Gaby Estrada, Executive Director of Girls Forward Foundation (formerly Fast and Female), shares the organization's journey from its Canmore roots to becoming a nationwide charity empowering girls through sport, physical activity, and education.Girls Forward DetailsFounded in 2005 in Alberta by Chandra CrawfordEmpowered over 34,000 youth across Canada and internationallyRecently rebranded from Fast and Female after 20 yearsCreates brave and welcoming spaces for girls to try new sportsConnects participants with diverse women role modelsProvides evidence-based curriculum focused on transferable skillsPodcast Key MessagesBuilt to Run programs in Bow Valley and Calgary prepare girls for the annual Rocky Mountain Soap Company's Girls Run eventSupporting "Flag Like a Girl" in Edmonton to increase girls' participation in flag footballRole Model program showcases diverse women from local communitiesYouth Advisory Council provides critical input, including guiding the rebranding processCollaborative approach works with local communities to address specific needsWays to support Girls Forward Foundation: follow on social media, volunteer at local events, become a monthly or one-time donor, amplify their message, or reach out to explore other partnership opportunities.About Our GuestGaby Estrada is a passionate leader driven by authenticity, collaboration, and inclusion. As a first-generation Canadian with parents from Guatemala, she is dedicated to creating spaces where everyone feels a true sense of belonging.Since 2018, Gaby has been with Fast and Female, now Girls Forward Foundation, and has held numerous roles, including Event Coordinator, Program Manager, and now Executive Director. She has worked alongside the team to transform the organization into a more inclusive and intersectional charity, overseeing its rebrand and continued growth in empowering girls through sport and education. She holds a Master of Science from the University of Toronto, where her research explored movement-based experiences of racialized women in Scarborough.What is Give Amplify Connect? There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.comPodcast music used with artist permission"Okay" by Ellen Braun
--------
25:47
The Power of Dialogue in Nonprofit Capacity Building
Join Mike Grogan, President and CEO of Integral Org, to discuss the transformative power of conversations in nonprofit organizations and how they can fuel change and collaboration. Learn about the mission of Integral Org to support capacity building and organizational development in nonprofits across Alberta.Key MessagesExploring the role of conversations in facilitating nonprofit changeHighlighting Integral Org's capacity-building approach through education and support Strategies for nonprofit leaders to enhance organizational effectivenessInsights into the complexities of mergers and collaborations within the sector Discussing the importance of accessible resources for nonprofits Encouragement for nonprofits to embrace conversations about their purpose and future Other Links MentionedIntegral Org WorkshopsIntegral Org ToolkitsBow Valley Non-Profit podcast episodeSilver Linings FoundationAbout Our GuestMike Grogan has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 25 years and is recognized for his ability to inspire nonprofit organizations to tackle complex issues and create sustainable solutions to organizational and community issues. His skills and experience stem from a diverse background that encompasses leading backcountry wilderness trips, building organizations from the ground up, and developing leading-edge collaborative and capacity-building initiatives.What is Give Amplify Connect? There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.comPodcast music used with artist permission"Okay" by Ellen Braun
--------
25:35
Bow Valley Non-Profits: Innovation, Collaboration, and Community
The episode examines the evolving landscape of nonprofit collaboration in the Bow Valley, sharing insights from community leaders on how they are working together to address local needs. It highlights the importance of connection, resource-sharing, and the role of funding in supporting their initiatives.Key Messages• Exploring the impact of the pandemic on nonprofit organizations• Overview of the Bow Valley Non-Profits and its web platform• Insights from recent surveys addressing nonprofit challenges• Initiatives for collaborative funding discussions among local funders• Importance of collective events and asset mapping for nonprofits• Details about the successful Bow Valley Non-Profit Summit and attendee feedback• Focus on fostering trust and authentic relationships within the communityAbout the Bow Valley Non-ProfitsBow Valley Non-Profits is a platform that is intended to serve as a central hub for Bow Valley non-profit organizations to access relevant resources, such as funding opportunities and training resources.This includes a functional website designed to help local non-profits quickly and easily find relevant resources. This website content and design are based on feedback from local non-profit organizations. Seed funding to develop this website was provided by the Town of Canmore, with ongoing funding and support provided by the Town of Banff and the Town of Canmore. This website was created for the benefit of local non-profits, with the intention of having non-profit members help to populate and contribute to the quality of the website content. The Municipalities of Banff and Canmore also pool human resources for the advancement of community development work that hosts 2 Non-Profit Collective events annually that offer opportunities for connection, collaboration and learning in a variety of ways. In 2024, Bow Valley Non-Profits teamed up with the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation and Banff Canmore Foundation to host the very first Bow Valley Non-Profits Summit- an evening keynote speaker and day long PD and workshop event intended to amplify collaboration and learning needs that were identified in the 2023 Bow Valley Non-Profits Survey. Connect with Laura Wellmann or Jessica LaBonteWhat is Give Amplify Connect? There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.comPodcast music used with artist permission"Okay" by Ellen Braun
--------
28:05
Empowering Change with Radical Generosity & Shared Resources
What if charities and non-profits could operate rent-free, channeling more resources towards their mission? Join us as we welcome Diana Davis, the Executive Director of the Jerry Forbes Centre Foundation, who shares her inspiring journey from the corporate world to spearheading a transformative model of shared workspaces. Discover how the centre's rent-free, collaborative environment is allowing organizations like Paralympic Sports of Alberta to thrive by redirecting financial savings into their vital programs. Through Diana's insights, we unlock the secrets behind the Jerry Forbes Centre's success in fostering an organic, problem-solving community that redefines efficiency in the nonprofit sector.We also shine a spotlight on the empowering movement of Radical Generosity, a concept that gained momentum during the pandemic and continues to inspire community support through small acts of kindness. Our conversation dives into the Jerry Forbes Centre's pivotal role as a social service hub, where supporting the centre is akin to backing multiple organizations. This episode promises a profound look at the synergetic power of shared resources and the community.Episode Key Messages Overview of Jerry Forbes Centre as a charity for charities• Mission of saving operating costs for nonprofits• Benefits of shared resources and collaboration• Real examples of success among tenants• Challenges faced in fundraising and community awareness• Introduction of the Radical Generosity movement• Invitation to tour the centre and support local nonprofitsAbout Our GuestWith a career spanning various industries, Diana Davis has taken on management roles in accounting, business operations, and entrepreneurship. She joined the Jerry Forbes Centre Foundation (JFCF) in 2016 as part-time Finance Director, and in June 2019, she assumed the role of Executive Director following the departure of Max Scharfenberger. Since stepping into this role, Diana has been responsible for overseeing the Foundation and the Centre, collaborating with the Board of Directors, handling tenant applications, and managing property operations.Outside of her professional life, Diana treasures spending time with her two adult children and her granddaughter. As a lifelong animal lover, her home is shared with a pair of cats and an energetic Belgian Shepherd. She also spends much of my free time with her horse, a passion that has been a cornerstone of her life for over 40 years.What is Give Amplify Connect? There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.comPodcast music used with artist permission"Okay" by Ellen Braun
--------
21:36
Envisioning Tomorrow Today: Stollery Children's Hospital Foundation
Discover the powerful impact that philanthropy can have on children's lives as we speak with Sue McCoy, Vice President of Philanthropy at the Stollery Children's Hospital Foundation. Sue shares her heartfelt journey and connection to the Stollery, shedding light on the remarkable growth and innovative fundraising efforts that support children across Western Canada. Get inspired by their initiatives like the Lifecycle event and Radiothon, and hear the touching story of a new inclusive outdoor play area dedicated to healing through play. Learn about the Meet the Match fundraising event taking place from Dec 2-7 2024, where community support amplifies contributions. Additionally, Sue shares more about the inspiring work of John Cameron Changing Lives Foundation and the Crescendo musical extravaganza, which raises awareness for mental health initiatives in connection with both pediatric hospitals in Alberta. This episode is a celebration of resilience, community support, and the unwavering commitment to giving every child the best chance at a long and happy life. Join us in celebrating the work that is being done each and every day at the Stollery Children's Hospital and find ways to get involved through Stollery Tomorrow & Today as Sue and her team look ahead to supporting future generations of children and families. Episode Key Messages1. Introduction to the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation (1:07)2. Innovative Projects and Impact Story – The Beach (4:42)3. Advocating for a New Standalone Children’s Hospital (8:44)4. Meet the Match Fundraiser (11:17)5. Mental Health and Crescendo Partnership (14:26)About Our Guest Sue McCoy is a highly skilled development professional and has worked for a variety of nonprofit organizations over the past 25 years. Currently, Sue is employed as VP of Philanthropy with the Stollery Children's Hospital Foundation, one of Canada’s largest children’s hospital foundations. She oversees a highly skilled team securing over $40 million a year in donations. Sue has held many volunteer positions in the community including roles on the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Business and Professional Women and the Glenora Community League Board of Trustees. Sue holds an M.A. in Sociology from Carleton University in Ottawa, a diploma in Fundraising Management from MacEwan University and is a Certified Fundraising Executive. Connect with the Stollery on Facebook, Instagram and Linked InWhat is Give Amplify Connect? There’s a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it’s a chance for passionate changemakers to share their story. Learn more at wolfepackwarriors.comPodcast music used with artist permission"Okay" by Ellen Braun
There's a story behind every action. Give Amplify Connect is a podcast from the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation that gives a voice to the Alberta-based charitable organizations creating community impact, changing lives, and making a difference. Driven by honest conversations with host Kristy Wolfe, it's a chance for passionated changemakers to share their story.There is so much hard work and passion going into life-altering work in the nonprofit world. The foundation was looking for an avenue to give those voices a platform—to share their purpose, hopes and dreams with the rest of us. That's how Give Amplify Connect was born. Through unfiltered conversations with leaders of the nonprofit world, the podcast aims to not only inspire listeners but offer an inside look into what keeps these organizations moving forward. The Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation supports local charities in Alberta that are creating opportunities for access to the outdoors and athletics, children and their families, and women's education and leadership. Driven by honest connections, the Give Amplify Connect podcast is a chance for passionate people to share their story and message more broadly. Learn more at www.wolfepackwarriors.com Music: Okay be Ellen Braun www.ellenbraun.bandcamp.com/track/okay