AFP Chapter AGM + Education Session: Realistic Corporate Partnerships

The AFP Edmonton & Area Chapter AGM will directly follow the Education Session. Option to attend only the AGM if timing does not allow for both. Please see registration options.

Location:

The Bison Lodge (formerly Pioneers Cabin)

9430 Scona Road - Stephenson Room

Realistic Corporate Partnerships – for you and your donors! This session will cover looking internally at our own resources and building a plan that is sustainable and focusing on key priorities of transparency, value and relationships.

This session is FREE for all current AFP members to attend as a benefit of your membership!

CFRE Credits: 1.5

About the presenters:

Sean McLaughlin – Director, Corporate Partnerships & Partner Experience, University Hospital Foundation

Sean McLaughlin started his career in corporate partnerships with the Edmonton Elks in 2016 and has since moved onto the University Hospital Foundation where he leads a Revenue Generation portfolio including corporate sponsorship, corporate philanthropy, partner experience and research & prospect management.

Sean is constantly looking to find ways to connect corporate leaders with the cause of the University Hospital Foundation. He continues to build great partnerships that fuel our corporate community to take pride in supporting meaningful projects, but also empowering their employees to do the same

Sean resides in Edmonton, AB with his wife Karrone and son, Aiden. They enjoy visiting neighbourhood cafes where Aiden has earned the status of croissant connoisseur. Throughout the seasons, you’ll find Sean playing golf, often adventuring around the world to new golf destinations.

Adrienne Bridgeman – Campaign Director, University Hospital Foundation

Adrienne Bridgeman is the Campaign Director for the University Hospital Foundation. She joined the foundation after a career spanning nearly two decades with the Edmonton Elks Football Club. Her focus has consistently been on client service, growth, retention and building partnerships that have a positive impact on our community.

Her career is guided by care, hard work, humour, and compassion - it also fuels her passion for leadership. Adrienne started with the Elks in 2005, straight out of a college internship, and held multiple positions including, customer service, ticketing, and finance, spending the majority of EE career in revenue generation. Adrienne grew a small, singular role into an entire department and set the gold standard for servicing for the Elks and CFL, building a solid foundation of trust, which resulted in long-term partnerships along the way.

Today Adrienne is excited to be working the health sector for a foundation that is driving innovation and transforming health. Using her experience in revenue generation and leadership, she collaborates and builds resources for success to support the eight year Head and Heart Campaign, looking to raise $250M.

Adrienne resides in Edmonton with her husband, Nick, dog, Spencer and two year old son, Arthur. She is passionate about the outdoors and finds fresh air is the best medicine for a clear mind. With big life changes happening over the last couple years, Adrienne finds herself navigating her new career in healthcare and learning how she can best contribute to bettering the health of her community. But the real balancing act is being a working Mom and tackling the challenges of finding time for independence and striving to be happy, healthy and productive with the realignment of life priorities.

Masterclass Workshop: AI Productivity for Fund Development

Location:

Edmonton’s Food Bank
Annex Building
11434 - 120 Street NW
Edmonton AB

Fundraisers today face growing demands with limited time and resources. This workshop explores how AI can enhance productivity, allowing fund development professionals to focus on the meaningful work of relationship-building and donor engagement.

Key Takeaways:

• How AI can assist in donor communications, grant writing, and relationship strategies.

• Practical demonstrations of AI tools for fundraisers.

• Hands-on examples of using AI for efficiency in daily fundraising tasks.

Whether you're new to AI or looking to refine your approach, this session will provide tangible takeaways to integrate AI into your fundraising practice.

CFRE Credits: 2.0

Our 2025 Education Series is presented by the Edmonton Community Foundation.

About the presenters:

Randy Klassen is a seasoned leader in the non-profit sector, specializing in Fund Development and Strategic Planning. With over 38 years of experience, including 17 years as a YMCA CEO, he has successfully led capital campaigns, annual giving programs, and planned giving initiatives. As a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE), he now helps non-profits enhance their fundraising efforts through TR Leadership and Global Philanthropic Inc.

Randy is passionate about leveraging AI to improve productivity in fund development. His workshops focus on practical applications, demonstrating how AI can streamline tasks such as donor communications, grant writing, and campaign planning.

Conference Presentations & Speaking Engagements

Randy has shared his expertise in AI-driven fundraising strategies at major non-profit conferences, including:

• NAYDO Conference on YMCA Philanthropy (2025, St. Louis, MO) – Presenting on AI Productivity for Fund Development to YMCA fundraising professionals from across North America.

• Faith, Fundraising, and Communication Symposium (2025, Edmonton, AB) – Speaking on AI’s Role in Enhancing Fundraising Productivity to over 200 faith-based fundraisers and communications professionals.

• AFP South Saskatchewan (2025, Regina, SK) – Hosting a workshop on AI Productivity for Fund Development, focused on practical applications of AI for fundraising efficiency.

• YMCA AI Webinars (2024, International Audiences) – Led training sessions for YMCA fund development professionals in Canada, the U.S., and South America on how AI can support fundraising and donor engagement.

• AI Productivity Workshop for Non-Profit Charities (May 2025, Calgary, AB) – Presenting a workshop on using AI for efficiency in fundraising and donor engagement.

Through these engagements, Randy continues to empower non-profit professionals with innovative AI tools and strategies to maximize their impact while reducing administrative burdens.

Education Session:

The Power of Perspective – “Offer vs. Ask”

Location:

The Bison Lodge (formerly Pioneers Cabin)

9430 Scona Road - Stephenson Room

Join Sue McCoy as she explores a powerful mindset shift in the world of fundraising—moving from seeing fundraising as merely asking for money to recognizing it as offering others a meaningful opportunity to contribute to something they care about. When fundraisers view their work through this lens, it transforms not only their approach but also the response they receive. Drawing on Sue’s real-world examples and insights, she will discuss how this reframing deepens donor relationships, strengthens organizational mission, and fosters a more authentic and impactful giving experience for everyone involved.

CFRE Credits: 1.5

About the presenters:

Sue McCoy is a highly skilled development professional and has worked for a variety of nonprofit organizations over the past 25 years. Currently, Sue is employed as VP of Philanthropy with the Stollery Children's Hospital Foundation, one of Canada’s largest children’s hospital foundations. She oversees a highly skilled team securing over $50 million a year in donations. Prior to the Stollery, Sue worked at KCI as a fundraising consultant. During her tenor with KCI, Sue worked on a variety of capital campaign projects across the country, securing over $300 million in donations. Sue has held many volunteer positions in the community including roles on the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Business and Professional Women and the Glenora Community League Board of Trustees. Sue holds an M.A. in Sociology from Carleton University in Ottawa, a diploma in Fundraising Management from MacEwan University and is a Certified Fundraising Executive.

Education Session:

Tech Savvy - Supercharge Your Fundraising with Cutting-Edge Solutions

Location:

The Bison Lodge (formerly Pioneers Cabin)

9430 Scona Road - Stephenson Room

Ready to revolutionize your fundraising strategy? Join us for an exclusive session designed for fundraising and business professionals looking to harness the power of technology! From AI to cloud-based tools, discover game-changing solutions that will save you time, boost collaboration, and drive results in your fundraising efforts.

What You’ll Discover:

Co-Pilot: Unlock the power of AI to effortlessly draft personalized donor communications, analyze data, and deliver valuable insights. Say goodbye to time-consuming tasks and hello to smarter decision-making!

SharePoint: Dive into this powerhouse tool that keeps your team connected, manages donor information seamlessly, and ensures secure, cloud-based collaboration—anytime, anywhere.

Teams Meeting Summaries: Discover how Microsoft Teams can automatically generate meeting summaries, so you never miss key details and can focus more on what truly matters: strengthening relationships and advancing your mission.

Why Attend?

This isn’t just another tech talk—it’s a hands-on session packed with actionable tips and tools that will help you elevate your fundraising game and work smarter, not harder.

CFRE Credits: 1.5

Our 2025 Education Series is presented by the Edmonton Community Foundation.

About the presenters:

Luke Williamson is the founder and President of Accurate Network Services Inc. Over the past 18 years, Accurate Networks has grown from humble beginnings, operating out of Luke’s car, to becoming one of Alberta’s leading IT Managed Services firms with over 50 staff and offices in Edmonton and Calgary. Luke focuses on fostering a strong company culture, driving service innovation, and developing strategic partnerships with clients, vendors, and the community.

Luke serves on the board of the Winnifred Stewart Association and is a past President of the Entrepreneur’s Organization (Edmonton Chapter). In 2024, he founded Climbing for Change, an event that raised over $40,000 for local charities with the participation of 80 individuals. The event aims to double both attendees and donations this September.

Outside of work, Luke is an avid endurance runner, often found training in Edmonton’s River Valley for his next long-distance adventure. https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-williamson-517b0712/

Bente Roycroft is the co-owner and Chief Executive Officer at Accurate Network Services Inc., an IT managed service provider with offices in Edmonton and Calgary. Before joining Accurate in 2017, she worked as a business consultant helping organizations develop and implement their strategic plans. She received her MBA from the University of Alberta in 2014, and a Bachelor of Arts majoring in English literature in 2007.

Bente is currently on the board of directors for Entrepreneur’s Organization (EO) Edmonton and Greenfield Community Church. She has experience serving as a director of Business and Professional Women (BPW) Edmonton, the Eating Disorder Support Network of Alberta, and the Christmas Bureau of Edmonton.

Outside of work, Bente enjoys doing anything outdoors (gardening, the river valley, and fire pits), home renovation projects, and hanging out with her husband, Mike and their Boston terrier, Lady McDuff. linkedin.com/in/benteroycroft

Education Session: Love Languages in the Workplace

We’re excited to welcome Sue McCoy, Vice President of Philanthropy at The Stollery Children's Hospital Foundation, as she leads a session on "Love Languages in the Workplace."

This session will explore how to connect with your colleagues and show up as your best self in the workplace, with a special focus on understanding how love languages can enhance communication, teamwork, and relationships in your fundraising efforts.

Enjoy coffee and treats from The Hallway Cafe while networking with other professionals. Don't miss this chance to enhance your workplace dynamics!

Workplace Love Languages

We’ve all heard about Love Languages, but how do you incorporate these in our workplace?

The main difference between a love language between two partners and a workplace love language is this: When you communicate your love language with your partner, you create a symbiotic relationship between the two of you.

However, taking this approach in the workplace creates a culture of care, empathy, and perspective. When done authentically, the workplace languages will become contagious.

Be prepared to find out about what your Workplace Love Language is and how with this understanding you can enhance your workplace relationships.

CFRE Credits: 1.5

Our 2025 Education Series is presented by the Edmonton Community Foundation.

About the presenter:

Sue McCoy is a highly skilled development professional and has worked for a variety of nonprofit organizations over the past 25 years. Currently, Sue is employed as VP of Philanthropy with the Stollery Children's Hospital Foundation, one of Canada’s largest children’s hospital foundations. She oversees a highly skilled team securing over $50 million a year in donations. Prior to the Stollery, Sue worked at KCI as a fundraising consultant. During her tenor with KCI, Sue worked on a variety of capital campaign projects across the country, securing over $300 million in donations. Sue has held many volunteer positions in the community including roles on the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Business and Professional Women and the Glenora Community League Board of Trustees. Sue holds an M.A. in Sociology from Carleton University in Ottawa, a diploma in Fundraising Management from MacEwan University and is a Certified Fundraising Executive.

Legacy in Action: Mastering Planned Giving & Endowments for Fundraising Success

Join us for an essential two-part morning learning series tailored for professional fundraisers looking to enhance their impact in philanthropy!

Part One: Planned Giving - Crafting a Legacy
Delve into the intricacies of planned giving and discover how to align donor values with your organization’s mission. Learn advanced strategies to effectively engage donors, create compelling narratives, and foster meaningful connections that lead to impactful, long-term contributions.

Part Two: Endowments Explained - Building a Sustainable Future for Your Causes
Explore the critical role of endowments in securing financial stability for your organization. Gain insights into best practices for establishing, managing, and promoting endowments that empower your mission and ensure continuity for years to come.

Designed for both emerging and established fundraisers, this masterclass series will equip you with the tools to make strategic, informed decisions that drive lasting change in your organization’s philanthropic efforts. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your fundraising strategies!

Our 2025 Education Series is presented by the Edmonton Community Foundation.

About the presenters:

Lisa Dayanadan, CFRE, joined the Edmonton Community Foundation as a Philanthropy Advisor in July of 2024.  She has had a self-described 'portfolio career' working in education, administration, and hospitality before finding her true passion in the charitable sector. 

Lisa has over 17 years of non-profit experience in both the UK and Canada, working with an array of causes including healthcare, education, poverty, homelessness, and international development. As an advocate for the sector and a firm believer in collaboration, Lisa serves as a board member with the local chapters of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) and the Canadian Association of Gift Planners (CAGP) and she is Chair of the Host City Committee for the 2025 CAGP Conference on Strategic Philanthropy.  She is passionate about people and their stories and enjoys working with donors and charities to hear their stories and help them contribute to strengthening our incredible community. 

Outside of the office Lisa is an avid reader, creative writer, coffee lover, tap dancer, and a fierce soccer mum.

Matt Mandrusiak is the Manager, Philanthropy at Edmonton Community Foundation (ECF). He joined ECF in 2015 after seven years of working with organizations focused on providing support to individuals with disabilities throughout Alberta. Having witnessed first-hand the passion and generosity of Edmontonians to support local causes, Matt has had the great privilege of assisting donors and charities to enhance our already amazing community.

Away from the office, he spends most of his time with his wife and two daughters, but you can often find him on the golf course. An avid traveler, Matt can also act as an unofficial Disney Parks vacation planner…Mickey ears included.

AFP Edmonton Holiday Celebration

Celebrate the holidays with fellow fundraisers from the Edmonton area!

What better excuse to get together with all your fundraising pals than the holiday season? Join us at Arcadia Brewing Co. for festive drinks and snacks, games, prizes and lots of opportunities for connections - old and new.

This event is open to members and non-members. Registration includes a drink and appetizers.

Talk and Toast

Join us on the third Thursday of every month at Sherlock Holmes, downtown location. It’s a chance to connect with other local fundraisers, ask for advice, share successes and challenges, while enjoying a good beverage.

No registration required - simple show up!

Questions? Email us at info@afpedmonton.ca

AFP Networking BBQ
Wednesday, August 21, 2024

In-person Location: Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park, Site #5- 13221 Buena Vista Rd NW, Edmonton, AB

Registration Deadline: August 18, 2024

AFP Networking BBQ:

4:00 -7:00 PM on August 21 at Laurier Park, Site #5.

Registration is required as a light meal and beverages will be provided. Bring friends or come on your own. This is a free event to get to know our Chapter.

Everyone is welcome, no membership required!

Event Registration

Registration Deadline: August 18, 2023

https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/afp-networking-bbq-tickets-944242784587

Scaling Up For Success

When:  June 4, 2024 - 4:00 PM - 6:30 PM

Where: Jerry Forbes Centre

The Edmonton & Area Association of Fundraising Professionals, along with our Education sponsor, Edmonton Community Foundation, invite you to join us for an evening of education and networking. Sponsored by Global Philanthropic Canada, this event features a session on Scaling Up For Success, presented by two experienced fundraising professionals: Sheila Steger and Mike House.

Immediately following the education session will be a networking event, with food and beverages included in the ticket cost.

About Sheila Steger:

Joining the Global team in 2023, Sheila is an accomplished nonprofit executive with extensive fundraising and nonprofit management experience raising more than $100 million and counting.

Having served in a range of roles and organizations, from a one-person fundraising shop in community services to teams of upwards of 200 in post-secondary, she is passionate about building strategic institutional capacity in people and programs that result in sustainable organizations that deliver fully and long-term on their mission.

What makes Sheila’s work stand out is her strategic yet practical approach. She moves organizations to resounding success through board governance, strategic planning, integrated fund development programs, and training/coaching of board, staff, and volunteers.

Fun fact: Ask Sheila about her need for speed! She has driven a NASCAR race car on a racetrack.

About Mike House:

Mike joined Global in 2024. With his trademark creative touch combined with an entrepreneurial flair, he has been a professional fundraiser and senior executive for over twenty years and is known for his authentic approach to building trust, his curiosity and his creativity.

Mike led the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation in Edmonton as President and CEO, overseeing a team that generated over 100,000 donations and $45 million annually, and over $300 million raised during his tenure. Before the Stollery, he served as Assistant Dean of Business at the University of Alberta for seven years and was Senior Director with a national fundraising consulting firm for over five years.

He was recognized internationally by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals as the Network Person of the year in 2019 among 170 Children’s hospitals in North America. In 2022, Mike was recognized as the Global Impact Award Honoree representing Canada by the Young Presidents Organization, a global leadership community of CEOs. He was awarded the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2022 for outstanding contributions to his community.

Fun fact: In 2019, Mike and 11 donors scaled Mount Kilimanjaro! They raised over $1 million towards children’s health for the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation.

The event will involve 1.5 hours of the education session, followed by one hour of networking. Food and drinks provided.

Members: $20.00 +GST

Non-Members: $25.00 +GST

IDEA Book Club

When:  May 8, 2024 from 12:30 PM to 02:00 PM (CT)

Associated with  AFP MB, Manitoba Chapter

With March being Women’s History Month, the IDEA Book Club is spending some quality time with female voices in our sector.  We invite you to join in, reading Collecting Courage: Joy, Pain, Freedom, Love.  Anti-Black Racism in the Charitable Sector edited by Nneka Allen, Camila Vital Nunes Pereira, and Nicole Salmon.  

Join the AFP Book Club on May 2nd  at 11:30 (MDT) and 12:30 (CDT) to discuss the stories and experiences shared in this book and share our own observations and takeaways to make our sector better for everyone.

You can buy the book from Amazon or Civil Sector Press.  Podcasts and videos can be accessed at https://www.collectingcourage.org/ at the bottom of the page, in case you prefer to listen or watch instead of reading.

The IDEA committees of AFP Manitoba and AFP Edmonton & Area are proud partners in the IDEA Book Club.

Location

Online Instructions:

Url: http://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcvcOyqrzkpEtMoo3ZjQ_HT0RKvZO7GJEHg

IDEA Book (Movie) Club - Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution

Date: Thursday, October 19, 2023

Time: 11:30am - 12:30pm (MDT) 12:30 - 1:30pm (CDT)

Description:

It's time for the next Book Club sponsored by the IDEA Committees of AFP Edmonton & Area and AFP Manitoba!  It's a busy time of year for most of us so we decided to focus on a movie this time around.

Join us on Thursday October 19, 2023 as we discuss Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution currently streaming on Netflix.

A documentary from Barack and Michelle Obama’s production company, Higher Ground Productions. Defiant, boisterous and at times shocking, Crip Camp a look back at Camp Jened (located in the Catskills in the US), which welcomed people with disabilities in the 1950s, 60s and 70s when many mainstream summer camps did not and in an era when people with disabilities were sent away to institutions simply because of their disabilities. Accompanied by historical footage from the camp, the film documents the revolutionary spirit that surrounded the camp, and the complex experiences of many of the campers – many of whom went on to be leaders in the disability rights movement in the United States.

Don't have Netflix?  No problem! There is a great discussion about the film from the University of Chicago available on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=emSCFnvZSI4on)

The book club is free to attend but you must register in advance!

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Thursday, October 19, 2023

Breakfast: 7:30 AM

Panel Discussion: 8:00 - 9:00 AM

From the global pandemic to climate change, war and political upheaval, the past few years have seen change on every front. As we are all deeply enmeshed in the ‘daily doing’ of our work, and it can be challenging to try to make sense of how philanthropy is evolving in response to larger societal forces. Yet it is important to slow down, take stock and try to answer the question: how can fundraising meet the moment? While challenges and uncertainties are ahead, there are also many reasons for hope and optimism for the charitable sector. How can we collaborate with donors, partners, and communities to realize the future we envision? In this session, KCI’s Susan Storey will offer insights that will challenge, inspire and perhaps even provoke change in how you and your organization are meeting the moment.

Learning Objectives:

• Develop a detailed understanding of the 6 key trends currently impacting decision-makers in the non-profit sector.

• Dive into examples and case studies from across the Canadian philanthropic landscape that amplify these learnings.

• Be inspired to see themselves and fellow fundraisers as change-makers, meeting the moment and leading positive change for our communities.

About the Speaker:

Susan Storey, CFRE

Susan Storey is a Partner with KCI (Ketchum Canada Inc.) and a fundraising professional with more than 30 years’ experience. Her current work on behalf of KCI includes strategic counsel for studies and campaigns ranging from start-up to $500 million across Canada. In addition, Susan is involved in the creation of multi-year revenue generation plans that comprehensively evaluate potential across all fundraising channels including mass philanthropy, major and planned gifts, corporate giving and sponsorship, special events and social enterprise. Susan has been KCI’s lead consultant for projects in all sectors including arts and culture, education, health, environment, multi-level national and international charities and community-based social service organizations. She has been active with AFP for nearly three decades including serving as President of two Chapters, two terms on the AFP Global Board and as Chair of the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy Canada. Most recently Susan co-chaired a Working Group focused on defining actions for the fundraising profession in Canada related to Truth and Reconciliation.

AFP Edmonton & Area Chapter: Fort Edmonton Indigenous Peoples Experience

Wed, Oct 4, 2023 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM MDT

Fort Edmonton Park

7000 143 Street Northwest Edmonton, AB T6H 4P3

On behalf of AFP Edmonton and Area's IDEA committee, join us for an evening of learning, listening, and reflection at the Indigenous Peoples Experience in Fort Edmonton Park. We've rented out the space for our members and guests to explore life through the diversity of First Nations and Metis peoples. Food and drinks will be provided.

About the Fort Edmonton Indigenous Peoples Experience

The Indigenous Peoples Experience at Fort Edmonton Park is an immersive and comprehensive exhibit. The exhibit explores the rich and beautiful cultures of First Nations and Métis Peoples while encouraging visitors to seek out the truths as lived by Indigenous Peoples before and after Canada became a country. To learn more visit: Indigenous People Experience

We hope you can join us for this private opportunity with our fundraising community.

AFP Networking BBQ
Wednesday, August 16, 2023

In-person Location: Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park - 13221 Buena Vista Rd NW, Edmonton, AB

Registration Deadline: August 14, 2023

AFP Networking BBQ:

4:30 -7:30 PM on August 16 at Laurier Park.

Registration is required as a light meal and beverages will be provided. Bring friends or come on your own. This is a free event to get to know our Chapter.

Everyone is welcome, no membership required!

Event Registration

Registration Deadline: August 14, 2023

https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/afp-networking-bbq-tickets-680606401067?aff=oddtdtcreator

AGM and All About AFP
Thursday, June 15, 2023

Event Agenda
7:30 a.m. Doors Open, Registration
8:00 a.m. Annual General Meeting
8:30 a.m. Networking

In-person Location: Chateau Louis Conference Centre - 11727 Kingsway Northwest, Edmonton, AB

Registration Deadline: June 13th, 2023

AFP Edmonton & Area Chapter invites you to join us for our 2023 Annual General Meeting followed by an opportunity to network with your Chapter!

We miss you and we are excited to bring back in-person events! Register early to save your seat (see registration page below).

Event Registration

Registration Deadline: June 13th, 2023

AFP Edmonton & Area Chapter AGM 2023 Tickets, Thu, 15 Jun 2023 at 7:30 AM | Eventbrite

Breakfast Series:

Grant Writing

Thursday May 18, 2023

Cost: AFP Members - $50.00 +fees, Non Member - $55.00 +fees

7:30 AM Breakfast

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM Session

Setting Yourself up for Success in Grants

In this upcoming session, Amy Gomez will be imparting her valuable insights on effective grant strategies for achieving success. We will be delving into the latest trends, examining the shift in funder priorities in the post-pandemic landscape, and exploring the common challenges faced by organizations nationwide. Rest assured, Amy will be dedicating sufficient time to addressing any pressing grant-related queries you may have. Furthermore, she will be available after the presentation to offer guidance and support in tackling specific challenges.

About the Speaker

Amy Gomez has more than 14 years experience in the charitable/non-for-profit sector with over 10 years focused on grant writing and fund development. Since launching AG Grant Development in 2018, Amy has worked with numerous clients across Canada to increase their revenues through grants. Today, Amy works with 17 diverse clients, representing multiple sectors in Alberta, BC and Ontario. Amy is also a founding member and Vice President of the first Canadian Chapter of the Grant Professionals Association. Together with her grant writer peers, Amy is dedicated to promoting the grant writing profession in Canada and developing professionals with an interest in the field.

Event Registration

Breakfast is included in the ticket price.

IDEA Book Club: Biased: Uncovering the hidden bias that shapes what we see, think and do by Jennifer L Eberhardt

Description:

It’s time for the next Book Club sponsored by the IDEA* Committees of AFP Manitoba and AFP Edmonton & Area on Tuesday, March 28, 2023 from 12:30 to 1:30 pm CT (11:30am – 12:30pm MST).

This time we will examine Jennifer L Eberhardt’s book Biased: Uncovering the Hidden Prejudice That Shapes What We See, Think, and Do. It will give us a chance to become conscious of our own implicit biases in order to be more thoughtful about how we do our work as fundraising professionals and how we engage in daily interactions as human beings.

Eberhardt says that you don’t have to be racist to be biased. Unconscious bias can be at work without our realizing it, and even when we genuinely wish to treat all people equally. Ingrained stereotypes can infect our visual perception, attention, memory, and behavior. This has an impact on all aspects of society: education, employment, housing, criminal justice, and even fundraising. In Biased, Eberhardt brings a perspective that is at once scientific, investigative, and informed by personal experience. Jennifer Eberhardt offers us insights into the dilemma of bias and a path forward.

This is a great opportunity to connect with colleagues, and share thoughts/challenges/best practices around issues of IDEA in our work and life. All are welcome to the discussion (whether you’ve read the book or not).

And if you don’t like reading or don’t have time, check out this series of videos with the author on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLynnNYWbZL3TjUui4ADmt8rfslMveRKij

Join us on March 28. Email Lisa Dayanandan (lisad@christmasbureau.ca) or Lori Stewart (lstewart@ccsonline.ca) if you have questions.

Event Registration

The session is free, but you must register to receive the Zoom link. https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0lf-usqjgoEtV1cfgUQY-hVVyjxtCNVB2p

*Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access

Breakfast Series:

Getting Started in Crypto Philanthropy 

Thursday March 16, 2023

Cost: AFP Members - $50.00 +fees Non Member - $55.00 +fees

7:30 AM Breakfast

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM Session

Session Description:

What to expect when you’re expecting... cryptocurrency donations! Is the idea of accepting cryptocurrency overwhelming? Not sure where to start, or even what all the terms mean? In this session we will take you through the basics of blockchain, and its implications for fundraisers. Almost two years ago, our organization embarked on a journey to embrace crypto as an alternative donation option. Much like the value of Bitcoin, we’ve had our ups and downs. We’ll share our experience venturing into the world of crypto and give you the confidence to start asking for cryptocurrency donations at your organization.

Outcomes:

• Understanding common terms related to cryptocurrency.

• Current crypto fundraising statistics.

• Information to combat commonly held donor concerns over accepting donations of crypto.

• Next steps to get your organization ready to accept cryptocurrencies.

• Resources if you’d like to learn more about crypto and crypto philanthropy.

Speaker Bio:

This Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation fundraising duo has a combined 20 years of experience in the non-profit world. Aimee and Amber have a passion for creating a culture of philanthropy wherever they go. They demand lunch by 11 and prefer if it includes hand pulled noodles, fresh pretzels or a marble cheddar. You can find them analyzing the donor database, crafting campaign appeals and drinking too much coffee.

Event Registration

Purchase your tickets here.

Breakfast is included in the ticket price.

Breakfast Series:

Vulnerability, hope, and philanthropy: ​How cancer (re)shaped my approach to fundraising

Thursday February 16, 2023

Cost: AFP Members - $50.00 +fees Non Member - $55.00 +fees

7:30 AM Breakfast

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM Session

Session Description:

The workload of a fundraiser is tremendous, the demands are extraordinary, and it can be easy to lose sight of the value and importance of philanthropic work. Join Lauren Patterson, CFRE, as she talks about how a rare and aggressive cancer diagnosis changed her view of philanthropy and reshaped her approach to donor conversations. This breakfast session will incorporate Lauren's personal story with technical elements of fundraising, including the ask. Together, we will explore how vulnerability with donors can elevate and evolve the conversation. As fundraisers, we offer hope in ways we often do not realize—our work matters.

Speaker Bio:

Lauren Patterson, CFRE

University of Alberta

lmpatter@ualberta.ca

Lauren Patterson, CFRE, is the Assistant Dean, Development for the Faculty of Arts at the University of Alberta. Lauren is an alumna of the U of A and an MPA candidate at Ohio University. She has been fundraising in the Edmonton community for nearly fifteen years. Before joining the U of A, Lauren worked at MacEwan University and the Canadian Red Cross. She is passionate about building a culture of teamwork and collaboration while advocating the vital role education, teaching, and research play in a vibrant, innovative, and healthy community.

Event Registration

Purchase your tickets here.

Breakfast is included in the ticket price.

Making the Ask: How to speak to our donors about money
Thursday, January 19, 2023

Cost: AFP Members - $50.00+fees Non Member - $55.00+fees

7:30 AM Breakfast

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM Education Session

Session Description:

Have you struggled with getting out of your office and meeting more donors? Have you ever felt paralyzed by having to ask someone for money? Join Sue McCoy as she shares her passion for fundraising. Be prepared to hear stories of how she has elevated the art of asking for money to be about life’s purpose. Sue will dispel the fears you may have when it comes to major gift fundraising and asking for significant gifts. Sue will also share some step-by-step approaches when asking for money so that you walk away from this session with a plan to approach your prospects and donors. 

Outcomes

• Learn a new narrative as a major gift fundraiser

• Hear first hand from examples of how to ask for money

• Learn the important strategies you can use as you cultivate and solicit major gifts

Speaker Bio:

Sue McCoy is a highly skilled development professional and has worked for a variety of nonprofit organizations over the past 25 years. Currently, Sue is employed as the Associate Vice President of Fundraising with the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation, one of Canada’s largest children’s hospital foundations. She oversees a team of professional fundraisers securing over $10 million a year in donations. Prior to the Stollery, Sue worked at KCI as a fundraising consultant. During her tenor with KCI, Sue worked on a variety of capital campaign projects across the country, securing over $300 million in donations. Sue is currently a Board member on the AFP Canada Foundation and the Past President with the Edmonton AFP Chapter. Sue holds an M.A. in Sociology from Carleton University in Ottawa, a diploma in Fundraising Management from MacEwan University and is a Certified Fundraising Executive.

Click here to register!

AFP Edmonton & Area Holiday Mixer

Cost: AFP Members - $40+fees, Non-Members - $45+fees

Join the AFP Edmonton & Area Chapter for our holiday mixer for games, prizes, food and drinks!

4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Hansen Distillery

When the founders, Shayna and Kris, established the Distillery in Edmonton, Alberta, they carried with them a family legacy of moonshiners, outlaws, and survivors. Generations on, that legacy remains in the form of passion, mastery, and a rebel spirit.

Hansen Distillery uses the best ingredients delivered by producers that they know and trust, those producers that allow them to put their boots in the soil that grows our ingredients, to touch, to taste, to understand where the flavours come from.

MASTERCLASS: Effective Solicitation for Tomorrow’s Donors
Thursday, November 10, 2022

CFRE Credit Value:

Cost: AFP Members - $313.98 Non Member - $335.20

8:00 AM Breakfast

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Class

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Lunch

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Class

Session Description:

This session will examine how to prepare for successful solicitation of major gifts using the ‘moves management’ process and practical guidance and techniques in building and using strong donor relationships to enhance your ability to raise major gifts.

Key concepts to be covered include:

• The importance of engaging in donor-centric relationship building by reviewing the fundamentals of moves management

• Exploration of practical techniques needed to take those relationships to money

• Strategic overview of gift solicitation and the elements that influence a gift decision; examining the psychology of a successful ask

• The opportunity to practice solicitation role play

Speaker Bio:

Guy Mallabone, MA, CFRE has been recognized by Alberta Venture Magazine as one of Alberta’s most influential citizens and the Calgary Herald as one of Calgary’s 20 most compelling citizens. Based in Calgary, he is CEO of Global Philanthropic Canada, a national fundraising consultancy.

Guy has been awarded Outstanding Fundraising Executive by AFP Edmonton Chapter (1999) and AFP Calgary Chapter (2011). He is also author and editor of the Globe & Mail best-selling fundraising book, Excellence in Fundraising in Canada.

Guy serves as Adjunct Professor for the Master’s Program in Fundraising at the University of Bologna, Italy; member of the Advisory Board for the Carleton Masters in Philanthropy and Non-Profit Leadership program; and Chairs Canada Advancing Philanthropy, a national professional advocacy committee.

He has served as a fundraising practitioner since 1980 in the Arts, Social Services, and Higher Education sectors. A former member with AFP International Board and the CFRE Professional Certification Board, he holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree and a Master of Philanthropy & Development.

Each guest will receive a copy of Guy's book "Excellence in Fundraising Canada" (value $97)

Event Registration

MASTERCLASS: Effective Solicitation for Tomorrow’s Donors Tickets, Thu, 10 Nov 2022 at 8:30 AM | Eventbrite

Hotel(s) offering your special group rate:

• Delta Hotels Edmonton South Conference Centre for $199 CAD per night

Start Date: Tuesday, November 8, 2022

End Date: Friday, November 11, 2022

Last Day to Book: Thursday, October 13, 2022

Book your group rate for AFP Education Event

Book Club: Decolonizing Wealth by Edgar Villanueva

Description:

The IDEA Committees from AFP Edmonton and Area + AFP Manitoba are hosting a combined Book/Podcast Discussion Group on Thursday, October 27 from 11:30am (MDT)

The first book we will be discussing is Decolonizing Wealth by Edgar Villanueva.  Considered a “must read” for anyone involved in the philanthropic sector.

All are welcome to the discussion (whether you’ve read the book or not).  If you don’t like reading or don’t have time, check out one of the resources or podcasts listed below, instead.  It’s a great way to access the concepts of the book without having to read it:

• The Foundation Review – A succinct review of the book by Juan Olivarez

• Podcasts and Radio Appearances – A list provided on the author’s website

• Philanthropy Must be Decolonized – Michelle Ramos at TEDx Jacksonville

• Decolonizing Wealth Project

Email Lisa Dayanandan (lisad@christmasbureau.ca) or Lori Stewart (lstewart@ccsonline.ca) if you have questions.  

Event Registration

The session is free, but you must register to receive the Zoom link. https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0of-2pqzgpGNDKm5WOx68fLZ1tB5hy7fPD

Breakfast Series: Exploring Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access in Fundraising

Thursday October 20, 2022

CFRE Credit Value: 1

Cost: AFP Members - $45.00 +fees Non Member - $55.00 +fees

7:30 AM Breakfast

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM Session

Session Description:

October 20 will be an education session focused on IDEA. You can be sure it will be informative and a great opportunity to connect with your fellow members and fundraising pros!

Speaker Bios:

Constance Scarlett

Constance Scarlett is a cultural professional with over ten years of experience in the arts and heritage sectors. She has extensive experience in non-profit management, fund development and stakeholder relations.  

Ms. Scarlett has led the fundraising strategies of numerous cultural organizations, including a $41.5 million capital campaign for TELUS World of Science – Edmonton. Having held positions as a funder and fundraiser, Constance has a unique perspective on both sides of the funding relationship. 

Ms. Scarlett’s professional practice is rooted in the belief that arts and heritage institutions maintain their relevance through responsiveness to, and integration with, their communities. This has resulted in a strong community engagement background and expert knowledge of collaborating with people of diverse backgrounds. 

In her current role at TELUS World of Science – Edmonton, Constance builds relationships and collaborates with community to strengthen the organization’s relevance and sustainability.

Zachary Weeks

Born and raised in Edmonton, Zachary has been a spokesperson on disability issues since he was young. He has consulted on a variety of building developments, including the Glenrose's Bill Black Auditorium, the Walterdale Theatre and Rogers Place.

Zachary is humbled to be a voice for the voiceless and considers this to be one of the most significant honours of his life. Zachary is a strong advocate for social justice and often uses his platform to shine a light on important disability issues such as lack of accessibility, ableism, and discrimination. While Zachary is a powerful advocate, he also understands the importance of balance and enjoys spending his free time with friends and family, playing video games, and indulging in good food and spirits. Zachary believes that laughter is the best medicine and tries to infuse humour into everything he does. Zachary was born with cerebral palsy and uses a power wheelchair for mobility. Despite doctors telling his parents that he would never walk, talk, or be able to care for himself, Zachary has defied many expectations.

Zachary was a recipient of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012 and is an alumnus of the Governor General’s Canadian Leadership Conference. He was co-chair of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities planning committee in Edmonton from 2011 to the present. He has been an active member of the City of Edmonton’s Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) since 2013, serving as chair of the Community Engagement Committee until 2016, and then as chair of the AAC until 2019.

Michelle Okere

Michelle Okere is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) with over a decade of experience leading the growth of national, provincial and local non-profit organizations. She is the Vice Chair of PolicyWise for Children & Families, Chair of the Reconciliation Committee for YWCA Edmonton and a member of the Whyte Avenue Rotary Club.

Michelle is recognized for her expertise in fund development; public relations; strategic and operations planning; and human resources, with a focus on equity, diversity and inclusion.

Since 2016, Michelle has been working with non-profits, Foundations, and social enterprises across western Canada to support transformational growth through her consulting company - Okere & Associates.

Passionate about community engagement, Michelle has been featured in PINK Magazine for her work in rural communities, received the Deputy Minister’s Award for Innovation in Saskatchewan for a cross-sector fundraising and awareness campaign, and was named to Edify Edmonton’s Top 40 under 40 Class of 2021.

Erin Davis

Erin Davis (she/her) is an award-winning expert, inspirational speaker, and global thought leader in the field of diversity, equity, and inclusion, helping people feel a sense of connection and belonging. She founded Erin Davis Co. in 2021 and as Lead Inclusion Strategist helps leaders understand their role in creating a more inclusive workplace to unlock creativity and enhance innovation. Erin empowers diversity and inclusion champions at all levels to find their voice and supports their journey to create a more inclusive world, one conversation at a time. She is also a passionate social justice advocate committed to challenge the status quo and helping others to make the same commitment authentically and bravely.

In addition to serving on the board of the Edmonton Business Diversity Network, Erin supported the City of Edmonton’s Community Safety and Well-Being Task Force to develop recommendations to address racism, discrimination, excessive use of force, poverty, and homelessness in the City of Edmonton, and currently serves as a Director with both McMan Youth, Family and Community Services Association, Capital Pride Edmonton, and Explore Edmonton.

She lives in Treaty 6 Territory, Region 4 of the Metis Nation of Alberta, with her husband and two amazing children, where they both work to teach them about a world where inclusion truly matters.

Event Registration

Purchase your tickets here.

Breakfast is included in the ticket price.