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Monthly Membership Newsletter: February Edition

Dear AFP Greater Vancouver Members,

February invites us into a month of reflection, generosity, and action, as well as being the traditional month of love, these values are at the heart of philanthropy and our work as fundraising professionals.

Throughout February, we recognize Black History Month as an opportunity to honour the leadership, resilience, contributions, and community‑building of Black Canadians. Philanthropy has always been a powerful platform for advancing equity, amplifying marginalized voices, and supporting systemic change. I encourage each of us to reflect on how we, as fundraisers, can continue to champion inclusive practices, elevate diverse stories, and build relationships rooted in respect and accountability.

Random Act of Kindness Day, observed on February 17, was a wonderful reminder that even the smallest gestures of care can create meaningful ripples. Kindness is foundational to fundraising — it fuels donor motivation and reminds us why our work matters. I hope you found a moment to celebrate and inspire kindness in your world, especially on this day.

As always, thank you for your leadership, generosity, and commitment to ethical, community‑centred fundraising. Wishing you a month filled with meaningful connection, learning, kindness and of course love!

P.S. Don’t forget to check out our exciting volunteer opportunities below to connect even further with AFP and fellow fundraisers in our community!

Warm regards,

Lucy Isham-Turner, CFRE
Director of Development, Family Services of the North Shore
President, AFP Greater Vancouver Chapter


Volunteer Opportunities

We’re looking for visionary leaders and passionate volunteers to join AFP Greater Vancouver and help shape what’s next for our sector. Opportunities include Chairs, Co-Chairs, and committee roles — all designed to spark meaningful change, build collaboration, and strengthen our local fundraising community.

To support our volunteer leaders, we’ve introduced a new, generic Chair and Co‑Chair position description that outlines shared leadership expectations, in addition to separate committee‑specific descriptions that reflect the unique focus of each team.

Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting out, your perspective matters. Bring your ideas, your energy, and your commitment to making a difference.

Learn more about our volunteer opportunities.


The AI Advantage: Powering the Future of Smarter Giving

AI is evolving — and so is the conversation around it.

Are you navigating it with confidence? Or still figuring out where to start?

Join us for a dynamic breakfast event exploring the evolving world of Artificial Intelligence.

This isn’t just another tech talk. It’s a gathering designed to spark meaningful conversations — combining intentional networking with a moderated panel discussion featuring leaders who bring diverse perspectives from both within and beyond the fundraising sector.

Our goal: to convene voices that can speak to the opportunities, challenges, and real-world applications of AI — helping fundraisers and nonprofit professionals navigate technology with confidence, curiosity, and inclusion.

Whether you’re AI-curious or already experimenting, this is your space to learn, connect, and ask the questions that matter.

The AI Advantage: Powering the Future of Smarter Giving

📅 Wednesday, April 8, 2026
⏰ 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM
📍 In-person (Vancouver)

🎟️ Early bird pricing ends February 27:
• Members: $45 (regular $50)
• Non-Members: $60 (regular $65)

See you there!

🔗 Register now.


Know a Hidden Gem? 🏛️

We’re searching for welcoming venues across Greater Vancouver to host future AFP events. Studios, galleries, gathering rooms, event spaces — we’re open to discovering something new.

If you have a space (or know someone who does), send us the details.

Have a space to share?
Email us with details — we’d love to connect.


New Member Orientation Webinar – Presented by AFP Global

Welcome to AFP! Your journey continues!

Take full advantage of your AFP membership by joining our virtual, live new member orientation. You can expect to learn more about:

  • Access to Resources: Enjoy exclusive access to a wealth of resources, including webinars, research reports, and industry publications.
  • Professional Development: Take advantage of our extensive professional development programs designed to enhance your skills and knowledge.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers, mentors, and industry leaders through our events, conferences, and online forums.
  • Advocacy and Support: Benefit from AFP’s advocacy efforts that work to advance the fundraising profession and support ethical standards.

Part Webinar, Part Networking! You can also expect virtual breakout sessions to get to know new and seasoned AFP members in a relaxed environment dedicated to fostering connections.

📅 Thursday, March 12
🕔 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM  PT

Visit the New Member Orientation (March 2026) | Association of Fundraising Professionals page to learn more or register directly here.


Welcoming Our Newest Members

A very warm welcome to the following AFP Greater Vancouver members joining us this month:

  • Alyssa G.
  • Gray M.
  • Hannah L.
  • Katrina L.
  • Laura C.
  • Maira H.
  • Maya A.
  • Michelle M.
  • Omira J.
  • Pablo Z.
  • Puneet D.
  • Richard O.
  • Sandra H.
  • Shravan P.


Save the date for National Philanthropy Day 2026!

Mark your calendars! AFP Greater Vancouver’s National Philanthropy Day 2026, presented by RBC, will take place on Friday, November 13, 2026.

Each year, National Philanthropy Day brings our sector together to celebrate the extraordinary generosity, leadership, and community spirit that shape philanthropy across our region. This inspiring afternoon recognizes the individuals, families, organizations, and volunteers whose contributions make our communities stronger and more connected.

Giving Hearts Awards nominations will open in April 2026, with details to be shared soon. We encourage you to begin thinking about the champions in your networks whose impact deserves to be celebrated.

We are also currently seeking industry leaders and community members to join the 2026 organizing committee. National Philanthropy Day is powered by dedicated volunteers from across the philanthropic sector, and community participation is essential to ensuring this meaningful celebration reflects the breadth, diversity, and strength of our field. If you are a passionate philanthropic professional and want to help shape this signature event, we would love to hear from you.

Stay tuned for more details in the coming months and be sure to save the date for November 13, 2026 as we come together once again to honour the spirit of giving in our community.


Organizational Member Spotlight: TELUS

We’re proud to recognize TELUS as an AFP Greater Vancouver Organizational Member. Guided by their long‑standing Give Where We Live philosophy, TELUS is deeply committed to building stronger, healthier communities across Canada. Since 2000, TELUS and its team members have contributed $1.8 billion to charitable and community organizations and volunteer over 1.5 million hours each year, supporting causes that advance health, well‑being, and opportunity for all. Through initiatives like the TELUS Friendly Future Foundation and Connecting for Good programs, TELUS continues to put purpose into action — making a meaningful difference where people live and work.

With AFP Greater Vancouver’s Organizational Membership, your entire fundraising team benefits from professional development opportunities, meaningful connections, and sector-wide recognition—an investment in your people and the impact they create.

🔗Explore the benefits and see our current organizational members


Career Opportunities

Whether you’re hiring or job‑hunting, the AFP Job Board brings fundraising talent and opportunity together. Post a role, explore openings, and move your impact forward.

  • Vancouver Opera 
    • Director of Development (February 19)
    • Manager, Major Gifts & Events (February 21)
  • Surrey Libraries – Manager, Development (February 20)
  • Chemistry Consulting Group – Executive Assistant to the CEO (February 23)
  • The University of British Columbia
    • Director of Development, Sauder School of Business (February 23)
    • Executive Director, Development (March 1)
  • West Island College – Director of Advancement (February 27)
  • Arthritis Society Canada – Director of Brand Marketing & Digital Fundraising (February 27)
  • BC Children’s Hospital Foundation – Philanthropy Manager, Major Gifts (February 27)
  • BC Mental Health Foundation – Executive Director (March 5)
  • The Leadership Institute (dba Hollyhock) – Philanthropy/Development Officer (March 14)
  • Arts Club Theatre – Senior Manager, Major Gifts (March 16)
  • Science World – Chief Executive Officer (March 31)
  • St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation – Chief Development Officer (March 31)

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