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A groundbreaking new study has revealed alarming levels of burnout, financial stress, and emotional exhaustion among Canada’s non-profit workers.
Published by Future of Good, the Changemaker Well-being Index surveyed over 1,100 non-profit professionals across the country. The findings show a sector under pressure, with many workers on the edge of burnout — and some considering leaving their jobs altogether.
“This is the first time we’ve seen data of this scale on non-profit worker well-being,” said Anouk Bertner, Executive Director at Future of Good. “It gives us a powerful look into a workforce that does so much for our communities, yet is often overlooked.”
Key findings include:
36% of workers report feeling burnt out or exhausted “often or always”
31% experience food insecurity — jumping to 48% among frontline staff
50% feel anxious at work
1 in 3 say they are ready to quit
Entry-level staff are hit hardest, with nearly half struggling to make ends meet
The study also shows a disparity between community non-profits and government-linked ones (like hospitals and schools), with community workers reporting lower well-being overall.
Low wages, age, and lack of job seniority appear to be major factors behind these troubling trends.
“This is a wake-up call for sector leaders,” Bertner added. “If we want to attract and keep talented people, we need to invest in their well-being.”
The report aims to spark meaningful change in how the non-profit sector supports its own — before it’s too late.
