2020 Year End
The Canadian Endurance Sports Alliance has learned a lot in 2020. We embarked on an awareness campaign several months ago and we can proudly say, mission accomplished. Numerous government officials know of CESA, but more importantly, they have been informed of the amazing work we do year in and year out; raising money for nonprofits, getting Canadians moving, and providing one-of-a-kind jobs for thousands of Canadians across the country. There are several government officials actively lobbying on behalf of CESA within various sectors of the government; health, economic development, sport, and finance. Our ask of the government has been well received because of the data y’all have supplied. It was vital that we had two numbers; one ask if the current programs continue to exist, and a secondary ask if the programs should cease to exist. We are now in the process of sharing where and why certain programs do not work for some of our members, and once again highlighting the gaps. If you have any questions, please feel free to send us an email.
Lastly, here is a brief overview of 2020 and some thoughts around what 2021 might look like for CESA.
List of 2020 Accomplishments
Incorporated: Based on the recommendation of our government relations firm, CESA chose to formally incorporate, which provides legitimacy to the group and a path forward for future endeavours.
Government Program Research: The board has spent a considerable amount of time trying to better understand the current programs and voice our concerns relative to the gaps that exist.
It is in your best interest to familiarize yourself with the following programs: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/business/maintaining-your-business.html
Government Advocacy: CESA has reached out to 50+ government officials and conducted upwards of 30 meetings. Some of the most fruitful meetings have been a result of local event organizers setting us up with their local MPs. These calls typically result in advocacy at higher levels of government. We cannot express how crucial this is...if you would like help reaching out to your local MP, please let us know.
Media Campaigns: The #StartLineImpact campaign was wildly successful. It provided event organizers and participants with an opportunity to reflect on the season that wasn’t and share sentiments of hope as we look forward to 2021. Follow us on Instagram @cdnendurancesportsalliance.
Looking Forward to 2021: The CESA board will be hosting a Strategy Meeting on January 12th to discuss the following: funding, education, town halls, media outreach, diversity & inclusion, new board member vote, etc. If you have a topic that you think should be discussed at the meeting, please let us know.
Happy Holidays from the CESA Board
