Meet the Herd: Emily
Meet the Zebra Centre’s Philanthropy Lead Emily. She shares with us what it’s like as our Centre’s first Philanthropy Lead, her passion for connecting with our community and more!
Q: Tell us about your role as the Philanthropy Lead of the Zebra Centre.
Emily: As the Philanthropy Lead, I work closely with our CEO, Emmy Stuebing, to cultivate major gifts, secure sponsorships for events and programs, and research and prepare grant applications. Anything that has to do with fundraising or donor stewardship, you can find me at the center of it! If you’re interested in learning more about our donation programs and how you can help us, visit www.zebracentre.ca/donate. *subtle plug* 😉
Q: What does a typical “day in the life” as Philanthropy Lead look like?
Emily: Every day is different, which keeps me busy, passionate, and engaged! Some days I’m out an about in the community, picking up donations for Hope’s Toy Closet, visiting with our donors, or showcasing the Zebra Centre with tours to community members and donors. Other days, I’m glued to my computer for hours making sure all of our donors have their charitable receipts for tax season. You can also find me attending our fundraising events (usually behind the wheel of our Zebra-Striped SUV, which garners many stares as I drive around), planning fun activities for our team on our Zocial Club (Social Club, but with a “Z,” Ha.), or searching for creative ways to keep warm in my chilly office (tea, heaters, blankets, etc.!).
Q: What do you love most about your role?
Emily: I love engaging with our community and donors and helping to spread awareness about the Zebra Centre and the important work that we do for children, youth, and families. I love watching community members and donors fall in love with the Zebra Centre and helping to be a part of that to raise funds and awareness for us to continue to help children and youth who have been impacted by abuse.
Q: What is your proudest moment at the Zebra Centre so far?
Emily: I’m very proud to be the Zebra Centre’s first Philanthropy Lead! Prior to stepping into this role in September of 2022, the Zebra Centre relied on their leadership team to carry out fundraising activities. I’m proud to be able to dedicate my passion and skills to bringing in much needed funds and support for us to fulfill our mission. I’m proud of each donation comes in, as every dollar helps us to do our important work. We wouldn’t be who we are or where we are without the generous support of our community!
Q: What motivates you to show your stripes (your why)?
Emily: The help and services that we provide to kiddos motivates me to show my stripes. Behind each young person that steps through our doors is a team of Zebra staff, volunteers, and our multi-disciplinary partners that are there to support them. It’s truly inspiring to watch our herd do what they do best – help kids.
Q: Lastly, share a surprising or fun fact about you!
Emily: I’m a Christmas- fanatic. My favourite song of all time is “All I want for Christmas is You” by Mariah Carey and I will listen to it any month of the year. P.s. did you know there’s only 220 days until Christmas?!