Reflecting on Leadership and Compassion: Insights from Denise Praill, CEO of Canuck Place

Leaders often find their paths shaped by the organizations that they serve. These experiences mould not only their professional acumen but also their personal growth. With her decade-long tenure at Canuck Place Children’s Hospice, Denise Praill , CEO, shared insights into her leadership journey, her inspiration, and the valuable lessons learned along the way.

Denise's journey with Canuck Place has had a profound impact on her leadership style and her outlook on life. At the heart of this transformation lies the daily experience of witnessing love and acts of service. The immersion in a culture of compassion, she explains, has not only shaped her as a leader but as a person. It's clear that the opportunity to learn from the children, families, volunteers, and the team has been an ongoing source of growth and wisdom.

The cornerstone of Canuck Place's success, according to Denise, lies in its people. The dedicated team, volunteers, children, families, donors, partners, and the community at large constitute an inspiring constellation of individuals. This unique blend of talents and hearts, she argues, creates an environment that is hard to replicate elsewhere. It's the tapestry of humanity that weaves the fabric of Canuck Place's impactful work.

“Because of the work of Canuck Place, motivation must come from each individual and I’m certain that motivation varies across our team and volunteers,” Denise explains. “I think ?key characteristics thisteam shares are ?tremendous compassion, a dedication to service and a love for humanity.”

Addressing the challenge of maintaining passion and commitment in the face of emotionally taxing circumstances, Denise speaks of the intrinsic motivation that drives the team. At Canuck Place, she highlights, each individual draws from their wellspring of compassion and dedication to service. This commitment involves not letting down teammates when the going gets tough. It's a dedication to the mission that fuels their resilience.

Denise's insights into fundraising and the non-profit sector underscore the centrality of relationships. She stresses the importance of connecting with people, fostering trust, and building community. She believes authenticity and shared values are pivotal in forging partnerships with donors and communities. This perspective aligns perfectly with the evolving landscape of fundraising, where personalized approaches and meaningful connections take center stage.

“Relationships build trust and community and invite conversation,” Denise shares. “We can’t do this work without listening to and understanding the children and families we care for… and each other, what our goals and individual motivations are when we come to work.”

Considering the trajectory of fundraising, Denise envisions a future where donors become even more aligned with causes they're passionate about. Technological advancements have leveled the playing field, enabling access to virtual tools and platforms. This shift empowers donors to exercise more personalized approaches, fostering a deeper and sustained impact in their chosen areas of philanthropy.

Looking ahead, Denise's goals and aspirations for Canuck Place are reflected in a desire to leave the organization better than when she joined. This holistic vision encompasses talent, influence, partnerships, resources, and financial sustainability—all essential components to ensure the ongoing service to children and families in British Columbia and the Yukon for generations to come.

In parting, Denise offers sage advice for those new to leadership roles. She emphasizes the importance of active listening, trust, vulnerability, and collaboration. Leaders should not be expected to have all the answers; rather, they're tasked with fostering an environment of unity and shared purpose. Walking the floors, engaging in hallway conversations, and connecting on a human level are crucial aspects ofthis journey.

“You will never know all the answers…and you’re not supposed to! I believe leadership is about collaboration, uniting a team towards a shared vision… there are lots of twists and turns and learning along the way.”

Denise’s journey as the CEO of Canuck Place is a testament to the profound impact an organization can have on a leader's growth. Her insights highlight the transformational power of compassion, the significance of fostering meaningful relationships, and the role of authentic leadership in making a lasting difference.

As we navigate our own leadership paths, Denise's story reminds us to remain open to learning, to cherish the people who shape our endeavors, and to continually strive to leave a positive, lasting legacy. In the world of leadership, as in life, it's the lessons we absorb and the love we cultivate that truly define our impact.