As Canada begins to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, the competition for fundraising dollars among non-profit organizations and registered charities is more challenging than ever before, says the founder of The New School of Fundraising. There are an estimated 26 thousand nonprofit organizations in British Columbia alone, and 3,400 registered charities in Vancouver – and the past 15 months has been extremely difficult for many of these organizations that rely on fundraising to support worthwhile causes.

“Now, as BC continues the transition into post-COVID recovery, the competition for fundraising dollars has never been stronger,” says Rowena Veylan, the founder of the New School of Fundraising. “Nonprofits and charities play a critical role in the health and well-being of communities across BC. The people involved are passionate about their causes – but in many cases, they aren’t experienced fundraisers or because of staffing reductions over the past 15-months, they have may have lost fundraising expertise.”

“This will be an important juncture for many organizations,” added Veylan. “In many cases, they may need to reinvent themselves and be more strategic and thoughtful to achieve their ultimate goal which is to strengthen and support our communities through their respective fundraising activities.”

The New School of Fundraising NSOF) was established in June of this year as a means of equipping individuals and organizations with the fundraising tools they require to be successful – by offering training options for professional fundraisers, volunteers and members of the general public. Training is available for building specific skills, from understanding sponsorship to Indigenous protocols in fundraising and developing a case for support.

Perhaps most importantly, NSOF supports the growth of well-rounded fundraising professionals, who over the long-term will be able to better support their respective organization.

Veylan has worked in the nonprofit sector since 2003, holding various positions focused on building fundraising capacity and increasing revenue. She has also taught fundraising-related courses at BCIT and the Art Institute of BC. In establishing The New School of Fundraising School, Veylan has surrounded herself with a host of experts, all of whom share a common vision which is to provide a service to those who need to raise money, no matter who they are.

For more information about The New School of Fundraising, visit: www.nsof.ca