Our Vision

The Core Advantage

Core exists to address 2 major challenges in the non-profit sector: the decline in fundraising revenue across Canada and the shortage of professionals capable of addressing these gaps. 

As fewer Canadians embrace philanthropy, organizations are at risk of seeing their fundraising efforts plateau. This in turn impedes their ability to deliver essential programming. While alarming for the charitable sector, it is of most concern to the individuals and communities served by nonprofits. In the absence of robust, diversified revenue streams, organizations and the people they serve will always struggle to find stability. 

Traditional fundraising avenues are fraught with risk and uncertainty. The resources required to identify and retain qualified fundraisers are significant and their skillset is often limited to one channel of fundraising. On average, a fundraiser will spend only 18 months in their role before moving on to more lucrative opportunities. 

The gap created in their departure is enormous. The organization loses institutional knowledge and key relationships are damaged, both of which are essential to a successful fundraising program.

At Core, we remove risk and uncertainty by delivering sustainable fundraising solutions. A dedicated, meticulous team is focused on raising funds for your mission, built on a foundation of integrity and collaboration. We will follow, and enhance, the direction and strategic vision of your organization. 

Meet the Team

Liam

After completing a degree in Astrophysics at the University of Waterloo in 2006, I recognized that academics was not the path for me, and that I need to feel like I’m making a difference in my community through working directly with people in my community.

Over the past 16 years of working in fundraising, I’ve not only worked with an extremely diverse set of organizations, but also a wide range of personalities and demographics of staff and donors alike. I pride myself in my ability to connect with individuals and to connect people with the organization I am representing.

I have more than a decade of experience in leadership development, event planning, conference and workshop facilitation, and organizational strategic planning. I thrive in a fast paced environment, am (too) enthusiastic about data and metrics, and excel at change management.

I grew up steeped in the world of NGOs and as a result have seen the incredible impact they can have and the real struggles that are present in growing and maintaining a charitable organization. Watching my father work with NGOs for his whole career, I was inspired to choose a path that allows me to feel I’ve truly done my best in my life to forward peace, justice, respect for others and respect for the earth.

Mike

As a resource development professional, I apply my 13 years of fundraising experience to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward major gifts from individuals, corporations, and foundations.

I've had the opportunity to engage in all levels of fund development from one time donations, monthly, direct mail, annual, legacy, event sponsorship and major gift giving.

I possess a proven track record of collaborating with Chief Development Officers, Executive Directors and various other stakeholders.

I am passionate about human rights and social justice, and I thrive in fast-paced, engaging environments. I also research and prepare written proposals and grant applications, implement and ensure donor recognition policies, and remain up-to-date on current trends and best practices in the field.

I have a proven ability to build strong, dynamic relationships with donors and stakeholders through excellent verbal and written communication skills. I am driven by the goal of securing major gifts that make a lasting impact on the lives of people who face fear and oppression every day.

How We Work

  • Optimization: Enhancing existing fundraising channels
  • Focus on Major Gift Donors: Acquisition & Retention
  • Innovation: Outside the box thinking
  • Exceptional Stewardship: Enhancing the donor experience; fostering donor loyalty
  • Goals and Metrics: Guided by KPIs
  • Cases for Support: Collaborating on key programs for maximum engagement
  • Relational Fundraising: Understanding when and how to ask
  • Grants & Revenue Streams: Identifying new opportunities and diversifying revenue sources

Let's Talk

Ready to get started?

Building strong donor relationships takes time and care. Whether you’re looking to deepen engagement, grow monthly giving, or connect with major donors, we’re here to help. Let’s work together to create a thoughtful strategy that fits your organization’s needs. Reach out—we’d love to chat!