New milestone unlocked - we’re a non-profit!

Queering Cancer is excited to share our designation as a non-profit in Canada.

In April 2025, Queering Cancer was federally registered as a non-profit organization under Canada’s Not-for-profit Corporations Act. 🥳 This is a big step in the life of our little org!

Before we took this step, our structure was informal; a close-knit queer and trans cancer fan club. This was fine initially, but we were limited in terms of funding we were eligible for (very little), and there was a vulnerability knowing we didn’t formally exist but our work and responsibilities were increasing.

Getting incorporated had been on the to-do list for at least two years but it was a daunting step. A couple of friends from other cancer advocacy non-profits shared their experience and top tips, which helped immensely. However, something was still holding us back - perhaps the responsibility of being a “real” organization with this important role. Finally, we took the plunge this Easter. It could have been the long weekend or the influence of chocolate eggs, but whatever it was, we got it done.

Our new non-profit status has a few great advantages; we have legal protection over the name “Queering Cancer”, we have a handle on our governance structure and policies thanks to our bylaws (a requirement of being a registered non-profit), and we are in a better place to apply for grants and work on projects that can further our aim.

What’s next? Well, we have some more policy drafting to do (yay!) Then we want to diversify our board of directors, bringing in more folks with lived experience and more intersectionality (stay tuned for a call for directors later this year 👀). Our next big task will be to develop a strategic plan and make sure we’re working towards our mission in the most community-driven and meaningful way. 💜