Capacity Canada 2022 Annual Report

CAPACITYCANADA 2022 Annual Report

A Message From

CEO & Board Chair

Mission

Bringing Together the Ideas, People and Resources That Fuel Social Innovation

Vision

Courageous Inclusive

Communities that Excel

Principles

Innovation Leadership

Entrepreneurship

Impacts

Values

Collaboration

Diversity

Optimism

Accountability

Contents

FEATURED

Board Member Feature

Raksha M. Bhayana Joins Capacity

Canada’s Board Donors

Moira Taylor, Chris Howlett

Funder

The Lyle S. Hallman Foundation

CD4SG

Creatively Supporting Non-Profits Across Canada Creative Semester for Social Good

Conestoga Students Helping Non-Profits Change the World

Makeover Project

SPOTLIGHT

BootCamp

BootCamp Continues to Prepare

Non-Profit Leaders for Success

Women’s Leadership Project: Amplifying Voices, Driving Change Modern Board

In Partnership with Conestoga College Leadership Workshops

Mentors

Coaching Program for New Non-Profit CEOs and EDs

Gen Z on Boards

The Power of Youth: Making Non-Profit Boards in Waterloo Region More Inclusive

EPILOGUE

Financials

2022 Audited Statement of Operations Our Team

Design Collective Creating Impact One Student at a Time!

Leadership and Governance Training With Coalition of Muslim Women

Board of Directors

Cathy Brothers CEO

Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux BOARD MEMBER

Jeanette Bancarz BOARD MEMBER

Joanna Lohrenz BOARD CHAIR

Joe Sehl BOARD MEMBER

Raksha M. Bhayana BOARD MEMBER

Tim Rollins BOARD MEMBER

CAPACITYCANADA Board of Directors 2022

Board Member Feature

Raksha M. Bhayana is a woman of many talents and accomplishments. The CEO of the Bhayana Family Foundation, Raksha, recently joined Capacity Canada as a Board member.

Her impressive career spans the non-profit and private sectors, where she has held senior managerial and consultative positions. Raksha recently took the nonprofit sector by storm! In partnership with United Way of Greater Toronto and the Ontario Non-profit Network (ONN), Raksha and her team hatched the idea for a province-wide week of recognition for the staff in the non-profit sector. With the unanimous passage of Bill 9 –an Act to Proclaim a Week of Appreciation for the nonprofit sector – Ontario became the first province to host a Non-profit Sector Week of Appreciation. Every third week of February now celebrates those working in the nonprofit sector throughout the province.

“Capacity Canada is fortunate to have Raksha as a board member. She brings 25 years of board governance experience, knowledge, and skills. We cannot wait to see all that Raksha has to offer, said Cathy Brothers, CEO, Capacity Canada.

Raksha and her husband were recently named on the 2021 Indiaspora Global 100 Philanthropy Leaders List, a testament to their ongoing commitment to philanthropy.

Raksha praises the range of training, mentoring, and coaching programs offered by Capacity Canada and the skill and responsiveness to new and emerging needs, which she attributes to the organization’s leadership team. Sharing her enthusiasm for the organization’s work, Raksha said, “Capacity Canada is an exemplary organization with a mission and mandate that is laser-focused on ensuring that nonprofits operate at the highest levels from a governance and management perspective.”

Raksha hopes to learn from her fellow Board members, who come from varied backgrounds and perspectives. She values Capacity Canada’s entrepreneurial spirit and the leveraging of partnerships in the corporate and philanthropic communities to assist non-profit organizations while keeping the local community of non-profits closely engaged. “Capacity Canada’s operating models could be the blueprint for the future of non-profits in Canada, given the immense post-pandemic challenges we are all facing.”

Raksha hopes to assist and further grow Capacity Canada’s partnerships that it has so successfully forged. ‘The story of the organization and its models needs to be told more broadly.”

Raksha M. Bhayana

CAPACITYCANADA Board Member

Donor Story

Around 40 years ago, Moira Taylor and Cathy Brothers collaborated for the first time at St. Mary’s General Hospital in Kitchener. Moira held a position in the hospital’s Senior Leadership Team and later became its President. Meanwhile, Cathy assumed the role of Chair for the hospital’s Board, but their connection and companionship persisted.

When Cathy became the CEO of her start-up –Capacity Canada – she quickly reached out to Moira upon learning of her retirement from St. Mary’s. She asked her to become the first Executive-in-Residence for the new MatchBoard program.

“Moira’s affability, clever wit, and ever-present delightful laugh made her a joy to work with. As the pioneer with our first corporate Matchboard partner, Manulife, Moira’s skills in building trust, having fun, and developing relationships were the key to the program’s success. Moira always said she was helping out for a short time,” stated Cathy Brothers, CEO, Capacity Canada.

As one of our longest-serving and among the most dedicated Executives-In-Residence, Moira has been an integral part of Capacity Canada for more than ten years. Her unwavering support has played a vital role in helping Capacity Canada

contribute to the betterment of diverse communities. Over 300 Manulife employees were accepted onto non-profit Boards through Moira’s mentoring and networking talents. Capacity Canada’s current Board Chair, Joanna Lohrenz, was a Manulife employee when Moira matched her to Capacity Canada. Talk about a win-win-win!

“I firmly believe that Capacity Canada’s work over the years has contributed significantly to the well-being of diverse communities,” stated Moira.

“Through Capacity Canada, I have worked with many people in leadership and governance roles and organizations. It has helped me accumulate vast knowledge. Cathy is one of a kind! She is a sagacious person, and under her leadership, Capacity Canada has raised the bar for the betterment of all organizations in the Waterloo Region,” Moira added.

Modestly and generously, Moira always gave back to Capacity Canada. She and her husband, Roger, were leading donors annually. They left an incredibly thoughtful gift as Moira retired, and the couple headed home to their native land – the UK.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Moira for her invaluable support, unwavering faith, and inspiring mentorship. Capacity Canada owes much of its success to generous donors like Moira.

Moira Taylor

In 2010, Chris Howlett was introduced to Cathy Brothers and Andrew Wilding at the Accelerator Centre in Waterloo Region. It's been over a decade since, and Chris’s loyalty and continued support for Capacity Canada has been heartwarming.

A software developer by profession, Chris and his wife Lynn have been the longest standing supporters of Capacity Canada’s work, Mission and Vision.

“Chris has been the backbone and protector of Capacity Canada from our earliest days. He understands the importance of supporting innovation and growth in the charitable sector. We recognize when we are being coached by an innovation giant. In addition to sharing his knowledge and experience with Capacity Canada as a volunteer coach, Chris and his wife Lynn have been our most generous donors each year since 2010,” says Cathy Brothers, CEO, Capacity Canada.

Reminiscing about the day he was first introduced to the Capacity Canada team, Chris

Donor Story

says, “I remember the time I first met Cathy and Andrew. Back then, Capacity Canada was called Capacity Waterloo Region. An organization's success depends on its people, and after meeting them both, I knew this initiative that they are undertaking was going to have a great impact in our community.”

Chris readily makes connections between technology and charity and has been a consistent champion in finding technology solutions that help charities grow and create new solutions to social issues.

“People involved with Capacity Canada in the early stages are still around even a decade later. Capacity Canada stands true to its mission and work. And that's what I appreciate about the organization,” adds Chris Howlett.

A valued and precious mentor to Capacity Canada, his humble and self-effacing style is lovable. Capacity Canada is blessed to have Chris by its side during its journey that began over a decade ago.

Chris Howlett

Thanking The Hallman Foundation for Their Support!

If you have been to the Waterloo Region or live around here, it’s no doubt you would have experienced the Hallman Foundation’s legacy. From Wilfrid Laurier University’s Lyle S.Hallman Faculty of Social Work to the University of Waterloo’s School of Public Health Sciences to The Eden Oak Trail Park developed by Hallman Construction, the Hallman Foundation’s work has impacted every nook and corner of the Region.

In 2022, Capacity Canada had the privilege to honour the legacy of the Hallman family as 300 people came together at the launch of the new book authored by John G. Fast – The Hallman Legacy. Since 2004, the Hallman Foundation has disbursed around $90 million, and it now gives $15 million a year in grants supporting more than 100 local charities, organizations and grassroots efforts strengthening communities.

“We are privileged to have the opportunity to work closely with the Lyle S. Hallman Foundation. The foundation has played a key role in building a supportive community in the Waterloo Region over the past 100 years. We are thankful for the foundation’s support,” said Cathy Brothers, CEO, Capacity Canada.

Funder Story

The Hallman Foundation has been a longstanding supporter of Capacity Canada and its programs.

“As a foundation, we recognize the need and significance of having a well-informed and trained executive director in a non-profit organization. Non-profit CEOs, EDs, and other leaders require training and knowledge about organizational management, risk mitigation, and succession planning,” explained Jim Hallman.

For some time, Jim had been contemplating various ways to enhance the capacity of executive directors and other leaders. “I couldn’t think of a better way to support Capacity Canada,” Jim said. “Capacity Canada is renowned for its governance training programs and boot camps for the non-profit sector across the country. They have an effective system in place that has been in operation for over a decade,” he added.

“Capacity Canada has opened up a world of opportunity for new individuals to learn and assume leadership roles.”

We express our gratitude to Jim and the Hallman Foundation for their enduring support over the years.

Jim & Sue Hallman

CAPACITYCANADA Funder Story

Laura Manning

The Executive Director of the Hallman Foundation since 2011, Laura leads a rapidly-growing, place-based grantmaker seeking to build the strength and resilience of children, families and systems in the Waterloo Region.

She has worked as an external relations professional in universities. Laura was part of the small team that developed and launched the new School of Pharmacy & Health Sciences Campus at the University of Waterloo. Her extensive experience covers many aspects of the non-profit sector, including major gift fundraising, communications, program development and change management.

“The Lyle S. Hallman Foundation has always believed strongly in need to support the capacity

and development of non-profit organizations. Internal resources, structures and expertise directly affect an organization’s ability to achieve its mission. Capacity Canada’s programs for boards and staff leaders offer the kind of support and learning that we know are extremely valuable,” says Laura.

Explaining what speaks the most to her about the organization, Laura added, “Capacity Canada is a learning organization. The team reinvents its offerings regularly to better meet the needs of the sector and respond to shifts and changes in the best way possible.”

Throughout her career, Laura has worked in complex environments toward social good, navigating and shaping effective relationships across a wide range of contexts.

Capacity Canada sends Laura our gratitude and best wishes as she retires from the Hallman Foundation in May 2023.

CAPACITYCANADA Funder Story: Launching The Hallman Legacy 2022

BootCamp

BootCamp Continues to Prepare Non-Profit Leaders for Success!

A strong board is critical to the success of any organization and, more so, a non-profit organization.

Each year, hundreds of individuals dedicate their time and expertise to shaping the future of non-profit organizations by becoming board members. It is imperative that directors are properly trained in the responsibilities and demands of a governance position. Yet many boards often need help to educate new and existing directors adequately.

Capacity Canada’s Board Governance BootCamp ensures it offers directors the right education, resources, and guidance to set them up for success! Last year’s threeday annual Board Governance BootCamp, sponsored by Manulife, was held at the Bingemans Conference Centre on December 7, 8 and 9. Keynote speaker Paul Smith, Founder of Future Directors Institute, Perth, Australia, set the ground for the BootCamp with his presentation – Why being better matters.

Led by an incredible roster of industry professionals, including CEOs, EDs, and board members, the BootCamp was attended by over 200 participants across Canada. A spectacular lineup of 19 speakers covered vast topics such as risk management, understanding your organization’s financial statements, collaborative governance approaches, and creating an inclusive culture.

“At Capacity Canada, we understand that everyone has different needs. This year’s BootCamp allowed participants to choose the path they seemed most suited

CAPACITYCANADA BootCamp 2022

for themselves. People new to boards and experienced directors could decide which sessions they wanted to attend,” said Cathy Brothers, CEO, Capacity Canada. Participants were given opportunities to reflect on their learnings and experiences and create a plan for the next steps to transformation. Our speakers and facilitators ensured each participant left the program with a plan. Each participant left us a written commitment to a change they will make as a result of BootCamp.

The BootCamp included speakers such as Susan Radwan, a Capacity Canada Executive-In-Residence, Ameer Abdulla from EY Private, Lyle S. Hallman Foundation’s ED Laura J. Manning, and Cait Glasson, who is a board member of the Enchante Network, among others!

Hospice of Waterloo Region: Building Their Board’s Capacity With BootCamp

As a commitment to strong governance and leadership, the Hospice of Waterloo Region encourages its board of directors to attend Capacity Canada’s Board Governance BootCamp annually.

“This practice of having all board directors attend BootCamp within the first year of their service has proven to provide a common understanding and

language among board members who have shared this experience,” says Judy Nairn, Executive Director, Waterloo of Hospice Region. “It has been an extremely positive experience for orienting new members to the board’s work.”

Capacity Canada’s Board Governance BootCamp offer’s an exceptional opportunity for building the capacity of boards across organizations.

“One of the best features of the BootCamp is the opportunity to interact with other non-profits in our community,” states Judy. She further adds that meeting other board members and understanding the common challenges each organization experiences helps to ground everyone in the importance of the work of this sector in addressing community issues.

Hospice of Waterloo Region has implemented several learnings from the BootCamp into their governance model. “Each session of every BootCamp has provided our board with valuable learnings, from updating how our agenda and minutes are formatted to the creation of a perpetual calendar of fiduciary board activities and a structured review of board policies. Each year, we select a new project that helps to continuously move our board forward,” Judy adds.

CAPACITYCANADA BootCamp

Two Organizations Honoured with Social Innovation Award

Every year, Capacity Canada selects a non-profit organization as the recipient of its prestigious Social Innovation Award. This award celebrates risk-taking, innovation, creativity and boldness in improving the lives of Canadians. Last year, however, was different.

Capacity Canada recognized not one but two well-deserving non-profit organizations! The Social Innovation Award was presented to Family & Children’s Services of Waterloo Region and the Six Nations Child Well-being Agency, Ogwadeni:deo. Executive Director Karen Spencer and Vice-Chair Kelly Laurila from Family & Children’s Services Waterloo Region accepted the award on behalf of both organizations. It was presented at the opening night of the Board Governance BootCamp, sponsored by Manulife, on December 7.

“These two organizations embarked on a courageous journey together to become a model for communities across Canada. Their work has huge potential for large-scale impact on the lives of Indigenous children and families,” stated Cathy Brothers, CEO, Capacity Canada.

The Social Innovation Award is a unique opportunity to recognize the leadership of individuals or organizations bringing about social innovation and meaningful social change. Through a shared commitment to addressing inequities forced on Indigenous children and families, the two non-profit organizations are undertaking a new approach to meet the needs of Indigenous children and families.

This award recognizes the depth of work and commitment to change that both organizations have put into their agreement to transfer the jurisdiction of Indigenous Services from Family and Children’s Services Waterloo Region to Ogwadeni:deo, the Six Nations Child Well-being Agency.

Ogwadeni:deo is a child welfare agency ensuring the protection of Ogweho:weh children on the Six Nations Territory, in the City of Brantford and Brant County, while incorporating Haudenosaunee culture when working with families. Family & Children’s Services of the Waterloo Region is authorized under the Children, Youth and Family Services Act to respond to concerns about children in the Region.

CAPACITYCANADA BootCamp

Design Collective

Creating Impact One Student at a Time!

Human-centred design is an approach to problem-solving that begins with a deep understanding of and empathy with the people you're trying to reach — and then designing and testing solutions from their perspective. By including key stakeholders throughout the process, the solutions generated are more likely to be accepted and embraced.

With this approach, Capacity Canada's Apprenticeship Program, Resilient and Diverse Communities By Design, has been developed with the support of Suncor Energy Foundation.

The nine-month program, developed under Capacity By Design, is intended for individuals who want to learn the foundational elements of human-centred design to bring professional skills back to their communities to drive meaningful change toward more regenerative approaches.

"We are building innovation capacity in the sector by developing design-thinking skills in individuals who will be better able to address the complex challenges their organizations face. This apprenticeship initiative involves a "learn by doing" approach with coaching support for implementing a design-thinking project in

the individual’s community, says Hugh Munro, Executive-In-Residence, Capacity Canada.

Capacity By Design is a program of Capacity Canada that helps social good organizations rethink how they approach problem-solving to develop innovative solutions to critical challenges. The Design Collective furthers the work of Capacity Canada to build and support resilient individuals, organizations and communities across Canada.

“We aim to grow the number of social good design leaders who drive innovative change in a way that is grounded in the needs of their stakeholders,” says Liz Dennis, Executive-InResidence, Capacity Canada.

This is the second year Capacity Canada is offering the 9-month design-thinking program.

We are grateful for the financial contributions from the Lyle S. Hallman Foundation and Suncor Energy Foundation. Their support has enabled Capacity Canada to grow the Capacity by Design program in order to engage more social good organizations in addressing big challenges through the application of humancentred design.

CAPACITYCANADA Design Collective

Ariana Gomes, Apprentice, Resilient & Diverse Communities By Design

A registered social worker, Ariana Gomes has worked in several shelters in Toronto that help women who have experienced violence. Ariana, who has been working with Nellie’s shelter for almost a year as their community support and outreach supervisor, believes communities benefit from human-centred design thinking.

“Too often, service providers and program developers fall into the habit of creating services they think could benefit a community without consulting and using community experiences and voices at every stage. If we do not create space for community feedback, we risk causing more harm than good. Which is why humancentred design thinking is essential,” she says.

“This Apprenticeship Program has broken down all aspects of the process into steps. It shows us how crucial it is to implement each step to ensure a successful solution to a problem,”

added Ariana, who applied to the program as soon as she learned about it from the executive director of Nellie’s shelter. Nellie’s shelter operates programs and services for women and children who have and are experiencing oppressions such as violence, poverty and homelessness. The shelter is committed to social change through education and advocacy, to achieve social justice for all women and children.

Ariana has already begun implementing a human-centred design thinking lens to some of the programs at Nellie’s shelter and is confident it will have a positive impact. “I believe this lens will allow us to address the gaps in our service while honouring client voices and experiences. It will help us further engage and build trust within the community and develop meaningful programs.”

Ariana is excited about the next phase of the program. She is confident her experience will help amplify community-led and communityinformed efforts for sustainable solutions to complex issues that both Capacity Canada and the SEF strive to address.

Ariana Gomes

Lucy Borges, Apprentice, Resilient & Diverse Communities By Design

Lucy Borges has been managing two homes for seniors for the past 16 years in Kitimat, BC. One is an assisted living facility – Delta King Place Housing Society, and the other is an independent living facility. When she first heard about human-centred design thinking, she realized the possibilities of using design thinking were infinite. She was attracted to the idea of using it in assisted living facilities that lack recreational activities.

“The pandemic has brought unimaginable challenges in front of us. All the programs that we had in place were cancelled,” says Lucy.

With enough funding to bring a recreation facilitator on board, Lucy wondered what the role would look like, and that question piqued her interest in Capacity Canada’s apprenticeship program. “If I hadn’t participated in Capacity Canada’s program, I would have designed a role that I thought would be best suited for our senior residents and would have failed during the implementing stage,” said Lucy. She further

added that she quickly understood that not everyone’s wants and needs are the same.

Lucy shared that after attending the first few sessions, she knew “what she was doing wrong. I could have created a position and written a job description without consulting anyone. But now, knowing what the residents want, after interviewing them and gathering feedback, I have a better way of creating a prototype that is less likely to fail.”

“Involving those who will be the most impacted is the key to creating a successful program or service.” Lucy is confident her experience will help amplify community-led and communityinformed efforts for sustainable solutions to complex issues that both Capacity Canada and the SEF strive to address.

While Lucy has already started to implement her learnings in her programming and the services her organization offers, after the completion of the program, she hopes to share her learnings with the board members for a more significant impact. “In my opinion, design thinking is one of the most powerful ways to drive change, and that is what this program is doing.”

Lucy Borges

Nickolas Collinet, Apprentice, Resilient & Diverse Communities By Design

Nickolas Collinet has been working with the Create Vancouver Society since 2016. The mission of the organization is to connect people through music in re-imagined urban spaces.

“Everyone can benefit from bits and pieces of design thinking, and we should be approaching all complex issues in work and personal life with more design thinking. Those who serve communities should have these skills and tools so their work can have the most impact,” says Nickolas.

Create Vancouver Society is an organization that works with stakeholders that often seem on opposite ends of the spectrum. Nickolas and his team work as the middle person between those with the resources and the artists deserving of them.

“These two stakeholders don’t always see eye to eye, but there is so much crossover between the impact they want to see. Design thinking helps provide a process

to work through these challenges and find commonalities so that we can accomplish real action while showing real engagement with those impacted by the work,” says Nickolas.

Nickolas has already started implementing learnings from the Apprenticeship Project into his work. He and his team believe that the learnings from the program are directly applicable to their continued work at the City Centre Motel project. “It was extremely valuable to go through a sprint exercise with my team as we engaged stakeholders to learn their thoughts and needs. This insight, and the process we went through to get to it, is already showing its impact on how we approach the next stage of our work at the motel,” says Nickolas. He added that his team has incorporated tools from the sprint and brought them to group meetings on other topics the organization is exploring.

“The relevance of these design-thinking tools to our work as changemakers producing community-centric programs is endless,” he added.

Nickolas Collinet

Cinthuja Leon, Apprentice, Resilient & Diverse Communities By Design

Cultural diversity and inclusion are at the heart of Cinthuja Leon’s work. Working to promote cultural diversity and inclusion and for the global communities to stay connected through engagement, education and expressions, Cinthuja believes humancentred design thinking is the future.

“Many programs are created for our communities without engaging the beneficiaries from the beginning. That is one of the reasons why most community projects receive great involvement initially, but the interest depletes after a while. I believe human-centred design thinking will counter that challenge,” says Cinthuja.

“There were so many instances where the developed projects were of little to no use to the community. Human-centred

design thinking develops programs that are based on the needs of the community and, therefore, have a higher potential to be beneficial.”

Talking about her experience with the design-thinking program, Cinthuja shared how much she appreciates her mentors. “Both Liz Dennis and Hugh Munro are so knowledgeable and still so approachable. I continue to learn from their rich academic and real-life experiences. They have helped me at every step in making valuable decisions as I run my own non-profit organization,” she added.

Cinthuja hopes to bring her life experiences and new skills in human-centred design thinking to promote cultural diversity and inclusion in the Guelph community through unique and creative community-based initiatives. “I am already creating a group to engage different communities and test a few ideas, and I am excited and well prepared for the next phase to begin.”

Cinthuja Leon

CD4SG

Creatively Supporting Non-Profits Across Canada!

Effective marketing is crucial to the success of non-profit organizations in advancing their mission. Developing a comprehensive marketing and communications plan, and utilizing high-quality tools, can aid in connecting with potential supporters and strengthening relationships within the community.

Every year, Capacity Canada invites non-profit organizations from across Canada to apply to participate in Creative Day for Social Good (CD4SG). Around 100 students pursuing Public Relations and Graphic Design from Conestoga College team up with industry professionals to create free-of-cost marketing tools for participating charitable non-profits.

“It gives students the perfect opportunity to apply the knowledge they have gained while pursuing their degree. The result is a professional product that non-profits are going to use for several years,” says Matt Miller, Executive-InResidence, Capacity Canada.

In 2022, 11 non-profits were selected from across the country to be part of CD4SG. The various marketing tools created by the teams were presented on October 21.

The annual event, in partnership with Intertek Catalyst, Conestoga College, Manulife, HIM&HER, and the creative community, is an excellent opportunity for organizations with small to no marketing budgets to receive valuable design and marketing tools for no cost. It has made it possible for charitable non-profits to access professional resources to build their brand and have a more significant social impact. The teams together produced more than $100,000 of pro bono work!

CD4SG Project Highlights

Waterloo Region Suicide Prevention Council

Over the past several years, the Waterloo Region Suicide Prevention Council (WRSPC) has experienced significant growth as an organization and changes to its structure and processes.

“These changes led to a focus on updating our branding and marketing materials to better reflect the organization and the realization that we needed support to do so,” said Elisa Brewer-Singh, Executive Director, WRSPC, adding that CD4SG seemed like the perfect fit and opportunity to engage with students and professionals in the community and receive services from those with experience.

The WRSPC is a community-based nonprofit aiming to increase awareness of and engagement in suicide prevention within the community to ultimately reduce suicide and its impact. Much of their work is done through community engagement initiatives and education.

Elisa first learned about CD4SG through Capacity Canada’s social media. The WRSPC was looking to create marketing materials and assets, including a branding kit with design and marketing guidelines, a new slogan or tagline, and templates for digital and print materials, and it seemed like perfect timing. “We knew this was a big ask from the CD4SG team within such a limited time, but the team worked hard and delivered beyond our expectations,” Elisa added.

As a small non-profit organization, some of the challenges WRSPC faces include capacity

and resources (staffing and monetary) and community profile recognition. “Most of our marketing materials and brand assets were previously developed on an as-needed basis, and often by multiple individuals, leading to some inconsistencies,” said Elisa.

In 2020, the WRSPC retired one of its core pieces of branding that were used on many materials, including resources and t-shirts. Since this branding was retired, another one had yet to be developed or utilized to the extent of this previous campaign. “This has impacted our organic brand recognition and, in part, our community profile,” she added.

Elisa is hopeful that the material created will enable the organization to further its reach and impact in the community through increased awareness about the organization and brand recognition. “Our new logo acknowledges the path we have walked along to get to this point and represents the work that we currently do. Consistent branding will enable us to further grow our social media platforms and share information, resources, and events with more individuals in our community.”

Thanking the students and Capacity Canada’s program, Elise added, “The CD4SG team encouraged and challenged us to find meaningful ways to articulate what we do through design and listened when we shared our perspectives and best practice suggestions. We appreciate that the CD4SG team ensured safe messaging guidelines were incorporated. We are grateful that the students and the Capacity Canada team shared their time and expertise with us.”

CD4SG Project Highlights Continued

Action Read – Community Literacy Centre

Action Read – Community Literacy Centre was one of the participating organizations. The Executive Director of the organization learned about the opportunity through one of their board members. “Once I learned about CD4SG, I had to apply! And now, I often tell other nonprofits about the program and encourage them to apply,” said Mira Clarke, Executive Director, Action Read.

Sharing why they applied to Creative Day For Social Good, Mira said, “Like it or not, an organization’s outreach materials reflect their brand and give impressions on how professional and up-to-date the organization is. This can impact an organization’s ability to attract supporters or clients.”

Action Read is a grassroots organization that offers free and accessible literacy programs for adults and families and publishes practitioner resources. Their budget for marketing and advertising, like most non-profits, is extremely limited. Since COVID, Action Read has made several changes to its adult and family literacy programs while experiencing pressing fundraising needs. “We required updated promotional materials to communicate these changes to our communities. We were interested in being part of CD4SG because we

lacked the time, expertise and budget to do this work, yet were keenly aware of how important it is,” Mira added.

Action Read received outreach materials that were fresh, inviting, and that would remain relevant for years to come. “We certainly got all that was expected and much more,” added Mira.

As part of the program, the team of students created a punchy book bag decal that also highlighted an important milestone in a meaningful way – the 35th anniversary of the organization! The team also updated Action Read’s logo and provided a branding style guide, paper and digital program and fundraising brochures, and a marketing decal.

“Our expectations were exceeded! Not only did we receive material with precise language and use of branding, but we also received a very versatile and practical decal,” Mira said.

Many people in our communities quietly struggle daily with basic reading, writing, math, and computers. The benefits of the programs offered by Action Read are life-changing.

While expressing her gratitude, Mira said, “Creative Day For Social Good plays a vital role in creating better and more supportive communities. I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in CD4SG on behalf of all the members at Action Read.”

Creative Semester for Social Good

Conestoga Students Helping Non-profits Change the World

Real-life experience and a professional portfolio is every student’s dream. However, not many can boast of a good portfolio as soon as they graduate.

Capacity Canada and Conestoga College’s Creative Semester for Social Good ensure students are ready to take on the world with real-life experience, good connections, and a professional portfolio.

Every year, Capacity Canada invites applications from non-profit organizations across Canada to be part of one of its programs – Creative Day For Social Good –and it receives anywhere between 50 and 100 applications. While only a handful of organizations are selected to be part of the program, Capacity Canada, in partnership with Conestoga College, ensures that all social good organizations benefit. Paula Barrett, Program Coordinator, Bachelor of PR at Conestoga College, contacts the remaining organizations to be part of the Creative Semester for Social Good where students design marketing material for the non-profits.

The Creative Semester for Social Good, part of the Public Relations Consulting Course, is offered to third-year students pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations at Conestoga College. With the vision of creating a service-learning approach, Paula came up with the idea of a real-world student agency when she assumed the PR Consulting course around four years ago. “I wanted students to learn PR consulting skills hands-on with real clients and where charitable organizations benefit from their talents,” she said.

The course runs for an entire semester and starts with the 3rd year cohort being divided into groups. Agencies are then created within the groups. While students get hands-on experience working with real clients, it also helps students with networking that may lead to future job prospects.

The Creative Semester for Social Good course is delivered in an experiential format. Experiential learning allows students to learn through immersive experience and application while discussing and reflecting upon their learning experience. “Students

are guided by a facilitator or coach rather than a traditional teacher.” Paula added that they get to experience the lessons, immersing in the concepts in a real rather than an abstract way.

It’s a win-win for both the students and the non-profits. Social good organizations that do not have the budget or the resources are provided with valuable design and marketing expertise for no cost. This course has made it possible for charitable nonprofits to access professional resources to build their brand and have a more significant social impact. At the same time, it has allowed students to gain professional experience and prepare them for the real world.

“Capacity Canada has been a fantastic partner in this work, helping us work with organizations that need our help the most,” Paula added.

Through the Creative Semester for Social Good, the students have assisted 25 non-profit organizations with communications material and fundraising this year.

CAPACITYCANADA Creative Semester for Social Good 2022

Makeover Project

Women’s Leadership Project: Amplifying Voices, Driving Change

Women from low-income backgrounds, newcomers, disabled, 2SLGBTQ+, First Peoples, and racialized communities, and those experiencing intersectionality of these, remain drastically underrepresented in nonprofit decision-making and leadership roles – the voices of the sector.

Capacity Canada’s Makeover Project, funded by Women and Gender Equality (WAGE), department of Government of Canada, identified specific barriers limiting individuals from these communities in the Waterloo Region from stepping into non-profit leadership roles over a period of one year. Through engaging with a broad spectrum of relevant stakeholders, the project is aimed at co-creating solutions and tools for making systemic change.

“The Makeover Project was never intended to be about surface-level changes. By engaging a diverse group of stakeholders in co-creating solutions, we’re taking a strategic approach to make a systemic change that will benefit not just one community but potentially many,” said Fableeha, Fableeha Bushra Choudhury, Program Coordination and Communication Lead.

The design-thinking approach and framework were critical to the delivery of the Makeover Project. The design-thinking methodology included underrepresented women in framing the problems and co-creating solutions that will help accelerate individual and organizational changes that will amplify women’s voices within the non-profit sector.

“The Environmental Scan and the surveys, in partnership with Profound Impact, gave us a good foundation to understand the scope of the problem, look for what is (and isn’t) being done, and gauge where local organizations are at in the DEI process more broadly,” Fableeha added.

Fableeha Choudhury Lisa Allen

The project has four primary components:

• Environmental Scan

• Design Sprints (made up of 3 sprints)

• Outreach and Advocacy

• Administration and Evaluation

From Design Studio 1, we heard directly from stakeholders the barriers underrepresented women face in pursuing leadership positions in the nonprofit sector. The leadership journey was characterized by three phases: Attraction, Activation and Advocacy. From there, we developed a Journey Map to help organizations recognize and address these barriers through the three phases.

From Design Studio 2, we heard from community members who identified with one or more underrepresented groups to develop ideas about how the identified barriers could be addressed with locally-led solutions. Three topic areas – board diversification, building an equitable and inclusive organizational culture, and mentorship, were identified as priority areas for focus to address barriers.

From Design Studio 3, we heard from community members and leaders working on building an equitable and inclusive organizational culture and mentorship to co-create solutions.

“The Makeover Project has been an inspiring experience. The vast knowledge and experience that hundreds of people we have engaged with throughout the process have been enlightening and has driven the outcomes,” said Lisa Allen, Project Coordinator.

Based on this research, practical tools will be developed that will help organizations develop policies and practices that will support them in their goals for greater inclusivity and equity.

Liz Dennis Hugh Munro

SHORE Centre – TK Pritchard, Executive Director

Interested in how the project could begin to pull apart some of the systemic issues that impact numerous non-profits and provide guidance on how to begin to change, TK Pritchard, Executive Director of SHORE Centre, decided to join the advisory table for the project.

“I believe deeply in the need to take a critical look at board, leadership, and overall non-profit environments and address barriers which prevent full and supportive participation of women, trans and non-binary people - and particularly racialized folks and people with disabilities,” they said.

For TK Pritchard, one of the vital parts of the Makeover Project involved hearing from women, trans and non-binary people who have an interest in non-profit governance and what needs to change to support their involvement. “I think the project has great potential to open up more conversations about how we can do our work differently, in a way which is more inclusive of a wide variety of identities, needs and lived experiences,” they added.

“It’s clear that boards, non-profits and leaderships not only have a responsibility to reflect the communities they serve but also are made much stronger by doing so.”

Five leaders from organizations that represent diverse communities in Waterloo region supported the Makeover Project:

• Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region – Jennifer Hutton, CEO

• Coalition of Muslim Women – Fauzia Mazhar, Founder and Executive Director

• SHORE Centre – TK Pritchard, Executive Director

• Sexual Assault Support Centre of Waterloo Region – Sara Casselman, Executive Director

• YWCA of Cambridge – Kim Decker, CEO

TK Pritchard

Modern Board

Essentials Course 6 Total Courses Since Fall 2020

“The course material examines relevant topics that impact our experiences and relationships not only on the board but also outside of the boardroom and in the workplace. It provides the tools that are required to create a thriving future.”

–Eleanor Draper, Director of Finance, United Way Waterloo Region Communities

Advanced Course

275 Total Students

3 Total Courses Since Winter 2020

In partnership with Conestoga College

195 Total Students

80 Total Micro-Credentials

80 Total Students

"I highly recommend this course and the precursor - Essentials of Board Governance - to board members. It has certainly expanded and informed my understanding of what an effective board can be and this last section on exploring trends has been most helpful."

–Lori Trumper

Leadership Workshops

Leadership and Governance Training With Coalition of Muslim Women

Over the past few years, Capacity Canada in partnership with the Coalition of Muslim Women (CMW), has offered Leadership and Governance Training to racialized Muslim women.

This year, two training sessions were hosted by Capacity. Speakers from diverse backgrounds, including Kashif Memon, Sandra Hanmer and Diane Wiles, shared insights and knowledge about leadership and governance.

“The four-week sessions focused on building knowledge, skills, confidence and capacity for participants to take on leadership and governance roles in their work and volunteer activities,” said Sandra, Executive-In-Residence, Capacity Canada.

“The Leadership and Governance Training is offered as part of CMW’s Women Building Women Program. I am proud to say that over the years, this training has produced change makers and emerging leaders who have joined numerous boards and committees of nonprofit organizations,” said Uzma Bhutto, Coordinator of the Women Building Women Program, CMW.

Thrilled to have had the opportunity to be part of the training, Rubina Khan, one of the participants, said, “I’m excited to have my new certification in Leadership and

Board Governance! I’m positive this training will help me in my new role on the EDI committee at the Grand Valley Society of Architects.”

Rubina thanked Capacity Canada and the CMW for organizing the training. “I have learned a great deal from all the other amazing people who were part of this program and cannot thank Sandra and Capacity Canada enough.”

Saima Farrukh, an electrical engineer, found the training helpful personally and professionally. “The training was not only designed for professional learning about boards and governance but also for building self-confidence and courage to speak in public on issues that matter.”

“The work we are doing makes a difference in so many ways,” added Uzma.

Mentors

Coaching Program for New Non-Profit CEOs and EDs

Over the past few years of closely working with non-profit leaders, Capacity Canada understood there was an urgent need for specialized training for new Executive Directors and CEOs in the nonprofit sector.

“We continually hear from non-profit EDs and CEOs about how lonely it is at the top. Expectations of the ED/CEO are formidable and overwhelming. In response to many requests from both EDs and Board Chairs, Capacity Canada developed an intense coaching program to ensure the success of the new CEO,” said Cathy Brothers, CEO, Capacity Canada.

The coaching program consists of four phases. It can be tailored to meet the needs and experience level of the new organizational leader. Boards or new CEOs/EDs may initiate this program to enhance their successful start-up within their new organization.

The program focuses on specific internal and external activities that will assist the new leader in engaging with the Board, staff and volunteer teams, partners, funders, and others. It is designed to facilitate a progressive, plannedentry approach built on developing sound knowledge in:

• Understanding the organiz ation

• Oper ating environment

• Go vernance model and processes

• Essentials in building strong w orking relationships with all stakeholders

Highly experienced Executives-in-Residence at Capacity Canada ensure that the CEO/ED has the skills and knowledge to lead their organization confidently.

Jacqueline Marie Maurice, CEO of the Sixties Scoop Healing Foundation, was the first graduate of the program. “A CEO’s relationship with the Board of Directors is critical and interesting. The Board of Directors sets the table and tone, and the CEO is invited as a guest. The development and building of the CEO and the Board’s relationship involves finance, romance and dance,” says Jacqueline.

Jacqueline’s graduation was celebrated at Capacity Canada’s office at the Centre for International Governance Innovation on June 13th. All participants were given a natural wooden Talking Stick for the graduation celebration. Dr. Jackie Labonte and Oliver Nobosin led the Talking Stick workshop using various techniques and materials.

Susan Radwan

Stephen Swatridge

Fred Galloway

CAPACITYCANADA Mentors

CAPACITYCANADA Mentors: CEO Mentorship Graduation Celebration 2022

Duaa Al-Aghar, Muslim Social Services

Scrolling through Capacity Canada’s website, Duaa Al-Aghar found information about the new Coaching for Non-Profit CEOs/ EDs training program.

“As a new Executive Director, I believed that attending the training would provide me with valuable knowledge and experience that would benefit the organization I work with now,” said Duaa, Executive Director of Muslim Social Services.

Recommending the program to new non-profit leaders, Duaa said, “Capacity Canada is a leader in providing governance training and helping CEOs and EDs be the best version of themselves! I highly recommend this training to other EDs looking to develop their skills and organizations.”

She further added that the training has been a valuable experience so far. “I would like people to know that this training has been a truly great experience for me, and I believe that it has the potential to impact the success and sustainability of my organization significantly.”

Excited to apply the new learnings to her work, Duaa said she is most eager to use new skills in the areas of fundraising, strategic planning, program development, and fund development. She says she is optimistic about the direction that Muslim Social Services is headed in. “I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from experts in the field and am thankful to Capacity Canada for giving me that chance.”

Muslim Social Services Kitchener-Waterloo is a charitable organization that provides culturally and spiritually sensitive humanitarian and social services to the Muslim and non-Muslim communities of the Waterloo Region. MSS aims to foster a healthy and inclusive region where people can live with dignity and respect.

Duaa Al-Aghar

Gen Z on Boards

The Power of Youth: Making NonProfit Boards in Waterloo Region

Diversity, equity and inclusion are at the core of Capacity Canada’s work. And our research shown that non-profit boards still have a long way to go in achieving diversity. The past few years have given us the opportunity to help other organizations and workplaces understand the importance of DEI in the workplace. Recently, Capacity Canada discovered a growing gap in the communities we serve!

While youth comprise 22% of the population in the Kitchener Waterloo area, their representation on boards has been found to be inadequate. Despite 65.8% of non-profit organizations reporting to serve youth populations, the median age of board members is 50 to 54, as per Statistics Canada. Moreover, the 2021 Youth Impact Survey conducted by the Children and Youth Planning Table of Waterloo Region revealed that 35.9% of surveyed youth lacked a strong sense of belonging to the community!

Capacity Canada discovered a growing gap that needed to be addressed immediately, and the idea to create the Gen Z on Boards project was conceived. Funded by the Astley Family Foundation, Capacity Canada will provide

participants with governance coaching and mentoring and match them with non-profit boards that align with their interests and directly serves their community.

The project aims to ensure our youth feel a sense of belonging to their community while enhancing their career prospects. Participants will also expand their connections and create a more extensive network of like-minded individuals.

By becoming involved in boards, youth will be able to offer their perspectives to solve the issues that most concern them directly. “Youth involvement in governance training will help frame solutions through a youth-centred lens, especially in governance approaches and frameworks,” added Cathy.

Between 2023 and 2025, 10 participants from diverse backgrounds will be selected every year (ages 18-25). The project will have four primary components:

• Governance training through the course offered by Capacity Canada in partnership with Conestoga College - Modern Board Essentials and the CapacityGov app.

• Coaching through group discussions.

• Coaching, mentoring and matching with non-profit boards through the MatchBoard program.

• Governance training through Capacity Canada’s Board Governance BootCamp.

CAPACITYCANADA Gen Z on Boards 2022

Fableeha has been working in the non-profit sector for six years, specializing in the areas of project management, fundraising, research, and consulting.

Passionate about gender equality and social justice, Fableeha aims to make the world a more inclusive space for everyone. She has authored several published reports and articles on gender equality, tertiary education, economic integration and, sustainable development and energy efficiency.

Fableeha has obtained a Bachelors of Business Administration from the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh. Capacity Canada’s commitment towards Diversity, Equity and Inclusion peaked Fableeha’s interest and drove her to apply to work with Capacity Canada.

“I believe that involving youth in governance and decision-making processes is crucial for creating a more inclusive and equitable society. Through this project, we aim to help bridge the gap between youth and non-profit organizations, and to empower young people to use their voices to address the issues that impact their lives,” says Fableeha.

Currently a student at the University of Waterloo, Fatima is studying Political Science, Legal Studies, and minoring in Public Policy and Administration. She has a huge passion for volunteering and community service which has helped her accumulate over 1,000 hours.

She was recently awarded the Young Adult – Woman of the Year Award 2021 , Junior Leadership Award and the honorable Principal Award 2020.

Fatima has been involved in over five youth committees and initiatives over the past four years. She is involved with City of Cambridge Youth Advisory, Region of Waterloo’s Youth Initiatives, Youth Force, University of Waterloo PART Member, and much more.

Fatima also helped create Kitchener-Waterloo’s first ever youth program called Youth Leaders 4 Change, Coalition of Muslim Women, and also formed the first ever Muslim Youth Council of Waterloo Region.

Fableeha Choudhury Fatima Awan

CAPACITYCANADA

2022 Audited Statement of Operations

Our Team

Cathy Brothers

CEO

Andrew Wilding

Director of Operations

Alison Beveridge

Director of Public Relations

Kathi Dodson

Accountant

Nasreen

Director of Communications

Fableeha Choudhury

Project Manager

Fatima Awan

Project Assistant

Graham Roe

Design Consultant

Designers in Residence

Liz Dennis

Hugh Munro

Executives in Residence

Lisa Allen

Megan Conway

Ruth Cruikshank

Steve Farlow

Diane Fehr

Fred Galloway

Janine Giovinazzo

Martha Hancock

Sandra Hanmer

Andrew Jardine

Bob King

Kelly Laurila

Ian MacDonald

Randa MacNaughton

Don McDermott

Matt Miller

Bob Nieboer

Lori Payne

Susan Radwan

Lyn Royce

Stephen Swatridge

Marion Thomson Howell

Jennifer Vasic

Paul Wilton

Conestoga College Design Students

Nicolas Cesarini

Allison Langis