For Foundations & Health Trusts

1. When asked about your job, what’s your elevator speech?

I am a connector and a fundraiser.

I make new friends and connections and build relationships that will be long-term and have a lasting impact. I help the Foundation reach its goals by being out there in the community sharing ideas, initiatives and some of the amazing things that are happening at the Glenrose.

I am also very inquisitive and ask a lot of questions when I meet new people. I am interested in learning something new every day. My husband often teases me that I am always on the job – no matter what we do or where we go – I am always on the job.

2. What challenges do you enjoy in your work and how do you overcome them?

I absolutely love the challenge of complex fundraising or campaigns. We are currently in campaign mode, not an easy campaign per se, involving three very different areas in the hospital. As a non-health care provider, it can be challenging when telling the story to a donor.

Not only is the caregiver story important, the patient’s journey needs to be translated with respect, dignity and sensitivity. This can be the biggest hurdle to overcome. But some strong listening skills, patience and belief that our Foundation truly does make a difference in ensuring patients receive the best possible care helps me overcome the complexities of fund raising.

3. Describe a moment or moments when you felt really proud to be doing the work you do.

I am always humbled when I walk the hallways of the Glenrose. I take an hour at the end of the day to meet with patients, their families and staff members to make a new friend and listen to what is happening on site from their perspective.

I am always amazed by the courage of our patients, their resilience to adversities they face and how they embrace what has happened to them on the journey or the long road ahead. Patients often tell me how worried they are for their families who are by their side.

I take pride each and every day and count how lucky I am to be part of such an amazing team.

4. Your foundation is a relatively small shop (4 employees). How does the team manage to get everything done and continue growing your success?

Yes, small people-wise but large in spirit, determination and passion. Each one of our team members has their niche and we are extremely respectful towards each other, but also very supportive. We could not pull off any of our events and activities without everyone’s contribution.

We are continuously mentoring each other –from our President CEO to our Office Manager. We have the mindset that we can learn from each other.

5. It’s a challenging time for Alberta businesses and charities. Is there anything the foundation is doing differently because of the economic downturn?

It is challenging times in Alberta, however in the fundraising/stewardship world this is an opportunity for us to really connect further with our donors and potential donors. Building a relationship and connection with donors and potential donors is something that I believe our Foundation does well. Of course, we can always improve.

This also gives us an opportunity to review our programs and processes to be more efficient and effective and be better prepared when the economy improves.

6. When the work week is over, how do you recharge so you return the next week with renewed energy and enthusiasm?

In the winter months, I spend my weekends volunteering with the Canadian Ski Patrol. I am actively patrolling at Marmot Basin and Snow Valley. Spending time with family and my two amazing Bernese Mountain dogs in Jasper re-energizes me after a busy week at work.

Skiing is a passion for both my husband and me. Being outdoors and meeting new people is very important to us and giving back to our community in a non-traditional way.

7. How can you be reached if someone would like to ask for advice or input?

I can be reached anytime to share ideas, chat or even just bounce things around at 780-735-6179 or by email louise.charrron@ahs.ca. Failing that, by cell phone 780-860-2725 linkedin: Louise Charron.

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