You can bank on Rebecca
May
25, 2004
By Cam Tait
TORONTO, ON // It began some 20 years ago in a small CIBC branch when staff worked together toward a common goal: to give kids the boost they needed to become all they can be, and more. Now, two decades later, the CIBC World Markets Foundation is still boosting more and more kids.
Their focus for giving is crystal clear - to support the health, education, and well-being of children in need. "We are living proof that one great idea can change thousands of lives for the better," says Rebecca Thomas, who has been the foundation's senior manager of donations and sponsorships for the past seven years.
The event is a great precursor to Christmas. On the first Wednesday of December, more than 100 CIBC Wood Gundy Canadian offices - joined by colleagues in New York, London and Asia - contribute their fees and commissions from the day to the foundation. "The 'Miracle' is a pretty unique corporate foundation in that we actually have to raise the funds that we donate," says Rebecca. "We focus on developing our fundraising plans throughout the year, concentrating our efforts from October to January."
Then, every year, new senior-level managers lend their time in fundraising and represent each contributing area of the company. Rebecca says the corporation works together throughout the year, thinking of new ways to reach employees and clients on that wonderful Wednesday. Starting in February and continuing until September, proposals are considered and funds are granted. Rebecca estimates 1,000 proposals are received every year.
"From a granting perspective, I cannot emphasize how important it is for charities to target their requests," says Rebecca. "Know who you are writing to, and keep it professional and polished (which does not mean glossy and expensive). And if you do get a grant...stewardship, stewardship, stewardship. Build the relationship.
"From a fundraising perspective, all I can say is know your donor base. We are constantly adjusting with the times, and refining our own fundraising program based on changes in our markets and the shifting needs of our supporters. What works one year might not work the next. Fundraising is a dynamic and constantly changing arena. Programs and volunteer opportunities must be more flexible to allow for these demands. A cookie cutter approach no longer works."
Being involved with people is key, in the corporate offices and from the charitable side. And, of course, there are the kids. "It's a story that most everyone in the field tells, but it is true. When you have a bad day at the office, you can always think of the kids, and realize that the long hours and the seemingly endless frustrations really are worth it."
The numbers, however, are also impressive. Last year, more than $4 million was raised in Canada for Miracle Day. It is the largest single-day corporate fundraiser in the country to benefit children's charities. And, that makes Rebecca's job a pleasure.
"I have never felt so dedicated to my work," she says. "I am personally involved on a committee level with the Children's Aid Foundation, as well as being involved with the Funder's Alliance for Children, Youth and Families. A large part of what I do at work feels more like personal commitment, as opposed to professional obligation."
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