Dear friends,


Reflecting on our progress this year, I am continually inspired by the energy and synergy of our Board of Directors. It is a privilege to work alongside such a dedicated group, whose diverse perspectives ensure our chapter truly reflects the community we serve.


As we navigate a landscape of funding gaps and rising demand, your voluntary commitment and expertise ground us. Thank you for your leadership in meeting these challenges and for shaping a resilient, stronger future for AFP Nova Scotia.


Moments in Philanthropy

• Mental Health Impact: The 2026 Push-Up Challenge saw nearly 1,400 participants raise over $62,000 for mental health. Of these funds, $40,000 was dedicated to CMHA Nova Scotia to support vital provincial initiatives.
  
• Provincial Honors: We celebrate the appointment of philanthropists Jack Flemming and Joel Plaskett to the Order of Nova Scotia, recognizing their extraordinary lifelong contributions to our province.


The AFP NS Chapter extends our warmest congratulations to these leaders. Your vision and generosity serve as a powerful inspiration to the entire fundraising community across Nova Scotia.


What’s on the Horizon:


I’m thrilled to announce that AFP Nova Scotia will host the 2026 AFP in Canada Leadership Retreat from July 23–25. This gathering brings leaders from across the country to Halifax to shape the future of our profession.


As Melinda French Gates said: “Philanthropy is not about the money. It’s about using whatever resources you have at your fingertips and guiding them to improve the world.” This is a powerful reminder that our work isn't just about "asking for money"—it’s about helping people find the best way to make an impact.


Thank you for your collective energy and for everything you do to strengthen philanthropy across Nova Scotia.


In partnership and growth,

AFP Leadership Retreat

AFP Nova Scotia Chapter is pleased to welcome AFP leaders from across the country for the 2026 AFP in Canada Leadership Retreat from July 23rd-25th. This annual gathering brings together AFP chapter and national AFP leaders to connect, share insights, and explore key issues shaping the fundraising profession in Canada.

AFP Webinars - May Opportunities

Build your skills and stay current on fundraising trends with AFP Global’s May webinar lineup.

Sessions include:

• Exploring and Demystifying Donor Advised Funds (May 12) 
• The Great Wealth Transfer: Building a Multi-Generational Donor Base (May 1
• Why Direct Mail Should Be a Core Channel in your Fundraising Strategy (May 14) 
• 2025 Trends in Giving: Resilient Growth. Big Opportunities (May 20) 

New for 2026, all live AFP webinars are complimentary for members, making it easier than ever to access high-quality professional development. Explore the schedule and register.

Volunteer Opportunities

Looking to recruit for your board? Need extra hands for a community fundraiser? AFP Nova Scotia is delighted to offer this service to assist with providing professional development opportunities to the members in the philanthropic community. Visit our all-new Volunteer Centre today!

AFP Nova Scotia Fundraising Field Notes

AFP Nova Scotia Fundraising Field Notes is a Substack channel for articles, stories and reflections by fundraising professionals for fundraising professionals. 


Check out, Learnings from a year of using TipTap, our first post by AFP NS Board Member Shaylyn MacAulay. 


If you are interested in contributing to Fundraising Field Notes check out the contributor guidelines and share your idea on our form! 


Reach out to Shaylyn at Shaylyn.MacAulay@nscc.ca if you have any questions.

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