Cause Leadership Podcast

Summary:

Cause Leadership Podcast, Dave Hutchinson sits down with Jamie McIntosh, a three-time INGO CEO with 25 years of experience in the Canadian humanitarian sector. Jamie has led organizations including International Justice Mission Canada, World Renew, and Mercy Ships Canada, and was VP of Philanthropy and Partnerships at both World Vision Canada and Compassion Canada. Jamie now serves nonprofit leaders through The Leader's Guide.

In this episode, Jamie shares lessons from launching an international nonprofit from his spare bedroom, leading through deeply difficult humanitarian contexts, navigating shared CEO leadership, building healthy board relationships, pursuing education mid-career, stewarding donor trust, and carrying the personal cost of leadership.

Key Takeaways:

• Leadership is about calling people into a shared vision, not possessing every skill yourself.

• Get in over your head when necessary, but surround yourself with people whose gifts complement your own.

• Humility and adaptability are essential leadership disciplines.

• The emotional weight of humanitarian leadership requires strong spiritual, relational, and professional support.

• Co-leadership can provide invaluable shared wisdom when built on trust, candor, and clarity.

• Boards and CEOs need explicit agreement about governance, authority, accountability, and boundaries.

• Leaders must learn to relinquish control and build organizational bench strength.

• Perpetual learning keeps leaders from becoming stagnant.

• Donor resources should be treated as a sacred trust, regardless of the size of the gift.

• Organizations should be willing to acknowledge when something isn't working and change accordingly.

• The future of philanthropy will require organizations to demonstrate their distinctive value and bring donors closer to the communities they support.

• Faith-based leaders can bring their faith into secular spaces by being authentic, listening first, building common ground, and serving with humility.

• Leadership requires courage, particularly when convictions carry a personal or professional cost.

• Leaders don't have to navigate difficult seasons alone.

Chapters:

00:10 Introduction to Jamie McIntosh and His Journey

01:28 Founding International Justice Mission Canada

08:59 Emotional Challenges in Humanitarian Work

19:00 The Dynamics of Shared Leadership at World Renew

20:56 Insights to Advise Current Leaders

23:11 The Importance of Board Relationships

30:23 Pursuing Education and Continuous Learning

35:49 The Bottleneck of Leadership

37:34 Stewarding Donor Trust and Mission

45:10 The Evolution of Donor Relationships

49:24 Faith and Leadership in the Charitable Sector

54:44 The Cost of Leadership and The Leader's Guide

Guest Bio:

Jamie McIntosh has spent 25 years at the senior leadership table of some of Canada's most recognized humanitarian organizations — serving as CEO of World Renew, IJM Canada, and Mercy Ships Canada, and as VP of Philanthropy and Partnerships at both World Vision Canada and Compassion Canada.

He now leads The Leader's Guide, a strategic counsel and governance advisory practice, where he works with nonprofit and INGO leaders navigating complexity, decision-making under pressure, and the kind of leadership formation that actually sustains a mission.

Jamie writes Waypoints, published on Substack and LinkedIn — a series for leaders navigating complexity with grace and gravity, with nearly 900 subscribers drawn from the ranks of senior leadership around the world — and holds frameworks for organizational decision-making that have been stress-tested across decades of C-suite leadership in the sector.

He's an ordained minister, with an earned Master's degree in international human rights law from Oxford University, and brings to every conversation a rare combination: the practitioner's passion and the scholar's reflection.

Connecting with Jamie:

Jamie invites nonprofit leaders, executives, boards, and organizations to connect through The Leader's Guide, where you'll find leadership resources, diagnostics, coaching, and opportunities for accompaniment.

Website: theleadersguide.ca

Jamie is also active on LinkedIn and Substack, where he shares leadership reflections through Waypoints.

E-mail: [email protected]

Website: https://theleadersguide.ca/

linkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theleadersguide/

Personal linkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiemcintosh1/

Waypoints Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/the-leader%E2%80%99s-guide-waypoints-7375325532227338241/

Summary:

What does effective nonprofit leadership look like in today's uncertain political and economic climate? In this episode of the Cause Leadership Podcast, host Dave Hutchinson speaks with Dan Murray, President and CEO of Opportunity International Canada, about leading a thriving charitable organization while navigating economic uncertainty, global challenges, and donor priorities.

Dan shares why international development continues to be essential in communities experiencing extreme poverty and explains how Canadian donors can make an outsized impact through microfinance, entrepreneurship, business training, and practical financial tools that help families build sustainable incomes and lasting economic independence.

The conversation also explores the key ingredients of organizational health and charity leadership. Dan discusses why humility, empowered leadership teams, strong organizational systems, and cross-department collaboration are critical to long-term success. He offers practical strategies for leading remote and hybrid teams, emphasizing the importance of intentional communication, relationship-building, and regular in-person connection.

Dave and Dan also examine several of the most pressing leadership issues facing nonprofits today, including board governance, CEO succession planning, staff retention, burnout prevention, and creating workplace cultures where people can do meaningful work while finding joy and sustainability in their roles.

Whether you're a nonprofit CEO, executive director, board member, fundraiser, or emerging leader, this episode offers practical leadership insights for building healthier organizations, developing stronger teams, and creating lasting impact in the charitable sector.

Chapters:

00:10 Introduction to Opportunity International Canada

01:06 Current Landscape of Charitable Work

02:34 The Case for Global Poverty Alleviation

05:23 Maintaining Credibility and Transparency in Charitable Work

06:47 Building Organizational Health and a Resilient Team Culture

11:07 Remote Work Culture & In-Person Engagement Strategies

14:44 Navigating Global Partnerships While Ensuring Local Autonomy

18:32 Cultivating High-Performing Boards & Leadership Relationships

25:39 Strategies for Recruiting & Retaining Talent

32:49 Succession Planning and Internal Promotions

36:51 Navigating Leadership Transitions

39:29 Self-Care and Sustainability in Leadership

43:10 The Joy of Leadership and Team Success

46:35 Opportunity International: Mission and Impact

Guest Bio:

Dan Murray is the President & CEO of Opportunity International Canada. Opportunity International is a non-profit dedicated to addressing global poverty through sustainable solutions, including microfinance, training, and support.

Dan joined Opportunity International Canada as President and CEO in 2018. With a robust background spanning the charity, business, and public service sectors, Dan has dedicated his career to empowering individuals to improve their lives through innovative and sustainable solutions. In addition to his work with Opportunity International Canada, he has served in leadership positions for several non-profits aimed at overcoming the challenges of poverty at a national level.

Before stepping into the non-profit sector, Dan served for over five years as a Trade Commissioner with Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada. His work included strategic assignments on the U.S. and Korean Trade Desks in Ottawa and a four-year posting in Seoul as Second Secretary and Vice-Consul. This international experience shaped his understanding of global economic systems, trade policies, and the role of sustainable business practices in economic development—insights that now inform his leadership in poverty alleviation.

Residing in Ontario with his wife, Brenda, an artist, Dan is a proud father and grandfather. He enjoys the company of his beagle, and loves spending time in the great outdoors. For the past three years, he has dedicated his personal time to hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, raising funds through OIC's Walking People Out of Poverty initiative.

Connecting with Dan:

website: https://opportunityinternational.ca/

linkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/opportunity-international-canada/

Personal linkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-murray-5017ab

Summary

In this episode of the Cause Leadership Podcast, host David Hutchinson sits down with Ellen Graf-Martin, Founder and President of Graf-Martin Communications, for an inspiring conversation about insights on trends in the charitable sector, leadership transitions, branding, crisis management, and the importance of community building. Discover how her agency supports organizations in growth, crisis, and innovation.

Key topics

• Trends in the charitable sector
• Leadership transition and talent development
• Branding and marketing strategies for nonprofits
• Crisis communication and risk management
• Community building and donor engagement

Sound bites

• "Engage the right community, not just donors."
• "Clarity on mission and brand unites the team."
• "Crisis plans reduce risk and build trust."

Guest Bio: Ellen Graf-Martin, Founder & President, Graf-Martin Communications - Marketing for Good

Ellen Graf-Martin is the founder and President of Graf-Martin Communications, a creative agency specializing in integrated brand strategy, marketing, public relations and crisis communications.

With over two decades of experience, Ellen has taken her strategic insight and passion for empowering organizations to help guide respected brands and organizations like THE CHOSEN, Compassion Canada, Bible League Canada, Open Doors Canada, Children's Health Foundation and Karis Disability Services. Ellen and her team at Graf-Martin excel at providing clients with innovative and tailored approaches to not only meet their needs but increase their impact.

Ellen's induction into the Canadian Marketing, Advertising, PR, and Communications Hall of Fame in 2023 is a testament to her contributions. Her pursuit of excellence and understanding of the non-profit sector positions her as a visionary leader and champion for leveraging exceptional marketing for social good.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Trends in the Charitable Sector

03:04 Challenges Facing Charitable Organizations

05:45 Leadership Transitions and the Next Generation

08:18 The Role of Coaching and Mentorship

11:09 Ellen's Journey to the Marketing Hall of Fame

16:45 Diversity in Leadership and Agency Ownership

21:44 The Impact of The Chosen and Co-Designing Solutions

30:02 Strengthening Organizations Through Tailored Solutions

32:33 Crisis Management and Communication Strategies

37:46 The Importance of Preparedness in Crisis Situations

38:16 Building Community and Leadership Among Women

40:54 Self-Care and Sustainability in Leadership

44:31 Talent Challenges in the Charitable Sector

52:45 The Future of Fundraising and Community Building

Connecting with Ellen:

Email: [email protected]

website: www.grafmartin.com

linkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/graf-martin-communications-inc/

Personal linkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellen-graf-martin-1857999/

Summary:

In this episode of the Cause Leadership Podcast, Dave Hutchinson is joined by Tim Cestnick—one of Canada's leading voices in tax and personal finance— who shares his insights on strategic philanthropy, the importance of understanding family values, and how philanthropists can maximize their impact through thoughtful giving. They also explore the evolving landscape of charitable giving in Canada, from policy shifts to engaging the next generation of donors.

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction and guest background

04:15 - Foundations of strategic philanthropy and family legacy

06:39 - The purpose and definition of strategic philanthropy

09:40 - The seven faces of philanthropy and motivations

11:20 - How family values influence giving behavior

15:50 - Mistakes in giving: allocation, over-conservatism, and asset choices

19:00 - The future of philanthropy in Canada and risk considerations

21:00 - Trends in Canadian giving: the wealth transfer opportunity

23:00 - Policy environment: tax benefits, legislation, and advocacy

27:00 - The role of community vs. private foundations & donor advised funds (DAFs)

30:00 - Engaging the next generation: education, conversations, and values

36:00 - How younger donors are approaching giving differently

44:00 - Building relationships with professional advisors and charities

50:00 - Observing the impact of policy on charitable contributions

56:00 - Overcoming the "poverty mentality" and encouraging giving

Guest Bio: Tim Cestnick

Tim Cestnick enjoys a reputation as one of Canada's most respected experts and public speakers in the areas of tax and personal finance. Tim is Co-Founder & CEO of Our Family Office Inc., one of Canada's leading wealth advisory firms to affluent families.

Tim consults and speaks in all areas of personal finance. In addition to his CA designation, he is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), Certified Public Accountant (Illinois), a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), and a Trust and Estate Practitioner (TEP).

Tim's national speaking profile is confirmed by his position as a personal finance columnist for the Globe & Mail's Report on Business, Canada's national newspaper. He has authored 18 best-selling books, and is a regular contributor and on-air personality on radio and television. He appears regularly on CTV, CBC Newsworld, BNN, and the best-known money programs in the country.

Tim and his wife Carolyn have three children and two dogs. All are hockey fanatics – especially his dog.

Connecting with Tim:

website: www.ourfamilyoffice.ca

podcast: https://ourfamilyoffice.transistor.fm

linkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ourfamilyoffice

Personal linkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timcestnick/

Join us as Jason Hildebrand, visionary leader of Presence Creative Arts, shares his inspiring journey of integrating faith and the arts to transform culture. Discover how storytelling, authentic leadership, and spiritual practices are shaping the future of faith-based arts and community engagement.

In this episode:

• Jason details the transition from acting to faith-driven arts, emphasizing collaborative projects and cultural influence

• He shares insights on fundraising as a faith-led journey, trusting divine timing and building donor relationships

• The story behind "The Shepherd and the Sound," a film exploring King David's life and its message of healing

• Creating space for authenticity and silence in a culture overwhelmed by noise

• Tips for leaders and artists to stay creatively and emotionally healthy through spiritual rhythms and practices

• The importance of storytelling in shaping culture and rewriting language around faith for a modern context

• Church, arts education, and mentorship: nurturing the next generation of faith-based creators

Guest Bio: Jason Hildebrand

Creative Principal

Part storyteller, part creative catalyst — Jason leads the team at Presence Creative Arts where he serves as a performer, communication and storytelling coach, theatre and film producer, and writer. For close to 25 years, Jason has partnered with faith-based organizations, film and theatre companies, and educational institutions as an artist/coach around the world. He recently completed a Master of Fine Arts in Performance Creation from York University in Toronto.

Jason is most recognized for his acclaimed solo and duo theatre performances and coaching of leaders and artists in areas of authentic performance, storytelling, and communication. He and his team have brought artistic direction to multiple The Alliance in Canada's National Assemblies, Hear the Music Ministries' Levite Summit events, as well as numerous Canadian events. Jason has overseen the development and production of many films and a multi-cast radio play. His film THE PRODIGAL TRILOGY has won multiple awards around the globe. His film BREATHE… was developed in partnership with The Salvation Army in Canada, Bermuda and Australia. Through the craft of Spirit-led performance and communication, Jason is passionate about "drawing out the gold" in individuals and groups. He is excited to see them step into the fullness of who they are created to be and significantly impact the world in their care. Jason lives in Toronto, Canada with his wife and four children.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jason Hildebrand and Presence Creative Arts

01:13 The Journey of Presence Creative Arts

05:52 Fundraising Challenges and Lessons Learned

09:31 Transformative Storytelling in Leadership

12:16 Coaching Executives and Leaders

15:50 The Shepherd and the Sound: A New Film Project

16:20 The Genesis of The Shepherd and the Sound

21:16 The Impact of the Psalms and Community Engagement

31:14 Navigating Chaos: Seeking Peace in a Turbulent World

32:34 Transformative Experiences: Audience Reactions to the Film

35:24 Generational Engagement: Connecting Across Age Groups

37:20 Creative Practices: Staying Emotionally Healthy and Inspired

40:58 Legacy and Impact: Building a Future for the Arts

46:37 Crowdfunding Success: The Chosen and New Storytelling

51:23 Nourishing the Soul: The Future of Faith-Based Arts

Connecting with Jason:

The Shepherd & The Sound Film Project: https://theshepherdandthesoundfilm.com/

Website: https://www.presencecreativearts.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonhildebrand/

E-mail: https://theshepherdandthesoundfilm.com/contact-us/

Reach out to PresenceCreativeArts for event dates for the Canadian launch of The Shepherd & The Sound film and gallery, and for monthly spiritual storytelling experiences together, and more! They are excited to connect with you on your spiritual journey.

Summary

In this episode of the Cause Leadership Podcast, David Hutchinson interviews Brad Bell, the President and CEO of Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) Canada. They discuss the vital role of MAF in providing help and healing to remote communities through aviation, the significant contributions of Canadian pilots, and the impact of medical missions.

Brad also shares insights on his transition from the tech industry to non-profit leadership, and the importance of fostering an innovative culture within organizations. The conversation also covers challenges in board governance, recruitment, fundraising, cybersecurity, and the implementation of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to enhance organizational performance. Brad emphasizes the need for professional development and succession planning in the non-profit sector, concluding with words of encouragement for leaders navigating uncertain times.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF)

03:06 The Role of Canadian Pilots in MAF

06:02 Medical Missions and Community Impact

09:09 Training the Next Generation of Pilots

11:56 Transitioning from IT to Non-Profit Leadership

18:01 Leadership Lessons from Non-Profit Experience

20:47 Board Governance and Recruitment Challenges

26:27 Challenges in Talent Acquisition and Fundraising

27:35 The Complexities of Fundraising in Today's Economy

28:46 Philanthropy vs. Sales: Understanding the Difference

32:20 Cybersecurity: Preparing for the Inevitable

35:25 Implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS)

40:05 The Importance of Professional Development for Leaders

42:11 Succession Planning in the Nonprofit Sector

45:44 Finding Hope in Uncertain Times

Guest Bio: Brad Bell

Brad Bell is the President and CEO of Mission Aviation Fellowship Canada, helping to bring the love of God in tangible ways to thousands of isolated communities around the world. Brad is deeply committed to the Christian community. He began his academic career with a one-year study program at Emmanuel Bible College before studying Mathematics and Computer Science at the University of Waterloo. In 1988, Brad co-founded Campana Systems Inc., a Waterloo based software development company serving the healthcare and auto club industries for 25 years, growing the company organically and through acquisition to an innovative technology-based firm in four countries. Campana was sold in 2014, and Brad was excited to follow God's call in this next stage of his life when he was asked to join MAF as the CEO in 2015.

Connecting with Brad:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradgbell/

MAF LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/mafcanada/

Website - https://maf.ca/

E-mail: [email protected]

Summary

In this episode of the Cause Leadership Podcast, host David Hutchinson sits down with Janet Noel-Annable, CEO of Karis Disability Services, for a rich and inspiring conversation about disability, inclusion, leadership, and the transformative power of community. Janet shares insights from more than three decades of frontline and executive experience, offering a compelling vision for communities where everyone truly belongs.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Karis Disability Services

02:51 Challenges Faced by People with Disabilities

05:23 Service Models and Community Engagement

08:09 Navigating Access to Services

10:37 Funding and Fundraising Strategies

13:42 The Role of Faith in Disability Services

18:08 Leadership Insights and Personal Journey

27:03 Empowering Choice and Control for Disabilities

29:55 Leadership Insights for Aspiring CEOs

35:35 Succession Planning and Emerging Leadership

45:54 International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Guest Bio: Janet Noel-Annable

Janet Noel-Annable is the CEO of Karis Disability Services (formerly Christian Horizons), a faith-based organization providing services and support to people with developmental disabilities. Janet began her career with Karis in 1988 as a developmental services professional in Ottawa, while attending Carleton University. After various promotions, she was appointed as CEO in 2011. Recently, Janet completed her Master of Business Administration through Ivey Business School.

Under her leadership, Karis supports thousands of people in Ontario and Saskatchewan and partners with others to impact the lives of people with disabilities in developing countries. Janet works energetically and collaboratively with many organizations, communities of faith, governments and others, believing that together we have the strength to promote communities where everybody belongs; communities that recognize the importance of all contributors, including those with disabilities.

Connecting with Janet:

Website: www.karis.org

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janet-noel-annable-09073766/

Karis LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/karis-disability-services/

Summary

In this episode of the Cause Leadership Podcast, David Hutchinson speaks with Jeff Good, a Principal at Cresa, about the intricacies of real estate for nonprofits and charities. They discuss the challenges these organizations face in negotiating real estate, the impact of the pandemic on space utilization, and the importance of hybrid work models. Jeff emphasizes the need for nonprofits to understand their real estate needs, the pros and cons of owning versus leasing, and how to attract talent in a competitive market. The conversation also touches on market trends and predictions for the future of real estate in the GTHA.

Takeaways

• Real estate is often the second largest expense for nonprofits.

• Cresa exclusively represents tenants, avoiding conflicts of interest.

• Nonprofits face unique challenges in real estate negotiations.

• The pandemic has shifted how charities utilize office space.

• Hybrid work models are becoming the norm for many organizations.

• Downsizing or right-sizing office space can lead to significant savings.

• Attracting talent is easier with flexible work arrangements.

• Culture and socialization are crucial for team cohesion in a hybrid environment.

• Market conditions have changed, leading to higher vacancy rates in some areas.

• Flexibility in lease terms is essential for future planning.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Real Estate for Nonprofits

03:12 Understanding Cresa's Role in the Market

05:49 Challenges Nonprofits Face in Real Estate

09:07 The Impact of the Pandemic on Real Estate Needs

11:58 Hybrid Work Models and Space Utilization

17:56 Evaluating Office Space Options

21:49 Ownership vs. Leasing for Nonprofits

26:48 Attracting Talent in a Hybrid Environment

29:55 Culture and Socialization in Nonprofits

38:40 Market Trends and Future Predictions

Guest Bio:

After finishing his undergrad, Jeff spent the next 20 years working with two for-profit organizations, Procter & Gamble and General Mills. In 2005, he moved into the not-for-profit world as a capital campaign fundraiser with the YMCA, and later was recruited to be the President and CEO of Junior Achievement of Central Ontario. More recently, Jeff has served as Principal in the Charity and Non-Profit real estate practice at Cresa since 2011. This provides entirely new ways to create breakthrough opportunities and solve problems for businesses and charities alike. Now Jeff's passion, skills and experience benefit organizations throughout the province.

Connecting with Jeff:

LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/goodworld/ and Cresa Toronto

https://www.linkedin.com/in/goodworld/

https://www.cresa.com/Locations/North-America/Ontario-Canada/Toronto-ON

[email protected]

Download the 2025 Nonprofit Benchmarking Report: https://www.cresa.com/Whitepapers/2025-Canadian-Nonprofit-Benchmarking-Report

Summary

In this episode of the Cause Leadership Podcast, Dave Hutchinson interviews Aki Temiseva, the President and CEO of the United Nations Association in Canada. Aki shares his diverse background, including his upbringing in Zambia and extensive experience in both the corporate and charitable sectors. The conversation explores Aki's leadership journey, the importance of youth engagement in the charitable sector, and the challenges faced by leaders today. Aki emphasizes the need for organizations to adapt and rethink their structures to attract and retain talent, particularly younger generations. He also discusses the role of the United Nations Association in Canada and its mission to promote peace, human rights, and sustainable development.

Takeaways

• Aki's diverse upbringing shaped his worldview and leadership style.

• Youth need platforms and opportunities to lead in the charitable sector.

• Transitioning from corporate to nonprofit requires a passion for purpose.

• Cultural differences impact leadership styles and organizational dynamics.

• The United Nations Association in Canada focuses on grassroots programs and global values.

• Engaging youth is crucial for the future of the charitable sector.

• Organizations must adapt to attract and retain younger talent.

• Leadership requires a balance of risk-taking and informed decision-making.

• Building an ecosystem of hope is essential for effective leadership.

• Core values should never be compromised, even in challenging times.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Aki Temiseva and Leadership Journey

05:56 Early Leadership Experiences and Youth Engagement

11:01 Transition from Corporate to Charitable Sector

18:48 Navigating Cultural Differences in Leadership

26:52 The Role of the United Nations Association in Canada

34:57 Challenges in the Charitable Sector and Future Leadership

Guest Bio: Aki Temiseva, President & CEO, United Nations Association in Canada.

Born in Finland and raised in Zambia, Aki Temiseva is a visionary leader with over 30 years of experience building businesses and non-profits across four continents. Aki thrives in organizations that, like him, dare to dream big and disrupt the status quo for a reason: to create tangible solutions that measurably improve people's lives and build a more peaceful world for everyone.

Aki was named as the President and CEO of United Nations Association in Canada September (2024). Aki has served as Chief Marketing and Development Officer for Children Believe, a cutting-edge leader in children's education worldwide, where he led their fundraising, marketing, communications and public relations. Before Children Believe, Aki served as Global Vice President, Philanthropy at Right to Play, a Toronto based global INGO using the power of play to transform lives of children and youth across the globe. Before coming to Canada, he ran both local and global corporations and organizations in US, UK and the Nordics, delivering unprecedented growth from start-ups to Fortune 500 corporations (Procter & Gamble, Publicis Group) and global development organizations like World Vision and ChildFund, as well as his own consultancy out of London, UK.

Aki excels at turning the seemingly impossible into "we did it." He motivates and unites teams behind a growth vision, simplifying the complex and focusing on what really counts. Aki delivers results founded on innovative, winning strategies, bringing down silos in the process and building bridges where none existed. He has said his current role at UNAC allows him to push his life-long agenda of hope, reconciliation and bringing people together -even from seemingly impossible situations.

Aki holds an MSc in international marketing from Finland's Aalto University. Tri-lingual in Finnish, Swedish and English, he has lived in Africa, Asia, Scandinavia, the U.K. and the U.S.A. prior to making a home with his family in Toronto.

Connecting with Aki:

https://www.unac.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/united-nations-association-in-canada/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/akitemiseva/

Summary

In this episode of the Cause Leadership Podcast, David Hutchinson engages with Julie Fiorini, General Manager, Donor Services & Brand at CanadaHelps, and Allen Davidov, Senior Vice President & Practice Leader of Environics Analytics. They discuss the recently published 2024 Giving Report and explore unexpected trends in charitable giving, the impact of economic factors on donor behavior, and the significant shift towards local giving.

The conversation also highlights the importance of digital fundraising, geographic patterns in philanthropy, and strategies for improving donor retention. The episode concludes with insights on the future of charitable giving and the role of organizations like CanadaHelps in fostering generosity across Canada.

Takeaways

• Giving is up overall, but fewer people are donating.
• The largest year-over-year increase in charitable donations was recorded in 2023.
• Local giving has seen exponential growth, with donations to local causes increasing significantly.
• Digital fundraising is becoming essential for charities.
• Economic uncertainty is affecting donor behavior and spending patterns.
• Monthly giving is on the rise, indicating better donor engagement.
• Charities need to understand their donors to tailor their strategies effectively.
• The Giving Report serves as a vital resource for the charitable sector.
• Generosity is shifting towards local causes and community support.
• There is a growing gap in fundraising expertise within the sector.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Giving Report

01:21 Unexpected Trends in Charitable Giving

04:12 The Impact of Economic Factors on Donor Behavior

08:10 Shifts in Generosity: Local vs. National Giving

12:41 Digital Transformation in Charitable Donations

23:00 Geographic Patterns in Philanthropy

26:16 Donor Retention vs. Acquisition Strategies

31:58 Metrics for Charity Leaders' Success

33:24 The Rise of Giving Tuesday in Canada

35:44 Insights from the Giving Report

38:31 Understanding Donor Behavior

42:50 Navigating Challenges in the Charitable Sector

44:26 The Importance of Talent in Fundraising