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2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index
2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index
The most comprehensive and representative research on the wellbeing of non-profit workers ever conducted in Canada.
Sign up now for first access to the Index on May 22.
Be the first to read the 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index.
Join the waitlist now and receive the report on May 22.
By submitting your email, you consent to receive the 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index and occasional emails from Future of Good, including our free newsletter The Impact Insider. You may unsubscribe at any time.
Be the first to read the 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index.
Join the waitlist now and receive the report on May 22.
By submitting your email, you consent to receive the 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index and occasional emails from Future of Good, including our free newsletter The Impact Insider. You may unsubscribe at any time.
INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
Canada’s non-profit sector runs on purpose. But is it running on empty?
The nonprofit sector runs on purpose.
But is it running on empty?
Canada’s non-profit sector runs on purpose. But is it running on empty?
Dive in to explore how the trends and insights from the country’s first-ever comprehensive research on non-profit workers’ health and wellbeing can guide your leaders, team and board.
The 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index is a free resource filled with reliable data on the factors affecting the wellness of non-profit workers in diverse roles, causes and communities. The initial report offers unique actionable insights from across the sector on everything from mental health to mentoring.
If you want to attract new talent, retain your best people or enable your team to flourish, then the Changemaker Wellbeing Index is for you. Its findings can inform your initiatives, advocacy and action, whether you’re shaping policies, securing or providing funding, or cultivating thriving workplaces.
Dive in to explore how the trends and insights from the country’s first-ever comprehensive research on non-profit workers’ health and wellbeing can guide your leaders, team and board.
The 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index is a free resource filled with reliable data on the factors affecting the wellness of non-profit workers in diverse roles, causes and communities. The initial report offers unique actionable insights from across the sector on everything from mental health to mentoring.
If you want to attract new talent, retain your best people or enable your team to flourish, then the Changemaker Wellbeing Index is for you. Its findings can inform your initiatives, advocacy and action, whether you’re shaping policies, securing or providing funding, or cultivating thriving workplaces.
WHY IT MATTERS
WHY IT MATTERS
In the non-profit sector, 93% of workers believe their work positively impacts the community. Despite this, one-third struggle with food insecurity and burnout and are considering quitting.
Now is the time for impactful action that creates stronger, more effective, resilient non-profits. Yet, many organizations are uncertain where to begin.
The Changemaker Wellbeing Index changes that for good.
Before this report, no high-quality pan-Canadian datasets existed, and progress was lacking in centring care and wellbeing within non-profit and charitable organizations. The 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index presents evidence-based findings on mental health, belonging, workload, financial security and more.
By tracking wellbeing indicators over time, the report provides valuable insights into the unique challenges and support needs of individuals working in the sector. The Changemaker Wellbeing Index enables everyone — from leadership teams and funders to frontline workers and board directors — to leverage its key insights and implications.
In the non-profit sector, 93% of workers believe their work positively impacts the community. Despite this, one-third struggle with food insecurity and burnout and are considering quitting.
Now is the time for impactful action that creates stronger, more effective, resilient non-profits. Yet, many organizations are uncertain where to begin.
The Changemaker Wellbeing Index changes that for good.
Before this report, no high-quality pan-Canadian datasets existed, and progress was lacking in centring care and wellbeing within non-profit and charitable organizations. The 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index presents evidence-based findings on mental health, belonging, workload, financial security and more.
By tracking wellbeing indicators over time, the report provides valuable insights into the unique challenges and support needs of individuals working in the sector. The Changemaker Wellbeing Index enables everyone — from leadership teams and funders to frontline workers and board directors — to leverage its key insights and implications.
Key Findings
Essential takeaways from our research
70%
70%
of non-profit workers feel burned out and exhausted at least occasionally
36%
36%
of non-profit workers face poor or very poor wellbeing
of non-profit workers face poor or very poor wellbeing
30%
30%
of non-profit workers are food insecure
of non-profit workers are food insecure
39%
39%
of non-profit workers’ salaries rarely or never allow them to save money
42%
42%
of community non-profit workers may quit in the next six months
Be the first to read the 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index.
Be the first to read the 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index.
Join the waitlist now and receive the report on May 22.
Join the waitlist now and receive the report on May 22.
By submitting your email, you consent to receive the 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index and occasional emails from Future of Good, including our free newsletters, The Impact Insider and Learn.Impact.Grow. You may unsubscribe at any time.
METHODOLOGY
METHODOLOGY
The 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index is Canada’s most comprehensive and representative research survey on the wellbeing of non-profit workers.
In partnership with Environics Research, sector workers and funders, Future of Good designed an opt-in survey allowing any non-profit worker to participate via an online platform. Unlike previous efforts that often relied on volunteers, this is the first survey to randomly select participants from various demographics, ensuring the results represent the entire sector.
With more than 1,100 diverse workers from a wide range of roles taking part, the results offer invaluable, data-driven insights across eight key areas related to the wellness of individuals dedicated to making a difference.
The 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index is Canada’s most comprehensive and representative research survey on the wellbeing of non-profit workers.
In partnership with Environics Research, sector workers and funders, Future of Good designed an opt-in survey allowing any non-profit worker to participate via an online platform. Unlike previous efforts that often relied on volunteers, this is the first survey to randomly select participants from various demographics, ensuring the results represent the entire sector.
With more than 1,100 diverse workers from a wide range of roles taking part, the results offer invaluable, data-driven insights across eight key areas related to the wellness of individuals dedicated to making a difference.
ANY QUESTIONS?
ANY QUESTIONS?
What is this research about?
First of its kind, the 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index goes beyond simply presenting data. It simultaneously calls for action and provides an action plan for those who lead, manage, recruit, fund and work in the non-profit sector. This annual research initiative is designed to enable meaningful improvements for teams. It can function as a benchmark, shape internal policies and supports, enhance operational recruitment and retention strategies, and assist funders in making data-informed decisions. Changemakers no longer need to depend on anecdotes. Now, they can rely on evidence.
What is this research about?
First of its kind, the 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index goes beyond simply presenting data. It simultaneously calls for action and provides an action plan for those who lead, manage, recruit, fund and work in the non-profit sector. This annual research initiative is designed to enable meaningful improvements for teams. It can function as a benchmark, shape internal policies and supports, enhance operational recruitment and retention strategies, and assist funders in making data-informed decisions. Changemakers no longer need to depend on anecdotes. Now, they can rely on evidence.
What is this research about?
First of its kind, the 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index goes beyond simply presenting data. It simultaneously calls for action and provides an action plan for those who lead, manage, recruit, fund and work in the non-profit sector. This annual research initiative is designed to enable meaningful improvements for teams. It can function as a benchmark, shape internal policies and supports, enhance operational recruitment and retention strategies, and assist funders in making data-informed decisions. Changemakers no longer need to depend on anecdotes. Now, they can rely on evidence.
What is the definition of wellbeing?
The Changemaker Wellbeing Index defines wellbeing as the ability of individuals, organizations and communities in the social impact sector to thrive — not just survive — in pursuit of their purpose. It encompasses emotional, mental, physical and financial health, as well as relational trust, cultural safety, meaningful recognition, and a sense of agency in one’s work and role within society. Wellbeing is not a luxury or an afterthought. It is a collective responsibility and a structural condition, shaped by funding practices, leadership norms, workplace culture and systemic inequities. In this context, wellbeing also serves as a measure of sustainability, resilience and justice in the systems that changemakers are working to transform.
What is the definition of wellbeing?
The Changemaker Wellbeing Index defines wellbeing as the ability of individuals, organizations and communities in the social impact sector to thrive — not just survive — in pursuit of their purpose. It encompasses emotional, mental, physical and financial health, as well as relational trust, cultural safety, meaningful recognition, and a sense of agency in one’s work and role within society. Wellbeing is not a luxury or an afterthought. It is a collective responsibility and a structural condition, shaped by funding practices, leadership norms, workplace culture and systemic inequities. In this context, wellbeing also serves as a measure of sustainability, resilience and justice in the systems that changemakers are working to transform.
What is the definition of wellbeing?
The Changemaker Wellbeing Index defines wellbeing as the ability of individuals, organizations and communities in the social impact sector to thrive — not just survive — in pursuit of their purpose. It encompasses emotional, mental, physical and financial health, as well as relational trust, cultural safety, meaningful recognition, and a sense of agency in one’s work and role within society. Wellbeing is not a luxury or an afterthought. It is a collective responsibility and a structural condition, shaped by funding practices, leadership norms, workplace culture and systemic inequities. In this context, wellbeing also serves as a measure of sustainability, resilience and justice in the systems that changemakers are working to transform.
Which dimensions of wellbeing are included in this index?
To provide a comprehensive picture of non-profit professionals’ lived experiences, the 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index collected, analyzed and reported on eight dimensions of wellness: • Mental health • Burnout/exhaustion • Anxiety at work • Life satisfaction • Job satisfaction • Loneliness • Household income sufficiency • Food insecurity
Which dimensions of wellbeing are included in this index?
To provide a comprehensive picture of non-profit professionals’ lived experiences, the 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index collected, analyzed and reported on eight dimensions of wellness: • Mental health • Burnout/exhaustion • Anxiety at work • Life satisfaction • Job satisfaction • Loneliness • Household income sufficiency • Food insecurity
Which dimensions of wellbeing are included in this index?
To provide a comprehensive picture of non-profit professionals’ lived experiences, the 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index collected, analyzed and reported on eight dimensions of wellness: • Mental health • Burnout/exhaustion • Anxiety at work • Life satisfaction • Job satisfaction • Loneliness • Household income sufficiency • Food insecurity
What was the methodology around the Changemaker Wellbeing Index?
The Changemaker Wellbeing Index survey gathered insights from over 1,100 non-profit workers across Canada. It is one of the first global efforts to obtain a representative sample of individuals working in this sector. The online panel conducted by Environics Research over 21 days in February and March 2025 consisted of respondents who opted in based on their employment but were unaware that the survey focused on the non-profit sector. Participants answered questions about their workplace experiences, overall wellbeing, demographic information, attitudes and thoughts on working in the non-profit sector, and future plans.
What was the methodology around the Changemaker Wellbeing Index?
The Changemaker Wellbeing Index survey gathered insights from over 1,100 non-profit workers across Canada. It is one of the first global efforts to obtain a representative sample of individuals working in this sector. The online panel conducted by Environics Research over 21 days in February and March 2025 consisted of respondents who opted in based on their employment but were unaware that the survey focused on the non-profit sector. Participants answered questions about their workplace experiences, overall wellbeing, demographic information, attitudes and thoughts on working in the non-profit sector, and future plans.
What was the methodology around the Changemaker Wellbeing Index?
The Changemaker Wellbeing Index survey gathered insights from over 1,100 non-profit workers across Canada. It is one of the first global efforts to obtain a representative sample of individuals working in this sector. The online panel conducted by Environics Research over 21 days in February and March 2025 consisted of respondents who opted in based on their employment but were unaware that the survey focused on the non-profit sector. Participants answered questions about their workplace experiences, overall wellbeing, demographic information, attitudes and thoughts on working in the non-profit sector, and future plans.
Who funded this project?
Several audacious organizations funded the 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index. They include GreenShield, ATB Financial, Ontario Trillium Foundation, WES Mariam Assefa Fund, The Definity Insurance Foundation and United Way Centraide Canada.
Who funded this project?
Several audacious organizations funded the 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index. They include GreenShield, ATB Financial, Ontario Trillium Foundation, WES Mariam Assefa Fund, The Definity Insurance Foundation and United Way Centraide Canada.
Who funded this project?
Several audacious organizations funded the 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index. They include GreenShield, ATB Financial, Ontario Trillium Foundation, WES Mariam Assefa Fund, The Definity Insurance Foundation and United Way Centraide Canada.
Where can I follow updates regarding the Changemaker Wellbeing Index?
The best way to receive updates about the Changemaker Wellbeing Index is to become a Future of Good member. You will gain access to our entire Learning Journey, which includes: • A mental health symposium in October 2025 • A recruitment, retention and remote work symposium in January 2026 • Five deep-dive reports and editorial stories on food insecurity, mental health and burnout, recruitment and retention, remote work and caregiving • Additional resources and expert guidance You will also join the vibrant Future of Good community of leaders and teams dedicated to building a better tomorrow.
Where can I follow updates regarding the Changemaker Wellbeing Index?
The best way to receive updates about the Changemaker Wellbeing Index is to become a Future of Good member. You will gain access to our entire Learning Journey, which includes: • A mental health symposium in October 2025 • A recruitment, retention and remote work symposium in January 2026 • Five deep-dive reports and editorial stories on food insecurity, mental health and burnout, recruitment and retention, remote work and caregiving • Additional resources and expert guidance You will also join the vibrant Future of Good community of leaders and teams dedicated to building a better tomorrow.
Where can I follow updates regarding the Changemaker Wellbeing Index?
The best way to receive updates about the Changemaker Wellbeing Index is to become a Future of Good member. You will gain access to our entire Learning Journey, which includes: • A mental health symposium in October 2025 • A recruitment, retention and remote work symposium in January 2026 • Five deep-dive reports and editorial stories on food insecurity, mental health and burnout, recruitment and retention, remote work and caregiving • Additional resources and expert guidance You will also join the vibrant Future of Good community of leaders and teams dedicated to building a better tomorrow.
I have comments about the project. Where can I leave feedback for future consideration?
Launched in 2025, the Changemaker Wellbeing Index is a report that will be updated annually over the next decade by surveying non-profit professionals about their wellness. We welcome your feedback to enhance future surveys. For inquiries, please get in touch with us at info@futureofgood.co.
I have comments about the project. Where can I leave feedback for future consideration?
Launched in 2025, the Changemaker Wellbeing Index is a report that will be updated annually over the next decade by surveying non-profit professionals about their wellness. We welcome your feedback to enhance future surveys. For inquiries, please get in touch with us at info@futureofgood.co.
I have comments about the project. Where can I leave feedback for future consideration?
Launched in 2025, the Changemaker Wellbeing Index is a report that will be updated annually over the next decade by surveying non-profit professionals about their wellness. We welcome your feedback to enhance future surveys. For inquiries, please get in touch with us at info@futureofgood.co.
Have questions about the Changemaker Wellbeing Index that we haven’t addressed? Contact us anytime.
Send Message
Send Message
Send Message
Learning Journey
On May 22, unlock the Index’s full insights, trends and deeper dive reports as a roadmap to guide actionable and tangible change.
Explore a complete Learning Journey that includes in-depth conversations, quarterly findings reports, two webinars, and editorial stories on topics such as food insecurity and remote work. You will also connect with a peer community of leaders dedicated to improving team wellness.
Be the first to read the 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index.
Be the first to read the 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index.
Join the waitlist now and receive the report on May 22.
By submitting your email, you consent to receive the 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index and occasional emails from Future of Good, including our free newsletters, The Impact Insider and Learn.Impact.Grow. You may unsubscribe at any time.
By submitting your email, you consent to receive the 2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index and occasional emails from Future of Good, including our free newsletters, The Impact Insider and Learn.Impact.Grow. You may unsubscribe at any time.
2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index
The most comprehensive and representative research on the wellbeing of non-profit workers ever conducted in Canada.
Future of Good
2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index
The most comprehensive and representative research on the wellbeing of non-profit workers ever conducted in Canada.
Future of Good
2025 Changemaker Wellbeing Index
The most comprehensive and representative research on the wellbeing of non-profit workers ever conducted in Canada.
Future of Good