Who we are
The Federation of Community Social Services of BC is a provincial association representing over 155 social services organizations that deliver essential social services throughout B.C. Our members work on the front lines of care, supporting children, youth, families, seniors and individuals navigating complex challenges. With over four decades of collective leadership, we are a trusted, values-driven voice in British Columbia’s social policy landscape.
What we do and for whom
We support, connect and advocate for the community social services sector. We bring together organizations from every region and background to strengthen practice, inform policy and build sector resilience. Three strategic pillars guide our work:
Our foundation: strengthening internal systems and sustainability
Our centre: putting members first in everything we do
Our voice: leading public conversations and influencing policy change
Why become a member?
Connect with a supportive network: access professional development, peer support and sector knowledge from leaders across B.C.’s community social services landscape.
Influence policy and innovation: engage directly with provincial decision-makers to shape policy, advance equity and strengthen support for vulnerable populations.
Enjoy exclusive perquisites: gain access to extended health and insurance benefits, RRSP options, discounted rates for conferences and workshops, and a comprehensive job and event posting service.
When and where we act
The Federation works year-round and provincewide. We are active in every region of B.C., from urban centres to rural and remote communities. We act when our members call for support, particularly when provincial policies shift or when there are opportunities to advance equity, inclusion, justice and reconciliation through coordinated action. Our regional meetings, member-led initiatives and sector-wide events keep us connected, informed and accountable to the diverse communities we serve.
Why we do what we do
We believe that a strong, connected community social services sector is one of the building blocks of a healthy society. Our members are essential to the health and well-being of communities, providing care, prevention and support that help people thrive. They deserve systems that respect, invest in and reflect the realities of their work. We exist to champion those values and ensure the sector has the tools, voice and collective strength it needs to build a more just and caring province.
How we do it
We lead with advocacy: working to influence provincial policies and secure the funding our sector needs to thrive. We bring member voices to the table, amplify regional realities and push for systems that reflect the care and complexity of community work. As a connector, convener and champion, we host regional meetings, share sector stories and create opportunities for learning and collaboration, all in the name of advocating for a more resilient sector. Our work is grounded in the lived experience of our members. We honour that Indigenous participation in this sector is a choice and are committed to challenging colonial structures and advancing reconciliation in everything we do.
Membership with The Federation of Community Social Services of BC
The Federation welcomes community social service organizations from across British Columbia, including those serving rural, urban and Indigenous communities. As a member, you become part of a strong collective voice working to improve social policies and strengthen the sector.
We offer three types of membership:
Full membership (voting)
For B.C.-based community social service organizations. Fees are calculated at 0.125% of annual revenue, based on the most recent financial statements, excluding flow-through and fundraising revenue. Fees range from a minimum of $250 to a maximum of $4,500.
Associate membership (non-voting)
For groups and organizations that support the sector and wish to stay connected, but are not eligible for Full Membership. Flat-rate fee. Federation Associate fees are $400 annually for Research & Education Bodies and $300 for other organizations.
Honorary membership (non-voting)
Honorary (non-voting) members include individuals and groups that have made an outstanding contribution to The Federation or the social care sector of B.C., either over time or through a focused project or initiative.
The Federation is accepting nominations for Honorary Membership. Nominations require two letters of support from current Federation members or partners, with an optional additional letter and supporting documents.
Honorary members have the same rights and privileges as Associate members but are not required to pay dues or assessments.
We also offer a Benefit Affiliate category for organizations that wish to access the Federation Association Benefit Plan (FABP) without becoming members. This option is available at 0.0625% of annual revenue. Please email The Federation office to explore this option.
Membership year runs from April 1 to March 31, and fees are prorated based on your approval date.
