Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
Well, I am a mom of one super sweet little boy, I am a Fanshawe and Western graduate a few times over studying social justice and peace, political science, human services and environmental studies. I’m currently writing a book and have been with Smilezone since moving to Oakville in the fall of 2018!
Did you always know you wanted to work in fundraising or for a non profit organization?
No honestly I spent 7 years in University because I kept changing my mind on what direction I wanted to go! All I knew since day one was that I wanted to do something that was meaningful and would have a positive impact in some capacity. I ended up taking a Not-for-Profit Management program on recommendation of a professor and fell in love with fundraising through that. I thoroughly enjoy writing and interacting with people and fundraising combines both!
How did you get involved with Smilezone?
I spent a lot of time at Sick Kids Hospital myself - among others – and what I remember most is the play room; having a space to escape, play with my brothers and the other kids really helped through the whole process. Smilezone takes this a whole lot further and I knew I wanted to be a part of that magic which lead me to join the Smilezone team 😊
Can you tell us a little bit about your role with Smilezone?
I carry out our fundraising and stewardship initiatives relating to corporate & individual donors, grant writing, campaigns and third-party fundraising. I get to meet amazing people all the time from all walks of life which is amazing.
Can you tell us about some of the reactions you get from donors or potential donors when you tell them about Smilezone and the work we do?
There are often tears I can tell you that! People really connect with the work we do because nothing else out there is like Smilezone. It’s incredible the difference creating a much more positive environment can have on children receiving some kind of medical care - and of course for their families as well. Our donors really understand the impact and that’s why they choose to support us.
What is your favourite part about working for Smilezone Foundation?
Honestly it is incredibly rewarding having a job that you know makes a difference in the world as cheesy as that might sound. You spend a large chunk of your life at work; I feel like you might as well put all of those hours to good use by doing what you can to make your town, city, province, country or what have you, a little bit better. I have pride in working for Smilezone because I can see the difference our work does for kids. I encourage everyone to check out our testimonials if they want to see for themselves 😊
