This year, I’ve moved from serving as Secretary on the AFP Greater Vancouver Board into the role of Vice President, Government Relations. I’ve spent most of my career as a fundraiser, but increasingly I find myself thinking about what happens around philanthropy—the policies, systems, relationships and government decisions that shape both the needs in our communities and our ability to respond. In my day job with the First Nations Health Foundation, those intersections are part of my work every day, so this portfolio feels like a natural fit.
One of my goals this year was to grow our Government Relations work by forming a committee, and I’m grateful to Gillian Der and Jeanneth Jacome for joining me. Together, we want to help our members better understand the policy environment around us, bring different perspectives and learnings to our community, and create opportunities for dialogue and engagement. We’ll also stay closely connected to AFP Canada and its Government Relations Committee, which leads AFP’s national advocacy work.
You’ve already seen us in action through our two Government Relations blog posts so far. Earlier this year, we looked at BC Budget 2026 through a social profit lens, and this month our committee explored BC’s Anti-Racism Action Plan and what it could mean for our sector. We want to keep asking: What should fundraisers know about what’s happening around us, and why does it matter to our work?
And as we head into September, I’m also thinking about the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30. My work at the First Nations Health Foundation gives me the privilege of learning from First Nations leaders and communities, and those relationships continue to shape how I think about philanthropy, partnership and the responsibility we each have to keep learning. I hope September gives all of us opportunities to listen, learn and reflect—on that day and beyond as we approach our work and relationships throughout the year.
Gillian, Jeanneth, and I look forward to sharing more with you throughout the year. If there’s a government or public policy issue you think our fundraising community should better understand, we’d love to hear what’s on your radar.
For now, I’ll be doing my best to spend a little more time with my family, enjoying these beautiful lands and waters, and I hope you have a wonderful rest of your summer too!
Nathania Fung
Vice President, Government Relations
AFP Greater Vancouver
Final Reminder: Giving Hearts Awards
Nominations for the 2026 Giving Hearts Awards will be accepted until Monday, August 31, at 5:00 PM PT.
Award categories include:
💖 Spirit of Generosity Award sponsored by Global Philanthropic
🌟 Outstanding Youth Philanthropist
🏢 Outstanding Corporation (more than 50 employees)
🌈 Outstanding IDEA Inspiration Award
🏪 Outstanding Small Business (50 employees or less)
🙌 Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser sponsored by PearTree Canada
🏆 Outstanding Legacy Philanthropist
Learn more and submit a nomination: Giving Hearts Awards
It’s back! October Fundamentals of Fundraising Course
New to fundraising or looking to strengthen your foundation? The AFP Fundamentals of Fundraising Course offers two full days of practical learning designed for fundraisers with 0-4 years of experience. Explore the essential elements of successful fundraising — from building relationships and securing gifts to marketing, volunteers, and accountability — led by experienced local fundraising professionals.
Our course faculty includes Kristy James, Ryan Garnett, Andrea Wright, and Grant Monck, with more exciting faculty announcements to come.
📅 October 1-2, 2026
📍 Burnaby Hospital (3935 Kincaid Street, Burnaby, BC)
🎓 16.0 CFRE credits available
Early bird registration ends September 1.
2026 Fundamentals Course Scholarship
The deadline to apply for these scholarships is Monday, September 7, 2026, at 11:59 PM. Only AFP Greater Vancouver Chapter members are eligible to apply. To become an AFP member, please register online. Should you have any questions, please connect with Morgan Won at morgan.won@vghfoundation.ca.
Nonprofit Impact to Influence Conference
How can nonprofits strengthen their influence with government, funders, partners, and the public? Join the Nonprofit Impact to Influence Conference on Wednesday, September 16, a one-day virtual event exploring practical strategies for government relations, AI, data, media, and advocacy. Gain actionable insights to help elevate your organization’s voice and drive greater impact.
Join us: The Fundraising Landscape in Vancouver
What does the fundraising landscape really look like for charities in Vancouver right now? Join AFP Greater Vancouver’s Professional Development Committee for a candid conversation about the financial, social, and political forces shaping our sector — and what they mean for fundraising today and into the future.
📅 Thursday, September 17, 2026 | 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
📍Creekside Community Centre
Featuring moderator Jeff Sodowsky of Global Philanthropic Inc. (Canada) and panellists Chantelle Ohrling of the David Suzuki Foundation, Angelina Li of RBC, and Samantha Rogers of VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation.
Come hear local perspectives, ask questions, and join the conversation about where fundraising in Vancouver is headed.
AFP Global Membership Dues Increase
Effective October 1, 2026, AFP Global will be implementing a membership dues increase. Members who join or renew on or after this date will be subject to the new membership rates for the applicable categories.
For additional information and a full overview of the updated dues structure, please review the 2026 Dues Increase FAQ.
How much is the increase, and for what membership types?
Government Relations Update: Understanding BC’s Anti-Racism Action Plan
What does the new BC Anti-Racism Action Plan mean for the charitable sector? In this Government Relations Committee perspective, explore key highlights from the Province’s plan and learn how its priorities around equity, reconciliation, and access to services may influence fundraising, partnerships, program planning, and funding opportunities. Read the full article for insights and practical considerations for nonprofit professionals.
Save the Date – IDEA Lunch & Learn – October 28, 2026
Join us on Wednesday, October 28, 2026 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM for a webinar on accessibility. Stay tuned as we finalize details in the weeks to come.
History of Vancouver Pride Celebrations
In Canada, however, August holds its own significance. On August 28, 1971, hundreds of LGBTQ+ Canadians gathered in Ottawa and Vancouver for the “We Demand Rally,” the country’s first large-scale public queer demonstrations, calling for an end to discrimination, police harassment, exploitation, and pressures to conform. While progress was slow, including the violent 1981 Toronto Bathhouse Raids, many discriminatory laws remained in place for decades. The repeal of remaining discriminatory laws continued through 2017, with conversion therapy banned in 2021 and Canada’s remaining gay indecency laws repealed in 2023. Celebrating Pride in August honours the long and difficult history of Canada’s LGBTQ+ rights movement and the courage of those who first stood up and demanded equality.
August & Upcoming Days of Significance and Celebration
August 12 – International Youth Day
August 15 – National Acadian Day
August 17-21 – Public Service Pride Week
August 19 – World Humanitarian Day
August 28 – We Demand Rally Anniversary (Why Ottawa/Vancouver Pride is in August)
August 31 – International Overdose Awareness Day
September 10 – World Suicide Prevention Day
Welcoming Our Newest Members
A very warm welcome to the following AFP Greater Vancouver members joining us this month:
- Chetna S.
- Hannah T.
- Kate W.
- Kris A.
- Meena D.
- Pegah B.
- Shelina J.
- Tanisha C.
Organizational Member Spotlight: Chinese Canadian Museum
We’re pleased to spotlight the Chinese Canadian Museum as an AFP Greater Vancouver Organizational Member. Located in Vancouver’s historic Chinatown, the museum connects people to the stories, histories, and contributions of Chinese Canadians through exhibitions, programs, and community partnerships. Its mission is to connect to the Chinese Canadian story while advancing inclusion and understanding for all.
Opened in 2023, the museum creates experiences that elevate voices, enrich learning, and foster dialogue across cultures and generations. In 2024, it received the Governor General’s Award from the National Trust for Canada in recognition of its impact in preserving and sharing Chinese Canadian history.
Did you know? With an AFP Greater Vancouver Organizational Membership, your entire fundraising team can access industry-leading learning opportunities, connect with peers across the sector, and raise your organization’s profile within the fundraising community. It’s a valuable way to strengthen your team while amplifying your impact.
🔗 Discover the advantages of Organizational Membership and meet the organizations helping strengthen our fundraising community.
Find Your Next Opportunity 🔎
Explore new career opportunities or connect with your next great hire through the AFP Job Board. AFP members can also share job postings and receive $100 off listing fees.
- Wilder Institute – Senior Development Officer, British Columbia (August 27)
- BC Children’s Hospital Foundation – Strategic Partnerships Manager | Contract (August 28)
- Level the Field – Philanthropy Manager (September 8)
- VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation – Philanthropy Advisor | 18-month (September 13)
- Greater Vancouver Food Bank – Manager of Major Gifts (September 14)
- Victoria Hospitals Foundation – Senior Philanthropy Associate – Major Gifts (September 14)
- Simon Fraser University – Direct Response Manager, Annual Giving (September 18)
- Family Services of Greater Vancouver – Manager, Corporate and Community Giving (September 30)
Volunteer With Us!
Looking to expand your network, build new skills, or give back to the fundraising profession? AFP Greater Vancouver offers a variety of volunteer opportunities to match different interests, experience levels, and availability.
Not sure where to start? Explore our current opportunities to learn more about the different ways volunteers help shape our chapter and support the fundraising community. We’ll also be hosting a Volunteer Information Session in the coming months, so stay tuned for details.
👉 View our 2026 Committees to learn more.
A Special Message from AFP Global
Congratulations to the Greater Vancouver Chapter as it approaches its impressive 30-year anniversary in 2026! What an extraordinary achievement! I am thrilled to extend my congratulations to you and your team. Your dedication to advancing ethical fundraising and promoting philanthropy in your local community is nothing short of inspiring.
The exceptional contributions of the AFP Greater Vancouver Chapter, empowering fundraisers and charities to seize opportunities and overcome challenges, cannot be overstated. Through your efforts, you have created a vibrant community for fundraisers in your local area. Your dedication to nurturing and strengthening these bonds of community has proven pivotal for our collective growth. I am grateful for your unwavering support from the fundraising community.
It is undeniable that our association owes much of its success to the dedication, hard work, and passion exhibited by your chapter since its inception in 1996.
On behalf of the AFP Global Boards and the AFP Global staff, congratulations as your chapter approaches this milestone. We look forward to continuing our collaboration and to the achievements that lie ahead.