Why CANOPA?
Over the years there have been many conversations around campfires among outdoor professionals and about how or why we do what we do. CANOPA wants to create a better industry for present and future professionals.
Our survey data, along with ongoing conversations with other Canadian and American associations, helped us to identify the need for a national organization that aims to represent and support outdoor professionals secure and maintain sustainable work. As an ongoing project, the survey data continues to inform our next steps as an organization.
We have four main goals that we are focused on educating the current and upcoming outdoor professionals, including & amplifying diverse voices within the community, advocating for a better a more sustainable industry and support the outdoor professional community.
Educate
Outdoor Professionals on their rights as employees and the employment standards that govern our work.
Include & Amplify Diversity
Within the community. This looks like both Amplifying and including marginalized voices that have been routinely silenced or excluded, AND reducing barriers that folx from diverse backgrounds face entering and sustaining themselves in the profession.
Advocate
For a more sustainable industry, specifically, advocate for improved employment standards, a livable wage, an industry-wide pay ladder, and industry wide coverage under the WSIB.
Support
Outdoor Professionals and build community. This would include things like health benefits, insurance, mentorship, continuing education, community development through a yearly symposium, and access to legal support in issues surrounding employment standards and workplace safety.