2018 Canadian Leadership Retreat Recap

August 14, 2018

On July 26, more than 75 AFP leaders gathered for what has become one of the most popular AFP events in our country: the Canadian Leadership Retreat. This gathering provides a unique opportunity to connect with other fundraising leaders and AFP staff for meaningful dialogue and delve into important matters that affect our profession in Canada.

Organized by AFP Canada and the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy - Canada, the Leadership Retreat is hosted by a different local chapter each year. The Edmonton & Area Chapter graciously hosted the 2018 edition. Their organizing committee did a fabulous job showcasing their city and ensuring that the social side of the weekend was lots of fun!

Attendees worked hard on your behalf and on behalf of our profession. With AFP Canada having just celebrated its one-year anniversary, there was a lot to cover during these meetings. Topics discussed included the new strategic plan for AFP in Canada currently under development, research priorities, and the importance of having a fundraising narrative unique to our country and our voice and perspective. We look forward to sharing more information with you about these exciting initiatives in the near future.

Government Relations is an area in which our country has enjoyed much success—we should all be proud! Canada has something that many other countries envy: a strong charitable sector and a federal government that continues to be receptive to the sector and its needs. We have worked together to have the federal government officially recognize National Philanthropy Day (the only country in the world to have done so). Also, your efforts contributed to the elimination of the capital gains tax on gifts of securities.

This year, the government relations session focused on our second Day in the Ridings event, coming in October of this year. Attendees enthusiastically discussed public policy priorities for AFP and helped identify key issues for AFP to address in its upcoming Pre-Budget Consultations (see related article in this month’s eWire Canada).

Two thought leaders provided the inspiration and outside perspective that is so valuable to these discussions. Dr. Jodi Abbott, president and CEO of NorQuest College, and Dr. Bob Wyatt, executive director of the Muttart Foundation, challenged our thinking on leadership and what is happening in our profession.

Dr. Abbott talked about the importance of building great teams and developing your own personal brand—and gave us tips and ideas on how to do both. Dr. Wyatt discussed public policy and charities and how charities need to stand up and make their voice heard even louder. We can’t be afraid to discuss issues such as fundraising costs and political activity, but at the same time, we need to be clear what our priorities are and what we want government to do. Dr. Wyatt was also gracious and agreed to participate in a short video about what fundraisers and AFP can do in the current environment.

Attendees were indeed very motivated. Not only did they give of their time and talent, they were inspired to donate over $10,000 for our profession. These funds will be used for the National Scholarship Program to create at least ten new AFP Scholarships to attend the International Conference on Fundraising, Toronto Congress and other great programs.

The 2018 Canadian Leadership Retreat was a great success. Thanks to everyone for their participation and support.

Adam Zawadiuk, CFRE, past-president of the AFP, Edmonton & Area Chapter welcomes attendees to the 2018 Canadian Leadership Retreat!

Roger Ali, CFRE, chair of the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy – Canada recognizes Beth Ann Locke for her work on the Foundation Board of Directors.

AFP Chief Advocacy and Strategy Officer Jason Lee reminds Canadian attendees diplomatically (not!) of which team won the Stanley Cup.

The event would not have been possible without the amazing support of our sponsors. Thank you to all of our sponsors for helping us to build our profession! We so much appreciate your support and the insight and resources you provide to help all fundraisers.

2018 AFP Canadian Leadership Retreat Sponsors:

Every Member Campaign Sponsors: