The Council's growth coincided with a time of extraordinary stresses within the country, stresses that sprang not so much from reforming federalism as they did from addressing a threat to the country's very integrity. The threat remains very real, and the Council is very conscious of it.

Today, however, new external pressures have been added to constitutional and other internal tensions. They arise from globalization, the internationalization of national economies, the growing influence of international organizations and powerful multinational corporations. They tend to erode the sovereignty of individual states.

The Council also must address such pressing matters as immigration policy, foreign ownership and threats to Canadian society's cultural roots.

In recent years, opinion polls have shown that while Canadians accept the new realities, they want to strengthen pan-Canadian links and maintain social cohesion. The Council - through its vast network of volunteers and supporters as well as through partnerships with other organizations - is well positioned and ready to help them achieve these objectives.

The Council adapts its youth programs and sets up new ones. It has started a residence exchange program for families who seek a less costly way to get to know the country better.

In 1996, it established the Centre for Research and Information on Canada (CRIC). CRIC informs Canadians about their institutions through its research, its publications and roundtable discussions, thereby encouraging greater citizen involvement in public affairs.

The Council also set up a Department of Development to further diversify Council funding which comes from the private sector (gifts, donations and sponsorships), government grants and revenues generated by programs.

The Council's mission is educational. It is a registered charity and donations are tax deductible.

Business-like administrative policies are the standard for Council operations. Its activities are audited annually and a full financial statement published in its annual report. Those interested can view the most up-to-date financial statement by visiting the CUC portal at www.cucweb.ca.

Every month, tens of thousands of visitors log on to the Council's sites to find out about its programs and issues that relate to Canadian unity and the federation's development.