Inspiring change and fostering community: Natasha Krotez’s vision at Canuck Place

In the evolving landscape of non-profit organizations and fundraising, few leaders stand out with the clarity and commitment to change as Natasha Krotez, Manager of Development and a guiding force at Canuck Place. Through her visionary leadership and innovative approaches, Natasha and her team are not just navigating the complexities of today’s fundraising environment but are also setting new benchmarks for inclusivity, engagement, and sustainable growth.

“An abundance mindset goes beyond the individual realm,” Natasha explains.

“Abundance is now being actioned between organizations to foster shared learning. We are all here for the community. We can learn from each other and believe there are enough resources for all of us to thrive and support our missions.”

Natasha volunteers as a fundraising mentor, with her local community garden society, and frequently collaborates on social change initiatives. With 20+ years of experience in equity and health organizations, she believes philanthropy can support systemic change. Natasha lives with her wife and young child on the unceded traditional territory of the x?m?θk??y??m (Musqueam), S?wx?wú7mesh (Squamish) and Sel?íl?witulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, for which she is grateful.

Adapting to a transforming landscape

The fundraising sector has undergone significant transformations in the last few years, with changes accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, a heightened awareness of mental health, and an increasing focus on social equity. Natasha observes that supporters now seek deeper engagement and understanding of the impact of their contributions, necessitating a shift in how organizations approach fundraising and communication. This shift goes beyond meaningful donor engagement, but also supports the well-being of the committed staff who play a crucial role in generating revenue and fostering positive change.

Natasha's reflections on the changing fundraising landscape highlight the importance of adapting to meet these evolving needs, emphasizing enhanced impact reporting, inclusive practices, and the vital efforts for Truth and Reconciliation and racial equity.

“The fall of 2022 was a time of transition for me, stemming from a major family health event that needed support and gave me pause to re-evaluate my career,” explains Natasha. “I considered moving into roles focused on communications and advocacy, however conversations I had with many folks, including the amazing hiring team at Canuck Place, re-affirmed my commitment to fundraising. I still love being part of connecting supporters with causes they care about!”

An approach to adaptation: Who, how, and why

Under Natasha's leadership, Canuck Place has embraced a comprehensive strategy to adapt to these changes:

Who: By auditing fundraising and communications practices for inclusivity and creating spaces for community involvement, Canuck Place is working to ensure that their strategies resonate with the diverse needs of their supporters and the broader community.

How: The adaptation involves employing digital tools, virtual events, and cross-departmental collaboration, all aimed at fostering deeper engagement and understanding among supporters and volunteers.

Why: The core of Natasha's approach lies in sharing the unique aspects of pediatric palliative care, reducing stigma around grief and loss, and building a supportive, inclusive community. This not only supports the sustainability of the fundraising sector but also supports progress and collaboration in the broader charitable ecosystem.

Foundational principles and values

Natasha's foundational principles for supporting the future growth of fundraising at Canuck Place are both inspiring and instructive. Community-informed storytelling that honours lived experiences and agency of program participants, practicing inclusive fundraising, and prioritizing ethics and accountability are just the tip of the iceberg. Her belief in the power of listening, understanding, and the possibility for sustainable growth underlines a deep commitment to meaningful, long-term relationships that benefit children and families at the heart of Canuck Place's mission.

A vision for the future

What excites Natasha about the future of fundraising is the potential for innovation and collaboration. From embracing technological advances to fostering an abundance mindset that encourages shared learning and resources, her vision is a community that supports one another in pursuit of a common goal. The emphasis on team well-being alongside the demand for revenue growth highlights a balanced approach to leadership that values care as much as performance.

“I am excited about technological advances and innovation, from more responsive CRMs, to equitable data practices and AI, to improvements in how we analyze digital fundraising tactics,” Natasha says. “Innovation and collaboration are increasing every year, and with it are opportunities for learning and unlearning, through movements like? Community-Centric Fundraising, workshops at Namaste Data, Recast Philanthropy, Unstoppable Performance Leaders, Mending the Chasm or the New School of Fundraising, and sector leaders like Imagine Canada and the Philanthropist Journal.” ?

Acting from hope and inspiration

Natasha’s journey and leadership at Canuck Place can inspire anyone looking to make a difference in the non-profit sector and beyond. Her dedication to inclusivity, community engagement, and sustainable growth not only advances the mission of Canuck Place but is an example of how organizations can navigate the challenges and opportunities of the modern world with grace, compassion, and innovation. Her work is a compelling invitation to join in the effort to make a difference, one that resonates with deep understanding, shared learning, and a collective commitment to both supporting and listening to the community. ?