Updated as of July 18, 2024
Pillar Nonprofit Network is a network organization whose mission is: “We are a force for positive change in our community. We strengthen individuals and organizations through inclusive advocacy, comprehensive capacity building, and collaboration.”
As a network organization, we aim to provide opportunities to make members more visible, better connected and better resourced. Our network is made up of over 200 nonprofit members, along with grassroots organizations, businesses, social enterprises, and individuals in the London region.
The following statement of values illustrates the work that Pillar is doing in the community and beyond to build capacity, strengthen connections, and advance transformational change—forging a just and vibrant tomorrow for all.
Statement of Values
We believe that the work we do to strengthen the community is work we do together, with you. Collaboration is key to establishing an engaged, inclusive and vibrant community, and we weave this vision into all of our programs at Pillar Nonprofit Network and Innovation Works. We are committed to sharing resources, opportunities, and information with our members to help them do their work and we actively support and participate in that work by attending and amplifying member events, Annual General Meetings, and more. We invite our members to share their knowledge with us, and work with us to identify potential knowledge users within the network.
We begin with the understanding that we are all on a journey - and part of that journey is growth. We are committed to being respectful of each other and to show up with humility and empathy and a willingness to learn and unlearn.
We lean into discomfort. We acknowledge that creating the change we wish to see in the world is hard, and at times, uncomfortable. It is also heart-centered work. We are committed to cultivating a brave space where all members feel empowered to use their voice, within Pillar, their own organization, and beyond.
We are committed to anti-oppression and anti-racism. We acknowledge our shared complicity in systemic oppression, and how we participate in and have benefitted from these systemic inequalities. We recognize that anti-oppression and anti-racism are distinct from simply having a disposition of being “not racist" or "not oppressive," but instead is characterized by taking action against oppression and racism. We challenge it in all its forms, including, but not limited to, racism, ableism, sexism, and homophobia. We strive to identify and address the barriers that prevent equity-serving groups from fully participating in our programs and activities. We expect and accept non-closure as we work toward dismantling systemic inequalities, as we know that this work is constantly evolving. This drives us to consistently and honestly check in on our progress and re-evaluate our definitions of success.
As a membership organization, we value transparency, and seek to ensure decision making is inclusive of diverse perspectives and lived expertise. We share information with the network through our e-newsletters, and invite Pillar members, Innovation Works co-tenants, and others to share their perspectives through surveys, discussion groups, and meetings. We also seek to identify the voices that are not being included and work with local organizations and individuals to close those gaps.
We maintain an open channel of communication with all of our members. We are committed to seeking regular feedback and promptly responding to and addressing concerns. Our members are our top priority, and we are dedicated to providing the network with information, resources, and support.
In accordance with Pillar Nonprofit Network’s Governing Bylaw, every new or renewing member will be reviewed by the Board of Directors. If the Board determines that an organization’s values and/or activities are not aligned with our own, that organization’s membership may be denied or revoked.
As a member of Pillar Nonprofit Network, your organization:
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agrees that use of membership benefits and services is limited to an organization’s current staff and current board members only.
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agrees that your membership fees accurately reflect the current operating budget of your organization. Accurately declaring your operating budget ensures that we keep membership accessible to as many organizations as possible. This information must be kept up to date every year upon renewal.
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agrees to give credit for any work, templates, or other resources developed by Pillar Nonprofit Network or any other member organization that your organization accesses and/or modifies to help you do your work.
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agrees not to use Pillar membership or the name of Pillar Nonprofit Network in any illegal or unethical activity, including false claims of endorsement.
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agrees not to engage in any practice which is in violation of local, provincial or federal laws and regulations or is considered to be illegal or unethical.
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agrees not to abuse the name, logo, or programs of Pillar Nonprofit Network for personal or organizational profit, gain or benefit, nor shall they allow Pillar’s name, or logo to be used by others in a manner deemed to be inappropriate by Pillar’s Board of Directors.
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agrees not to discriminate against other members of Pillar Nonprofit Network or the community on the basis of race, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or disability and all other classes protected under the Ontario Human Rights Code.
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agrees to be respectful and empathetic of others, even if opinions differ.
Termination of Membership
Membership ends when the member dies, resigns, is expelled, the term of membership ends, or the corporation closes down. All rights of membership end when membership is terminated.
Violations of the Code of Conduct and Remedies
Violations of Pillar Nonprofit Network’s Code of Conduct or its governing bylaw, may have consequences ranging from a verbal or written notice and warning, to suspension, or revocation of membership and its benefits. More than two written notices of violations, or any criminal behaviour, will result in an immediate suspension of all membership benefits while an investigation is undertaken. In such an event, the member shall not be refunded any membership, registration or other fees.
For more information about the rights and responsibilities of members, and termination of membership, please refer to the Ontario Not-For-Profit Corporations Act.
Sources:
1. Statement of Values inspired by the Feminism Enterprise Commons (FEC) Community Agreements and the Pillar Nonprofit Network Learning & Development Community Agreements
