Esquimalt-Saanich-Sooke | Volunteer Tax Credit Policy for Service to Registered Organizations

Objective of the Volunteer Tax Credit Policy for Service to Registered Organizations

To drastically increase volunteer participation in Esquimalt-Saanich-Sooke by offering substantial, highly attractive tax credits to those who dedicate their time to registered organizations. This policy will reward volunteers handsomely, encouraging both short-term and long-term community involvement and ensuring the growth and sustainability of local non-profits, emergency programs, and public service initiatives.

Policy Overview

• Eligibility: Volunteers who contribute 50+ hours annually to registered organizations, charities, non-profits, emergency programs, or other registered entities.

• Tax Credit Structure:

• 50–100 hours: Eligible for a tax credit of $1,000 annually.

• 101–200 hours: Eligible for a tax credit of $2,500 annually.

• 201–400 hours: Eligible for a tax credit of $5,000 annually.

•401+ hours: Eligible for a tax credit of $7,500 annually.

• Additional Premium for Critical Volunteers: Volunteers in high-need areas (e.g., healthcare, mental health services, disaster response, elderly care) will receive an additional $2,000 credit, regardless of hours, to further recognize the demanding nature of their work.

• Long-Term Commitment Bonus: Volunteers who have contributed 1,000+ hours cumulatively over 5+ years will receive an additional $5,000 tax credit on top of their standard credits as a reward for their ongoing service.

Verification and Tracking:

• Volunteers will log their hours through a centralized digital platform that is linked to registered organizations.

• Organizations will verify the logged hours and send official confirmation to volunteers to claim their tax credits.

• The digital platform will automatically integrate with tax filing systems to make it easy for volunteers to claim their credits during tax season.

Expected Outcomes:

• Explosive Growth in Volunteerism: With these highly lucrative tax incentives, we expect a dramatic rise in volunteer engagement, with thousands more residents dedicating time to local causes.

• Stronger Non-Profit Capacity: Non-profits will benefit from a larger pool of volunteers, improving their ability to provide critical services and run community programs.

• Deeper Community Involvement: Volunteers will become more deeply integrated into the fabric of the community, fostering stronger connections, trust, and collective action.

• Boosted Local Economy: Increased volunteerism also benefits local businesses and services as more people get involved in local activities, leading to a more vibrant economy.

This Volunteer Tax Credit Program is more than just a policy—it's a commitment to those who give their time and energy to make Esquimalt-Saanich-Sooke a better place. By offering significant tax breaks, we recognize the invaluable contributions of volunteers and encourage a culture of service and community. Together, we can strengthen our non-profits, support critical services, and build a more connected, resilient community for all.

Let’s make volunteering rewarding for everyone.

Authorized by the Official Agent for Param Bhatti

© 2025 Official Campaign for Param Bhatti