In their latest collection of personal stories, Peter Mansbridge and former CBC producer Mark Bulgutch shine a light on the everyday jobs that keep our nation running and the inspiring people who perform them with empathy and kindness. Ken Mayhew, President and CEO of the William Osler Health System Foundations is the subject of the chapter titled, “The Fundraiser.”
Here, Hilborn Charity eNews talks to Ken about inspiration and career opportunities in the sector.
“Giving” means different things to different people, and talking about money is never easy. How do you enter into a giving conversation in a way that is comfortable for people ?
KM: "Giving" and talking about money is never easy—but honestly, it’s my job. Each individual has their own relationship with philanthropy, shaped by their values, upbringing, financial means, life stages, and lived experiences. For me, the key to entering into a giving conversation comfortably, lies in listening and understanding.
It's crucial to approach each conversation with genuine curiosity and empathy, aiming to understand what motivates the person in front of me. I focus on the impact their potential gift could have, regardless of its size. I highlight stories and outcomes that resonate with their values and passions.
Meeting donors where they are is essential.
For some, a donation of $250 might be the largest gift they will ever make—reflecting their commitment and generosity despite their limited resources. It's vital to honour and acknowledge these gifts with the same enthusiasm and gratitude as larger donations. By doing so, we ensure that every donor feels valued and are also helping ensure continued engagement.
Ultimately, my goal is to ensure that each person I speak with feels engaged and empowered to make a difference in a way that feels right for them.
Today, what inspires you in relation to your work as a fundraiser?
KM: Now more than ever, Canadians are dependent on not-for-profits to fill gaps and provide essential services that government and other sectors can’t fully cover. This unprecedented reliance on charitable organizations underscores the importance of our work and the need for a strong, supportive community.
Knowing that our collective efforts can often lead important things such as: seat belt use, smoking cessation, baby formula, treatments for MS, better health care and stronger communities, is what inspires me.
The persistence, drive, and dedication required in fundraising are worthwhile because the alternatives are stark. The impact of our work is more critical than ever, and that drives me to continue making a difference.
The decline in charitable donations in Canada over the past 25 years, underscores the urgency and importance of the work we do as fundraisers. For instance, tax filer data reveals that only 17.1 per cent of Canadian tax filers claimed charitable donations in the latest report, significantly lower than five years ago when it stood at 20.0 per cent. This decline has persisted through various economic conditions and intensified during the pandemic, with three of the four worst years for declining donation rates occurring since 2020. The economic implications are staggering, with the decline likely meaning charities will have $3 billion less a year to fund their missions.
Understanding these trends and challenges inspires me to continue fostering connections and engagement within our community. It is the fuel for my decades of advocacy work through AFP Canada.
It is crucial to reverse the decline and cultivate a society that values deep connections and active participation in charitable giving.
As an employer, and based on your own experiences, what kind of career opportunities does the nonprofit sector offer?
KM: As someone who has spent the better part of my career in the nonprofit sector, I can tell you firsthand that the opportunities available are incredibly varied and rewarding. From fundraising to program management, advocacy, communications, and beyond, there's a role for just about every skill set and passion.
Whether you're driven by a desire to make a difference in your community, a passion for social justice, or a knack for strategic thinking and problem-solving, there's a place for you in this sector.
One of the things I love most about working in nonprofits is the sense of purpose that comes with the job. Every day, you have the opportunity to contribute to something greater than yourself and to be part of positive change in the world—it's incredibly motivating and rewarding.
The nonprofit sector is a growing and rewarding sector. Many seasoned leaders are nearing retirement age, and a record number will step down in the coming years. This turnover presents both challenges and opportunities for the next generation of leaders and for the sector as a whole.
Many of those leaders will not look like me, which is a very good thing. Times have changed, and with it, the face of leadership in our organizations has evolved. We're seeing a more diverse range of voices and perspectives at the table, which is incredibly important for driving change and ensuring that our work remains relevant and impactful.
As I heard Desmond Tutu say, fundraising is a noble profession, and I am excited to be part of a community that is continually examining, critiquing, and seeking to improve what we do and how we do it.
Read part one where Ken talks about community and hearing the word “no” as part of the job.
