUC volunteers – who have made significant voluntary contributions toward DUC’s wetland conservation objectives.

Leadership PlaqueLeadership plaques are intended to recognize leadership among volunteers that goes above and beyond the norm for wetlands conservation. The plaque is enhanced with a carved canvasback feather.

These are the options available for recognizing DUC volunteers for longtime service, extraordinary work and other important milestones. For more information on volunteer recognition, please speak with your fundraising manager.

2.6 | Volunteer Recognition


d Ducks Unlimited Canada Policies


Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) is Canada’s wetland conser-vation leader, and one of the most trusted conservation organ-izations in our country. We strive to maintain and steward the strong reputation our organization has worked very hard to gain over the years. To do so, we need to communicate with supporters, partners and the general public in a manner consistent with our values.

DUC’s board of directors and senior management developed a series of policies on a number of topics. Please review these policies and familiarize yourself with them. When acting as a DUC volunteer, please ensure that you follow these policies and conduct yourself and your event in accordance with them.

Ducks Unlimited Name and Logo

The Ducks Unlimited Canada name, logo and brand are copy-right protected as registered trademarks of DUC. The use of the logo and name without the written consent of the board of directors is prohibited. However, chapters are able to use the name and logo because they act on behalf of DUC.

Handling of Ducks Unlimited Canada Funds

As a DUC volunteer, it is your responsibility to ensure that all funds are carefully spent to most efficiently fulfil the purposes, goals and objectives of DUC. All funds received must also be promptly forwarded to DUC’s national head office at Oak Hammock Marsh, Manitoba. Funds collected by committees are to be forwarded to the corporate controller at DUC’s head office. The major portions of proceeds from all DUC fundraising events are to be received by the fundraising manager within 10 days of the event. The balance of the proceeds, the financial report and the list of attendees (including lists of cash donors and gift-in-kind donations) are to be received by DUC’s corporate controller no more than 30 days after the event.

Whenever possible, a cheque for at least half of the funds raised at an event and the list of event attendees should be given to the fundraising manager or another official representative of DUC the same day the event is held.

It is important that funds be secured by volunteers and a con-certed effort be made to keep expenses to a minimum to ensure

that the maximum amount of the dollars you raise will be available for wetland conservation programs.

Under no circumstances will any monies received in the name of DUC be used to defray personal costs incurred during perfor-mance of volunteer duties.

Annual Financial Plan Policy

DUC strives to maintain optimum efficiency in operations to maximize the investment made in wetland conservation.

The plan recommended by staff is first approved by the finance and audit committee of the board, then by the officers’ com-mittee of the board of directors, and finally by the full board of directors.

Variances between the plan and projected expenditures are reported to the board of directors at each board meeting.

Provincial Operating Allowances

Each provincial chairperson is authorized by the board of direc-tors to make application, in writing, to the corporate controller for an operating allowance to be used for approved purposes.

A complete accounting for the expenditure of the year’s advance must be submitted, including the beginning and ending balances in the provincial operating account, any accounts receivable or accounts payable, by March 31. As well, a priced listing of any inventories of product as of February 28 must be submitted by March 15. This inventory will be subject to audit, and further advances will not be made until these accountings are received. Accounting submissions should be made to the corporate controller.

DUC’s national head office will provide funds to the provincial committee/council, at the beginning of each year, upon receipt of a Provincial Operating Allowance – Budget Request Form. The maximum amount made available for the year will be equal to no more than 2.5 per cent of the Event Based Income and Volunteer SBA Net Income received (to May 15, for the pre-vious fiscal year) by that province through chapter events during the preceding year. Funds should be requested only as expen-ditures are being made.

3.1 | Ducks Unlimited Canada Policies


Excess funds should not be kept on hand during the year to improve corporate cash flow. The use of these funds is scrutinized by the membership and revenue committee of the board of directors and reviewed by DUC’s risk and compliance depart-ment. Any funds not used in a year will be forwarded to DUC’s national head office.

The financial records accounting for the money received and the expenditures made must be balanced to the bank’s monthly bank account statements.

Approved uses of provincial operating allowance funds for DUC chapter operations include:

b Chapter funds – cash advances to new and established chapters that do not retain sufficient funds for their events (i.e. startup funds and/or funds for outstanding chapter invoices).c Postage – approved for provincially approved programs only.d Telephone – approved for provincial chairpersons only.e Provincial newsletters.f Provincial meetings and conferences – costs incurred in excess of the proceeds from registration fees required of delegates, and other sources.g Sponsor recognition programs – sponsor print, decoy, etc.h Awards and recognition – costs should be kept to a minimum, and used only to recognize long-term or outstanding service. i Refunds – only for those deemed absolutely necessary, and approved by the provincial chairperson.j Promotional items – such as pins, hats, raffle incentives, etc., as approved by provincial council.1) Administrative support services – for provincial chairpersons only, as approved by the corporate controller.

Provincial operating allowance funds may NOT be used for:

b Fundraising functions – as all DUC events should be fundraising in nature and self-supporting.c Paid advertising to promote DUC events and programs.d Merchandise – including original or reproduced artwork. In particular, any merchandise intended for resale at events or externally, other than those approved by the board of directors, or provincial promotional items such as pins, hats, raffle incentives, etc.e National convention expenses.f Capital items (items costing $500 or more with a useful life of over one year) – these must be purchased with planned operating funds, not with provincial funds.

g Personal expenses – by policy, DUC funds cannot be used to defray personal expenses of volunteers.

By the policy outlined above, the provincial chairperson must request operating allowances in writing, and file a detailed report of the expenditures. DUC’s national head office provides a standardized format for requesting funds and for reporting ex-penditures. See section 5.2 (Event Planning and Administration).

Review of Chapter Bank Accounts

DUC reserves the right to inspect all records and statements related to any bank account set up by a DUC volunteer chapter working in the fundraising program. There should be at least two, and up to three signing authorities on the bank account. For convenience, any two out of three possible signatures may be used (the chapter treasurer represents one).

By policy of the board of directors, each chapter is required to sign a letter of direction authorizing the designated bank to give DUC full access to the chapter’s funds, if a transfer is requested, or account records if a review is deemed necessary. A new form must be signed each time there is a change in bank signing authorities. Your Fundraising Manager provides this letter of direction to every new chapter and brings it every year to one of the first reorganizational meetings of each existing chapter. Upon acceptance by the financial institution, a copy of the letter of direction must be forwarded to the corporate controller. Funds or account records may be requested at any time and will be transferred to DUC’s main operation account 90 days after the event is completed.

Volunteer Expenses

The policies regarding volunteer expenses were developed to reduce the financial burden individuals may face while carrying out their duties as DUC volunteers.

While fundraising managers and other DUC staff are available to guide and assist chapters in meeting their overall fundraising objectives, successful results can only be achieved with a well-organized and dedicated group of volunteers. Issuing receipts to volunteers for expenses incurred while working on DUC’s behalf is done to partially offset their costs and help encourage their efforts.

This does not result in increased costs to DUC, because it is based on reimbursing volunteers for expenses claimed that they have matched back to DUC as a cash donation. These offset each


other, resulting in zero cost to DUC. The amount of benefit to the volunteer depends on his/her particular tax situation. Volunteers are recognized as sponsors in the bronze, silver or gold categories when the required contribution level is met. Contributions made through claiming expenses do not count toward a volunteer’s sponsorship.

Eligible ExpensesSenior volunteers (zone chairpersons and above) are generally eligible to claim for reasonable expenses incurred while carrying out the duties of their positions. Costs associated with attending meetings called by other senior volunteers (zone, district and provincial meetings) and by DUC (national/international conventions and provincial conferences) are included in this.

Chapter volunteers are eligible to make claims for reasonable expenses incurred while attending meetings called by senior volunteers (zone, district and provincial meetings) and by DUC (national/international conventions and provincial conferences).Some typical expenses include:

• Airfare to a convention (please attach ticket to your claim).• Hotel at a convention (please attach hotel bill to your claim).• Meals at a convention (please attach all applicable receipts to your claim).• Convention registration.• Mileage to zone, district and provincial meetings (please attach a log of meetings attended and applicable mileage to your claim). DUC follows Canada Revenue Agency mileage reimbursement guidelines.• For senior volunteers, the meal portion of chapter event tickets may be claimed only when the banquet is held by an outside chapter (please attach event ticket to your claim). Home chapter event tickets are not eligible.• Volunteers running SBA easels qualify for reimbursement* of mileage incurred travelling to and from existing and potential SBA sites. Contact your Fundraising Manager for more details. *Via cheque swap and tax receipt.

Ineligible ExpensesVolunteers may only claim expenses incurred while acting on behalf of DUC. Examples of ineligible expenses include:

• Expenses incurred while engaged in activities on behalf of the senior volunteer’s home chapter (this means the senior volunteer cannot cheque swap expenses incurred while supporting his or her home chapter).• Raffle tickets or drinks purchased at another chapter’s event.• Entertainment expenses.• A spouse’s expenses if he/she is not a volunteer.

How and When To Make a ClaimAn itemized list of expenses must be prepared with all applicable sales receipts attached. Evidence of expenses is required to prevent the Canada Revenue Agency from treating the expense reim-bursement as taxable income to the volunteer.

Expenses must be itemized according to the activity (one group of expenses for the DU Inc. convention, another group for the provincial conference, etc.) and a total provided at the bottom of the list.

We request that the claim be sent along with a donation cheque for the same amount to:

Ducks Unlimited Canada c/o Corporate Controller Oak Hammock Marsh Conservation Centre P.O. Box 1160 Stonewall, Manitoba R0C 2Z0

DUC will process the claim for expenses first and issue a cheque to reimburse the volunteer for expenses. The cash donation will then be processed. Please note that spouses should submit sep-arate claims and separate donation cheques. Tax receipts must be issued to the person sending us the cheque and that person’s contribution history will be updated.

For donation cheques postmarked before December 31, a tax receipt dated for that year will be issued. The postmark on the envelope will serve as the cut-off for cheques received around the end of the year.

Tax Status

Ducks Unlimited Canada is a non-profit, charitable organization (registration number: 11888 8957 RR0001). Because of our charter and charitable registration, DUC receives privileges from federal and provincial governments and their agencies. These include being allowed to issue income tax receipts for eligible donations.

Charitable status enables DUC to put many dollars to work to conserve wetland habitat. Volunteers must take care to ensure that DUC’s charitable status is maintained and that no action endangers this status.

(See Whistleblower Policy in section 3.3)


Tax Receipts

As a registered charitable organization, DUC is entitled to issue receipts in return for contributions of money or property. However, all charitable organizations in Canada must comply with the provisions of the Income Tax Act and all regulations and bulletins issued by the Canada Revenue Agency.

All official tax receipts must be issued from DUC’s national office, based on information supplied by the local chapter. An individual’s donation must be postmarked before December 31 to be eligible for a tax receipt dated for that year.

The Canada Revenue Agency’s definition of a gift is the voluntary transfer of property without consideration. This means the donor cannot receive any material benefit (such as payment or large-scale advertising) for making a donation. This definition is fundamental in determining the eligibility of a donation for a tax receipt.

Gifts of InventoryReceipts can be issued for donations of merchandise from a business’s inventory, but the Canada Revenue Agency will deem that the donor has sold the merchandise. It will be counted as additional income that is offset by the deduction of the tax receipt. Generally speaking, it is easiest for both parties if a receipt is not issued. Volunteers should make it clear to donors that the value of the receipt must be taken into income as a sale.

Receipts can be issued for donations of merchandise from an individual’s possession; however, that individual must sign a declaration stating that they have owned that property for more than three years (declaration is included in the donor receipt book).

If the donor owned the property for less than three years, the value of the donation will be cost. Donations of $1,000 or more must include support for the cost (if owned less than three years) or an appraisal (if owned three years or more).

Gifts of ServicesA gift of services includes equipment rentals, a weekend at a resort hotel, hair styling, auctioneer service or fishing or hunting trips. These are divided into two categories:

b Gifts of service that are auction items or raffle prizes. These gifts can be receipted, but if the donor is a business, the donation would be treated as a gift of inventory. Again, volunteers should make it clear to donors that the

value of the receipt must be taken into income as a sale. Thes gifts cannot be receipted until the “winner” consumes the service.

c Gifts that are consumed and are not offered as an auction item or a raffle prize. An example would be an auctioneer’s donation of services at an event. This service is not receiptable.

For both categories of gifts of service, a receipt can be issued if the service is purchased from the donor and the donor then donates the amount paid back to DUC. Where the purchase of a service takes place, the donor will have to take the payment into his or her income, which will be offset by the deduction of the tax receipt. Caution must be taken to ensure that the amount paid for the service is legitimate and has not been artificially inflated to increase the amount of tax benefit to the donor.

The value of non-cash gifts must be determined before a receipt can be issued. Where a retail price exists for an item or service, the receipt should be issued for that value. If a retail price is not available, the fair market value should be determined by a qualified appraiser and substantiated with a certificate.

If it is not practical to obtain an appraisal, the fair market value can be determined by the selling price at auction. When the fair market value of the service cannot be determined, a receipt can be issued for out-of-pocket costs incurred by the donor in providing the service. A reasonable estimate of the total of these costs, provided by the donor in writing, will suffice as evidence (err on the conservative side).

Event TicketsA portion of the purchase price of dinner or event tickets is usually receiptable after deducting the fair market value of the meal and any other items that were given to the attendee, such as refreshments or souvenirs. A receipt can be issued if the gift portion of the ticket is greater than $10. Please consult staff for details.

General Tax Receipt PoliciesTax receipts will be issued for the following:

b All cash donations of $10 or more. c Gifts of items that are the personal property of the donor and have more than a nominal value.d A portion of the ticket price to attend a DUC fundraising event (subject to a minimum value of $10).


For businesses, a receipt will be issued upon request for a gift of service or inventory that is used in an auction or raffle when the fair market value is greater than $50. Volunteers should inform these donors that the value of the receipt must be taken into income as a sale. For this reason, it is advisable for the com-mittee to simply use the DUC donor receipt book as opposed to issuing an official tax receipt from DUC’s national office.

The volunteer chapter must prepare a list of all donations and include the following (donor receipt books provide the necessary forms to capture this information):

b Donor’s name and address (including postal code).c Donor’s contributor ID number (whenever available).d The amount or value of the donation.

Gifts of items or services must also include:

b A description of the item.c How its value was determined (auction, appraised or normal retail value).d In the case of an individual, proof that he/she has owned that property for more than three years.

If an item was appraised, a copy of the certificate should be attached to the list. When using a retail value, the committee should keep records of evidence of the retail price, such as a copy of the donation receipt.

Receipts will be issued to artists who donate 100 per cent of the proceeds from the sale of their work. Board policy discourages partial payments or commissions because of the complexity of this arrangement from a legal standpoint. If the local chapter feels it must use partial payments, then the donor must sign an agreement indicating that he/she is donating a partial interest only. This applies to all gifts from personal donations and from artists.

A tax receipt or a specific amount should not be promised to anyone unless you are absolutely sure they are legally entitled to one, and for what dollar amount.

Chapter Merchandising

Fundraising merchandise is available to chapters from three sources.

b DUC-provided event merchandise.c Preferred vendors (preapproved by DUC).

d Specially manufactured items. Chapters may sell items theyhave had manufactured specifically for fundraising. However, if the merchandise item features the DUC name or logo, it will require approval from DUC. Items that are currently merchandised by chapters include DUC hats, lapel pins, neckties, belt buckles, jackets, rings and similar goods for which there is a steady market among Canadian supporters.

A committee wishing to produce such an item must complete a Chapter Merchandise Proposal Form (see section 5.2 – Event Planning and Administration) and send it to the special projects manager at DUC’s national head office. Appropriate items are then recommended by the board of directors.

Events Reporting Policy

By policy of the board of directors, the major portion of the proceeds of all DUC fundraising events is to be received by the fundraising manager within 10 days of the event. The balance of the proceeds, the financial report and the list of attendees (including lists of cash donors and gift-in-kind donations) are to be received by DUC’s corporate controller at national head office no more than 30 days after the event.

Whenever possible, a cheque for at least half of the funds raised at an event and the list of event attendees should be given to the fundraising manager or another official representative of DUC the same day the event is held.

A reporting form titled Committee Financial Report (see section 5.2 – Event Planning and Administration) is available from your fundraising manager or DUC’s national head office.

Gift Acceptance

DUC has a Gift Acceptance Committee to review certain types of gifts. The committee includes the director of revenue and membership, the national development manager and the chair of the revenue and membership committee of the board of directors.

The following types of gifts must be reviewed and given prior approval by the Gift Acceptance Committee before being accepted by DUC:

• Gifts of real estate• Tangible personal property (including works of art) valued at $5,000 or greater


• Partnership interests and other property interests (e.g. shares in privately owned companies) not readily negotiable or valued• Residual interest gifts of any kind• Charitable remainder trusts• Term life insurance policies

Gifts that do not require approval include: gifts of cash; readily marketable, publicly traded securities; life insurance policies with cash value; stripped bonds; and reinsured gift annuities. If there is any concern surrounding a gift (e.g. unreasonable donor expectations), any gift can be referred to the Gift Acceptance Committee.

Donated Securities

Contributions to DUC are sometimes made in the form of stocks, bonds and other securities. DUC maintains a general policy of selling such donated securities immediately, through agents authorized by resolution of the board of directors. It is imperative that a copy of the signed authorization from the donor, which authorizes their financial advisor to transfer the shares to DUC, be sent to the Corporate Controller.

Gifts of Real Estate

Gifts of real estate for habitat purposes will only be accepted after approval through DUC’s standard criteria procedure for purchasing land. Other gifts of real estate will be converted to cash.

Planned Gifts

Planned gifts (such as wills, trusts and bequests) can be made to DUC simply by using the full corporate name “Ducks Unlimited Canada” and by specifying the amount of the gift in the document.

A gift for tax purposes is a voluntary transfer of property without valuable consideration, and must meet these qualifications:

b The property is transferred by a donor to DUC.c The transfer must be voluntary. Any legal obligation on the donor would cause the transfer to lose its status as a gift.d The transfer is made without expectation of return.

Other Gifts

A contribution of services (time or skills) does not qualify. A charity may pay for the services and later accept the return of

all or a portion of the payment as a gift, so long as it is returned voluntarily. There are some exceptions:

b The difference between the purchase price of a ticket to attend a DUC event and the fair market value of the event is considered to be a gift and a tax receipt could be issued.c When the price of admission to a dinner includes door prizes, gifts, entertainment, etc., there are certain circum stances that dictate if tax receipts can be issued:

• If the total value of door prizes, gifts, entertainment, etc. is 80 per cent or more of the price of the ticket, a tax receipt cannot be issued.

• If the value of door prizes, gifts, entertainment, etc. is less than 80 per cent, but more than $75 or 10 per cent of the ticket price, a tax receipt may be issued for the value of the ticket (minus the value of door prizes, gifts and entertainment, etc.).

• If the value of door prizes, gifts and entertainment, etc. is less than $75 or 10 per cent of the ticket price, a tax receipt may be issued for the full value of the ticket price.

d Property sold to a charity at less than the fair market valuewould not qualify as a donation of the remaining value. For example, a print valued at $250 and sold to a charity for $100 would not qualify the donor to receive a tax receipt for the remaining $150. The partial consideration for the print invalidates the transaction as a partial gift.

Insurance Coverage

DUC has numerous insurance policies to cover all aspects of our operations. A Comprehensive General Liability policy covers DUC officers, directors, employees, volunteers and any persons for whom DUC has responsibility for placing insurance.

Sale of Liquor

The board of directors has approved the following policy regarding the sale of liquor:

Chapter functions will avoid specific involvement with the sale or dispensing of liquor to quests. When the cash bar system is used, the hotel, restaurant or site of the event must control and have full responsibility for the sale of liquor.


Shared Events

The explicit purpose of holding a fundraising event is to raise money for wetland conservation. DUC’s fundraising events may not be held in conjunction with, or for the purpose of fund-raising for any other organization or purpose.

Any exceptions to this policy must be approved by the chapter chairperson and chapter, or the board of directors, with per-mission from the national manager of events and respective provincial chairperson.

Serving Wild Game at Events

If any wild game is served at a DUC event, it must be a gift of a legal possession limit by a person or persons who have taken game in the scope of the applicable regulations. If any game is to be served, it must be exclusive of any charge, and no informa-tion pieces should reflect the sale of any such wild game.

Please consult local, provincial and federal regulations in your area to ensure full compliance with all applicable laws before planning to serve wild game at your event.

Note: Serving migratory waterfowl at any event where a ticket price is charged for the meal is prohibited.

Taxidermy

By law, mounted migratory birds or birds of prey must not be sold. Please consult local, provincial and federal regulations in your area to ensure full compliance with all applicable laws before planning to sell any mounted specimens.

Waterfowl or Game Law Violations

DUC is a conservation organization with a reputation to maintain in that field. All volunteers should ensure that they are completely familiar with all game law regulations. Any volunteer convicted of any violation of any game laws shall be liable to disciplinary action by the officers’ committee of DUC’s board of directors.

Position on Hunting

DUC is strongly supported by both hunters and non-hunters. These people recognize the value of wetlands and their associated habitats, and that wetland conservation has many benefits to offer Canadians.

DUC supports the sustainable use and harvest of renewable resources based on sound science. DUC supports waterfowl hunting, when conducted in an ethical and sustainable manner, as a legitimate and acceptable use of a renewable resource.

DUC does not direct resources toward the influence of firearm or hunting legislation unless the legislation is clearly and directly related to waterfowl habitat conservation.

If you have any questions regarding DUC’s policies, please contact your fundraising manager.


Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) is the most trusted and respected conservation organization in Canada. We strive to maintain and steward the strong reputation our organization has worked very hard to gain over the years. As a result, DUC has a “code of conduct” for all employees and volunteers, to ensure our actions are in alignment with our organization’s values and standards.

DUC Code of Conduct

DUC is a national, private, non-profit charitable organization dedicated to conserving, restoring and managing wetlands and their associated habitats for North America’s waterfowl, other wildlife and people.

DUC is the most trusted and respected conservation organi-zation in Canada. We strive to maintain and steward the strong reputation our organization has worked very hard to gain over the years. As a result, DUC has a “code of conduct” for all directors, staff and volunteers, to ensure our actions are in alignment with our organization’s values and standards.

DUC’s board of directors defines the ethical values and desired behaviours within the company through a corporate code of conduct. The code of conduct provides insight to the expect-ations of directors, staff and volunteers with regards to respect, integrity, compliance with laws and regulations, confidentiality of organization information, accountability of actions, human rights and environmental issues, and the desired public image of DUC.

It is essential that the actions of directors, staff and volunteers are consistent with stated values and are in the best interest of the organization. All directors, staff and volunteers are required to read and understand the code of conduct.

The implementation of a code of conduct is useful only when proper communication is made to those responsible for following the code. Conducting a training session or presentation on the code of conduct and other related issues will reinforce the actions and behaviours valued within the organization.

DUC’s Vision and Values That Tie Into the Code of Conduct

DUC’s strategic plan outlines a number of key points that provide guidance for establishing a code of conduct. DUC’s mission is to conserve wetlands and associated habitats for the benefit

of North America’s waterfowl, which in turn provides healthy environments for wildlife and people. The following are some of the key points outlined in the strategic plan:

Vision

• Maintaining a high level of service and integrity in our relationships with supporters.• Fostering a culture that promotes learning in order to continually enhance the effectiveness of DUC conservation programs and to constantly improve the way we conduct all aspects of our business.• Ensuring that our conservation programs are guided by sound science and based on the best available information.• Being an innovative, credible and cost-effective organization, which generates financial, political and moral support from the general public, the private sector and governments.• Delivering habitat programs that are ecosystem-oriented and sensitive to regional wildlife needs.• Addressing emerging environmental issues affecting waterfowl habitat.

Values

• We use financial and other resources entrusted to us in an efficient and effective manner with full accountability.• Functioning with fairness, integrity, sensitivity and a commitment to a high level of service is vital in our dealing with our supporters and in all our business relationships. • Private landholders are vital to our mission; we recognize their contributions and the need to respect their individual interests and unique concerns in the implementation of our conservation programs.• The ethical and sustainable recreational harvest of waterfowl is a legitimate and acceptable use of a renewable resource.

DUC’s code of conduct mandates:

Respect

• We treat each other with respect and dignity regardless of role or individual differences.• We maintain a safe and fair work environment.• We value our people in all capacities and their personal commitment to delivering quality services. • We encourage co-operation, learning and growth in all those who work with us.

3.2 | Ducks Unlimited Canada Code of Conduct


• We strive to understand and respond to the needs of those inside and outside of DUC.

Honesty and Integrity

• We are always fair and honest in our dealings even when others would not know of our actions.• We will not turn a blind eye and condone the breaches of conduct of others which involve DUC.• We believe honesty includes not engaging in coercive or misleading practices or falsifying or wrongfully withholding information.• We do not place ourselves in situations in which our private interests could conflict directly or indirectly with our obligations to DUC. • We do not accept benefits such as gifts or entertainment when the situation could be seen as creating an obligation.• We do not act in ways which may cause others to question our loyalty to DUC.• We insist upon honesty and integrity, not only with one another, but also with all stakeholders.• We provide truth in advertising.• We shall be truthful in all promotions and publish only accurate information about DUC operations.

Confidentiality and Discretion

• We use DUC property responsibly and in the best interests of the organization and its reputation.• We do not use DUC funds to provide unreasonable benefits such as gifts or entertainment for ourselves or others.• We use DUC property only for the organization’s business purposes.• We do not disclose confidential information without proper authorization.• We exercise confidentiality and discretion in the use of information proprietary to DUC.• We avoid any conflict of interest which may interfere with the best interests of DUC.

Adherence to Laws and Regulations

• We respect the law and act accordingly.• We respect the laws, customs and business practices of the countries in which we operate, but do not compromise the principles embodied in this code.• We advise the appropriate authority immediately of any breach of the law that relates to DUC activities.• In interpreting the law, we adopt a course which preserves integrity.

• We will ensure regulatory compliance related to all activities involving DUC.• We will deal with parties with whom we contract in an intelligent and co-operative manner in accordance with contractual relations, written or implied.

Accountability

• We are responsible for our actions and accountable for their consequences.• We take personal responsibility for all issues over which we have control and the manner in which these are achieved.• We will conduct ourselves at all times in a manner which will reflect well upon DUC and the conservation and charitable sector.• We conduct business in such a manner as to maintain good will within the conservation sector, and to maintain and increase the confidence of volunteers, members and the general public.

Non-discrimination

• We value and promote diversity at DUC with our staff, volunteers, members and the general public.• We will foster a non-discriminatory work and business environment in promoting a climate of harmony and tolerance.• DUC has established a non-harassment policy on the basis of race, colour, gender, age, sexual orientation, national or social origin, religion or disability.

Self Test

Self-testing questions help board members, staff and volunteers identify whether or not an issue is in compliance with the organization’s code of conduct. b Is the action legally and technically correct? If not, then there is no question the action should not be considered.c If the action is legally and technically correct, would it appear to be correct in the eyes of the board of directors, staff, volunteers, members and the general public? For example, how would it look in a newspaper article?d Is it consistent with DUC’s values?e Do you feel good about your answers?f Would you want to be treated the same way by those affected by the action?

Please review this code of conduct carefully. If you have any questions, please contact your fundraising manager.


The Whistleblower Policy was created to provide direction to DUC stakeholders in the communication of concerns regarding questionable financial or operational matters. Whistleblower incidents can be reported to DUC’s Manager, Risk & Comp-liance, in confidence, using the online Whistleblower Form.

A “whistleblower incident” is when any stakeholder has reported a financial or operational incident of concern. The Whistleblower Policy was created to provide direction to DUC stakeholders in the communication of concerns regarding questionable financial or operational matters.

Examples of whistleblower incidents may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Misrepresenting program budgets.• “Side deals” or “under the table” dealings with contractors for personal benefit. • Receiving personal kickbacks or significant gifts (over $100) from contractors or vendors which could create bias in the tendering process.

DUC believes in the value of responsible, sound governance practices and supports that belief through action and policy. Along with other governance innovations, the Whistleblower Policy will ensure that DUC continues to demonstrate due diligence in its operations.

All whistleblower incidents shall be communicated and resolved using the Company’s prescribed procedures. Each whistleblower incident will be treated with confidentiality and due care. It is DUC’s policy that the Whistleblower will not be negatively affected in any way. DUC recognizes the significance of this policy, and as such will not protect Whistleblowers who under-mine the policy by reporting intentionally false accusations.

A Whistleblower Form is used to communicate appropriate whistleblower incidents. The Whistleblower’s identity will be protected, and they can choose to remain anonymous. If a name is provided, the Whistleblower will be contacted within 10 days and will be notified of planned follow-up action. Please read the complete Whistleblower Policy before submitting.

Following an investigation, each whistleblower incident will be rated according to policy to determine their validity, significance, ability to be proven. Appropriate action will be taken and all reported incidents will be documented and logged. The results will be communicated to the Whistleblower, if a name was provided.

The complete Whistleblower Policy and Whistleblower Form can be accessed online at www.ducks.ca in “Chapter Materials” through the volunteer log-in, or by contacting your Fundraising Manager.

3.3 | Whistleblower Policy


e Revenue and Membership


Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) is a national, private, non-profit charitable organization. As a result, DUC relies on our Canadian fundraising efforts to generate the revenue needed for wetland conservation. Our membership program is an important part of DUC’s fundraising work.

Members are people who pay to belong to our organization. In fact, all the people who attend our fundraising events receive complimentary memberships for buying an event ticket. The cost of an annual membership is $35. In return, they receive:

• one-year subscription to Conservator, DUC’s national magazine• attractive window decals• special product offers and opportunities exclusive to DUC members• a subscription to the e-DUC electronic newsletter• a tax receipt (these can only be issued for non-event memberships)

DUC also has a youth membership program called Greenwing. For just $15, Greenwing youth members receive:

• a one-year subscription to Puddler (Junior Greenwings, ages 12 and under) or Conservator (Senior Greenwings, ages 13-17)• a Marsh World wetland guide• Greenwing activity book• stickers and decals• Greenwing certificate

DUC’s membership program is important because:

• Membership fees are a strong fundraising program• Members are supporters of DUC and our cause, representing “political capital” that gives DUC leverage when working with government and other organizations.

Direct Mail Program

Our membership is grown in a variety of ways (website, public service announcements, etc.), but the most significant member-ship growth comes through our direct mail programs. DUC’s manager of membership marketing co-ordinates the development and distribution of mailings that target people who are likely to support DUC. These packages usually contain a letter, a request to become a member and a special offer or incentive to join DUC (such as a vest or mini-print). These programs have been very successful in recent years and have led to great increases in DUC membership.

Membership Policy

It is important to note that it is DUC policy not to lend, exchange, sell or rent our membership lists to any other organizations, companies, magazines, etc., and we would not do so without the consent of our members. The only circumstances under which someone would be given access to DUC’s member-ship would be if a partner organization is offering unique products/services which may be of great value or benefit to our members, or if the partner is supporting wetland conservation by donating a percentage of proceeds from a product or service towards wetland conservation. These partnerships provide a significant amount of revenue in support of DUC’s conservation work, and much of it is contingent on access to our membership. For example, MBNA Canada donates a portion of all purchases made with DUC MasterCards back to DUC. In return, they are allowed to send a certain number of mailings to our members. The result is a mutually beneficial arrangement that provides funding for wetland conservation.

If you have any questions about DUC’s membership programs, please ask your fundraising manager, or contact DUC Membership Services at 1-866-384-DUCK (3825).

4.1 | Ducks Unlimited Canada’s Membership Program


Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) works hard to raise the money we need to continue conserving, restoring and managing wetlands and their associated habitats in Canada. Among DUC’s key fundraising initiatives are our retail programs. These include the following:

b Online Store – found at www.ducks.ca, this store allows people to purchase DUC merchandise. There is also a store specifically for DUC volunteers, which is accessible through your volunteer service station.

c Online Auction – also located at www.ducks.ca, the auction features new products, on a daily basis, for the auction block. People can visit the auction and place their bids online.

d Sealed Bid Auction (SBA) – the SBA program places DUC art print easels in local businesses to get people to bid on prints, which are then sold to the highest bidder. Much of this exciting program is managed by volunteers like you.

Retail programs like these not only raise a significant amount of money for DUC’s wetland conservation work, but through the merchandise they sell or auction, help to increase the presence of DUC’s logo and brand in Canada.

It is important to note that the Online Auction and Online Store programs do not sell or auction merchandise or prints that are available at our current fundraising events. These two programs focus only on merchandise that was featured at events from years past, or that is not available at our events, to prevent competition with our own event fundraising program.

Volunteers are particularly important in driving the SBA program by managing easels at sites in their communities. If you would like to get involved in the SBA program, or would like more information on these programs, contact your fundraising man-ager or call DUC’s head office at 1-800-665-DUCK (3825).

4.2 | Ducks Unlimited Canada’s Retail Programs


Ducks Unlimited Canada’s (DUC) corporate relations program, called the Corporate Partners Program, is an extension of DUC’s long standing history of working cooperatively with others. Through this program, DUC provides cause-marketing solu-tions to companies seeking credible and authentic marketing opportunities that will help them communicate their company’s commitment to being responsible and supporting environmental stewards.

Solutions are found through a variety of partnership platforms including corporate sponsorship programs, affinity membership programs, product licensing and various forms of retail promo-tions, all designed to meet specific marketing needs that provide timely measurable results. Each is a distinctive and meaningful marketing experience each company, along with employees and customers, are proud to be a part of.

And cause-marketing works. Research clearly shows that con-sumers will conscientiously support one company’s product or service over that of another if they know that their support of that product/service will in turn generate support for a social cause or effort that they personally believe in and support. In fact, research suggests that the most popular method of sup-porting an organization or cause is to purchase a retail product endorsed by the organization.

Corporate partnerships are important to DUC. They not only help to generate an important revenue stream but perhaps just as importantly, these types of partnerships help to increase the public’s appreciation and awareness of the overall importance of wetlands as a result of the DUC logo (and key message) being prominently incorporated into our corporate partner’s day to day sales and marketing efforts.

Examples of the different types of corporate partnerships include:

b Corporate Sponsorship programs are key strategic partnerships with companies that have helped to set the bar high for others to aspire to through their efforts to generate awareness of the value of wetlands and in helping raise money for wetland conservation, research and education. Industry leading private sector companies such as Enbridge Gas, Royal Bank of Canada, Giant Tiger Stores, Yamaha, MBNA Canada Bank and Husky Energy are just a few.

c Affinity membership programs, where DUC-labeled products and services are marketed specifically to DUC members, include such programs as the highly successful DUC MasterCard program and Barton Cotton’s DUC Christmas card offering- now in its 19 year.

d Licensing programs, such as Russell Stover Candies’ popular DUC Holiday Collectors tin, are agreements where a percentage of sales of a specific product(s) are donated to DUC for wetland and wildlife conservation.

e Promotional programs, such as Banrock Station Winery’s 50 cents per bottle for DUC promotion, are typically consumer product promotions which run for a designated period of time.

In all cases, no DUC funds are used to support or market any of these partnership programs – each DUC partner is responsible for covering all costs associated with executing their respective DUC partnership program.

DUC is grateful for each and every corporate partnership and proudly recognizes each partner through a series of marketing and communication tools and activities.

For more information on DUC’s Corporate Partners program, please contact your fundraising manager or Stephen Tonning, national manager of corporate relations, at 506-458-8848.

4.3 | Ducks Unlimited Canada’s Corporate Relations Program


As a non-profit charitable organization, Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) relies on our Canadian fundraising efforts to generate the revenue needed for wetland conservation. Our major gift sponsorship, major gift and planned giving programs are important parts of DUC’s fundraising work.

DUC’s major gift program involves any donation, of money (sponsorships) or products or services (gift-in-kind), over a value of $5,000. In addition to major gifts, there are also regular sponsorships (under $5,000).

Regular Sponsorships

There are three levels of regular DUC sponsorship:

b Gold ($1,000)c Silver ($500)d Bronze ($250)

Every sponsor receives a lapel pin, certificate, recognition in DUC’s annual report and tax receipt appropriate to their sponsorship, as well as full membership benefits.

Major Sponsorships

A major sponsorship is any donation to DUC of $5,000 or more. Typically, contributions are made within five years. Major sponsorships are significant donations, and are very important to DUC. There are 12 levels of major sponsorship:

b Diamond Legacy Sponsor ($1,000,000)c Platinum Legacy Sponsor ($750,000)d Gold Legacy Sponsor ($500,000)e Legacy Sponsor ($250,000)f Benefactor Sponsor ($100,000)g Diamond Heritage Sponsor ($75,000)h Heritage Sponsor ($50,000)i Diamond Sponsor-in-Perpetuity ($40,000)j Sponsor-in-Perpetuity ($30,000)1) Diamond Life Sponsor ($20,000)1! Life Sponsor ($10,000)1@ Platinum Sponsor ($5,000)

Every major sponsor receives a lapel pin, a plaque or decoy, recognition in DUC’s annual report, tax receipt appropriate to their sponsorship, and full membership benefits. Major sponsors

are also eligible for other forms of recognition, depending on their sponsorship level. For more details, see section 4.6 (Donor and Sponsor Recognition).

Gifts-in-KindMajor sponsorships can also take the form of gifts-in-kind, which is a donation of products and/or services instead of money. These types of donations are also called Teal Sponsorships. There are nine levels of gift-in-kind sponsorships based on the value of the donated products/services:

b Diamond Teal ($1,000,000)c Platinum Teal ($500,000)d Emerald Teal ($250,000)e Gold Teal ($100,000)f Silver Teal ($25,000)g Bronze Teal ($10,000)H Pewter Teal ($5,000)

Every Teal sponsor receives a lapel pin, a plaque or decoy, recogni-tion in DUC’s annual report, tax receipt appropriate to their sponsorship, and full membership benefits. Teal sponsors are also eligible for other forms of recognition, depending on their sponsorship level. For more details, see section 4.6 (Donor and Sponsor Recognition).

Planned Giving

Planned giving is a way of bringing a donor’s financial plans together with their desire to contribute to organizations and causes that are important to them. It allows donors to make a substantial gift with little or no impact on their current financial situation, and is an important part of estate planning.

DUC’s planned giving recognition program is known as the Feather Society. Through this program, planned gifts can be arranged now, for fulfilment in the future, and can result in important tax savings for the donor in the present. Giving options include (but are not limited to):

• will bequests (gifts of money or land)• naming DUC as a beneficiary of a life insurance policy• gifts of securities• charitable remainder trusts• gift plus annuity

4.4 | Sponsorships and Planned Giving


When tax planning is important, there are other planned giving options that provide benefits to DUC and the donor, either during or after the donor’s lifetime. For example, giving a gift of appreciated securities to DUC, rather than selling the shares then donating the proceeds, can offer a very significant reduc-tion in a person’s capital gains tax.

Younger donors often donate through life insurance. While there are various ways to structure this, the end result can be a very significant donation with a minimal cost, compared to directly funding the gift.

For more information on planned giving, please contact your fundraising manager or call 1-800-665-DUCK (3825).


Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) volunteers are an integral part of our fundraising activities, and have enjoyed outstanding success over the years. One way that volunteers can build on that success is to ask people at events and in communities to become major sponsors.

Any solicitation of individuals or organizations to become sponsors or supporters of DUC should first be discussed with

your fundraising manager or development manager. When soliciting major sponsorships, your provincial development manager can help you with researching your prospects and creating customized proposals.

For more information on soliciting for major sponsorships, or to get in touch with your provincial development manager, contact your fundraising manager or call 1-800-665-DUCK (3825).

4.5 | Soliciting Sponsorships


As a non-profit charitable organization, Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) relies on the support of our members, donors and sponsors. In order to cultivate and build on these relationships, it’s important that we recognize our supporters appropriately. To that end, DUC has established specific guidelines for recognizing our supporters, based on their level of membership, donation or sponsorship:

Member Category Support Level ($) Benefits/Recognition

Contributing non-member up to $34.99 (cash) automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) thank you letter

Contributing non-member (GIK) up to $99.99 (gift-in-kind) automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request)

Regular member (adult) $35 to $99.99 (cash) automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Conservator subscription member card window decals e-DUC subscription

Greenwing member (youth) $15 to $299 (cash) automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Conservator or Puddler subscription Greenwing certificate wildlife decals activity book Marsh World guidebook DUC wristband

Legacy Greenwing member (youth) $300 and up (cash) automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) full Greenwing membership to age 18 full adult membership from age 18-21 invitation to Legacy Greenwing project dedication

4.6 | Donor and Sponsor Recognition


Gift-in-Kind Category Support Level ($) Benefits/Recognition

Pewter Teal $5,000 to $9,999 (gift-in-kind) Pewter Teal decoy Pewter Teal lapel pin thank you letter automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Annual Report recognition full adult membership benefits For eligible gifts see pages 33-34

Bronze Teal $10,000 to $24,999 (gift-in-kind) Bronze Teal decoy Bronze Teal lapel pin thank you letter automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Annual Report recognition full adult membership benefits For eligible gifts see pages 33-34

Silver Teal $25,000 to $99,999 (gift-in-kind) Silver Teal decoy Silver Teal lapel pin thank you letter automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Annual Report recognition full adult membership benefits For eligible gifts see pages 33-34

Golden Teal $100,000 to $249,999 (gift-in-kind) Golden Teal decoy Golden Teal lapel pin thank you letter automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Annual Report recognition full adult membership benefits For eligible gifts see pages 33-34

Emerald Teal $250,000 to $499,999 (gift-in-kind) Emerald Teal decoy Emerald Teal lapel pin thank you letter automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Annual Report recognition full adult membership benefits For eligible gifts see pages 33-34

Platinum Teal $500,000 to $999,999 (gift-in-kind) Platinum Teal framed shadow box with full set of Teal Teal lapel pins (personalized) Platinum Teal lapel pin thank you letter automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Annual Report recognition full adult membership benefits For eligible gifts see pages 33-34


Gift-in-Kind Category Support Level ($) Benefits/Recognition

Diamond Teal $1,000,000 and up (gift-in-kind) Diamond Teal framed shadow box with full set of Teal lapel pins (personalized) Diamond Teal lapel pin thank you letter automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Annual Report recognition full adult membership benefits For eligible gifts see pages 33-34

Sponsorship Category Support Level ($) Benefits/Recognition

Bronze Sponsor (regular) $100 to $499 (cash) Bronze Sponsor lapel pin Bronze Sponsor certificate thank you letter automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Annual Report recognition full adult membership benefits

Silver Sponsor (regular) $500 to $999 (cash) Silver Sponsor lapel pin Silver Sponsor certificate thank you letter automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Annual Report recognition full adult membership benefits

Gold Sponsor (regular) $1,000 to $4,999 (cash) Gold Sponsor lapel pin Gold Sponsor certificate thank you letter automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Annual Report recognition full adult membership benefits

Platinum Sponsor (major) $5,000 to $9,999 (cash) Platinum Sponsor crystal sculpture Platinum Sponsor lapel pin thank you letter automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Annual Report recognition full adult membership benefits (in perpetuity)

Life Sponsor (major) $10,000 to $19,999 (cash) Life Sponsor decoy or plaque Life Sponsor lapel pin thank you letter automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Annual Report recognition full adult membership benefits (in perpetuity)



Diamond Life Sponsor (major) $20,000 to $29,999 (cash) Diamond Life Sponsor decoy or plaque Diamond Life Sponsor lapel pin thank you letter automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Annual Report recognition full adult membership benefits (in perpetuity)

Sponsor-in-Perpetuity (major) $30,000 to $39,999 (cash) Sponsor-in-Perpetuity decoy or plaque Sponsor-in-Perpetuity lapel pin thank you letter automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Annual Report recognition full adult membership benefits (in perpetuity)

Diamond Sponsor-in-Perpetuity $40,000 to $49,999 (cash) Diamond Sponsor-in-Perpetuity decoy or plaque(major) Diamond Sponsor-in-Perpetuity lapel pin thank you letter automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Annual Report recognition full adult membership benefits (in perpetuity)

Heritage Sponsor (major) $50,000 to $74,999 (cash) Heritage Sponsor plaque Heritage Sponsor lapel pin thank you letter automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Annual Report recognition full adult membership benefits (in perpetuity)

Diamond Heritage Sponsor (major) $75,000 to $99,999 (cash) Diamond Heritage Sponsor plaque Diamond Heritage Sponsor lapel pin thank you letter automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Annual Report recognition full adult membership benefits (in perpetuity)

Benefactor Sponsor (major) $100,000 to $249,999 (cash) Benefactor Sponsor plaque Benefactor Sponsor lapel pin thank you letter automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Annual Report recognition full adult membership benefits (in perpetuity)

Legacy Sponsor (major) $250,000 to $499,999 (cash) Legacy Sponsor plaque Legacy Sponsor lapel pin thank you letter automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Annual Report recognition full adult membership benefits (in perpetuity)



Gold Legacy Sponsor (major) $500,000 to $749,999 (cash) Gold Legacy Sponsor plaque Gold Legacy Sponsor lapel pin thank you letter automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Annual Report recognition full adult membership benefits (in perpetuity)

Platinum Legacy Sponsor (major) $750,000 to $999,999 (cash) Platinum Legacy Sponsor plaque Platinum Legacy Sponsor lapel pin thank you letter automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Annual Report recognition full adult membership benefits (in perpetuity)

Diamond Legacy Sponsor (major) $1,000,000 and up (cash) Diamond Legacy Sponsor plaque Diamond Legacy Sponsor lapel pin thank you letter automatic tax receipt ($10 or less, upon request) Annual Report recognition full adult membership benefits (in perpetuity)


f Tools and Resources


Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) relies on the success of our volunteer-driven fundraising efforts to provide the dollars needed for wetland conservation in Canada. To help grow the success of these programs, DUC has provided a number of tools and resources for volunteers to use in promoting their fundraising events to increase the number of people attending and the amount of money raised at their events.

Printed Resources

DUC provides the following printed materials, which you can customize to your fundraising event.

Templates can be accessed online at www.ducks.ca in “Chapter Materials” through the volunteer log-in, or by contacting your Fundraising Manager.

b Event posters – these are full-colour posters that you can fill in and post in your area/community to help increase the number of people who attend your event.

c Event postcards – these are full-colour postcards that you can mail to people who have attended your event in the past to encourage them to attend your upcoming event.

d Event tickets – the tickets for your event can be printed on these full-colour ticket templates. To write the information for your event tickets, please use the Event Ticket Content Form (see section 5.2 – Event Planning and Administration).

e Event program covers – bind these full-colour covers to your event programs. To write the information for your event program, use the Event Program Content Form (see section 5.2 – Event Planning and Administration).

f Media release templates – DUC has media release templates for you to use in promoting your event to local media. Simply fill in the blank areas on the template with information about your event, include a contact person selected from your chapter as a spokesperson, print off the media release and send it to media in your area/community.

g Chapter websites – DUC offers an easy-to-use system for chapters to use in building their own websites to promote their events. To access this system, contact your fundraising manager.

h Event Announcement PSAs – As a non-profit charity, DUC is eligible to receive free placement of public service announcements in the local media. DUC has provided a sample template of an event announcement for you.

5.1 | Event Promotion


Event fundraising forms the backbone of all Ducks Unlimited Canada’s (DUC) Canadian revenue programs. When DUC volunteers are successful at their events, conservation is successful. DUC offers a number of tools and resources designed to guide you in planning and administering a DUC fundraising event efficiently and effectively to help maximize your success.

These resources can be accessed online at www.ducks.ca in “Chapter Materials” through the volunteer log-in, or by contacting your Fundraising Manager.

Event Planning Resources

b Event Planning Guide – this simple booklet outlines basic procedures and valuable tips for organizing a DUC fundraising event.

c DUC Grace script – this is a short script for saying Grace before your banquet begins.

d Merchandise order forms – use these forms to order merchandise for your event

e Raffle ticket order form – use this form to order tickets for any raffles you have planned for your event.

f Event program content template – this template should be used to write the content for event programs (covers are printed and provided by DUC).

g Event ticket content template – use this template to write the content for event tickets (tickets are printed and provided by DUC).

Event Administration Resources

i Firearms transfer procedure form – this document outlines all the rules and procedures governing the transfer of ownership and possession of firearms in Canada. Please review this form and be sure to follow these rules carefully.

j Live auction control sheet – this is used to keep track of bids, bidders and payment options for live auctions.

1) Silent auction control sheet – use this sheet to keep track of bids, bidders and payment options for silent auctions.

1! Event report/planning form – this form can be used to record financial estimate of the event and to record observations for what worked well and what needs improvement at next year’s event.

General Resources

1@ Chapter t-shirt order form – use this form to order t-shirts for your chapter members.

Important Advertising Information

Before You Advertise Your Event:

Ducks Unlimited Canada is a private, non profit, charitable conservation organization. As such, DUC qualifies to receive Public Service Announcements (PSA) free of charge. Every dollar saved is a dollar more for wetland, waterfowl conservation.

Advertising your Event (as it benefits a charitable organization) is considered a PSA. Therefore, it qualifies to be advertised free of charge.

At all times, we must strive to get all PSA placements free of charge. DUC has free placement agreements in place with many media outlets and nothing erodes a relationship faster than when one company learns that another company is being paid for the same service.

Ask For FREE Placement (Preferred Method)When submitting your event announcements to the newspapers, ensure you:• TellthenewspapersthatDucksUnlimitedCanadaisa private, non-profit, charitable organization• StressthatyoureventannouncementisaPSA(public service announcement)• Tellthemyouhaveready-to-useMacfiles(lessworkfor the papers)• Ask them to print your event announcement free of charge

About Recognition (Secondary Measure only)Only if the newspaper will not give Ducks Unlimited Canada the placement for free, then you can ask them to provide the

5.2 | Event Planning and Administration


newspaper ad in exchange for recognition at the local event. (ie included in the loop tool). It is very important to note that only if the value of the ad exceeds $5000 (Teal Sponsorship) do they qualify for recognition in the Event Program.

Bartering (Last Resort only)If unsuccessful with either of the above – and keeping in mind that Ducks Unlimited Canada will not pay full price for any placements – DU Canada will then consider the following in order of priority:• Asktopayforthecostofthead–not the marked-up “retail” (published) rate• Askfora50%discountoffthe“retail”rate• Askforanon-profitrate

If you’re unsure or need help, don’t hesitate to call your Marketing and Communications representative as they are there to assist you.


The success of the volunteer-driven event fundraising program is absolutely critical to Ducks Unlimited Canada’s (DUC) wetland conservation work. Under the five-year business plan, new goals have been set to grow the event fundraising program in Canada.

A key part of our success will come from recruiting new volunteers. New volunteers will:

• bring new ideas to the table• help shoulder the workload• add new skills to your volunteer chapter• organize new fundraising events • increase your success

To help you recruit new volunteers into your chapter, DUC offers a variety of resources.

These resources can be accessed online at www.ducks.ca in “Chapter Materials” through the volunteer log-in, or by contacting your Fundraising Manager.

b Volunteer recruitment booklet – this booklet, written and designed specifically for DUC volunteer chapters, is filled with tips and guidelines to help you bring new volunteers into your fold.

c Volunteer recruitment brochure – this brochure is targeted at the general public and is for you to distribute within your area/community and use on SBA easels.

d Volunteer recruitment posters – there are two versions of this poster for you to post in your area/community. Please note that one of these posters has national contact information, and one has space for you to fill in local contact information.

e Public service announcements – these are small ads that you can send to your local newspapers and ask them to run free of charge as public service announcements.

f Volunteer recruitment tent cards – these tent cards are to be placed at table settings at events, to remind attendees of the need for volunteers. Master of Ceremony speaking notes are available.

g Asks for volunteers – on select DUC marketing materials (ie New Member Survey, Membership Renewal Shells, Event Loop Tools, Event Script Cards) DUC has created specific messaging to ask for volunteers. These potential volunteers are all captured in the Potential Volunteer Database. Ask your Fundraising Manager for potential volunteers in your area.

For more guidance on how to recruit new volunteers in your area, contact your fundraising manager.

5.3 | Volunteer Recruitment

volunteer operating manual - ducks unlimited canada | conserving

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