In this edition of 7 Questions for a Changemaker, I caught up with Sara Hoshooley to talk about fundraising, leadership, and the lessons she's learned throughout her career. As always, Sara brings a thoughtful, authentic perspective and plenty of practical insights for anyone working in the sector.
1. Who are you, and what do you actually do?
I'm Sara Hoshooley, founder of Charity Shift. I help small fundraising teams raise more money. I'm currently based in Toronto and work with Canadian and international organizations. I love the work that I do and the charities that I get to work with. I've worked in fundraising for the last 17 years and spent three years as the Executive Director of a small nonprofit in Vancouver.
2. What pulled you into the nonprofit world?
Like a lot of people, I got into the nonprofit world and fundraising unintentionally. I lost my job as a recruiter in the finance sector in 2009 and decided to go do volunteer work in Belize. That was the first time I really got to see how a small but mighty nonprofit operates. My initial work there involved recruiting volunteers from around the world, and I loved what I did. But while I was there, an urgent funding need came up for the organization, and I created their first fundraising campaign. From then on, I was hooked!
3. Tell me about a moment that made you think, "Yes. This is why I do this."
With all of the charity clients I work with, after our partnership wraps up, we typically have coaching and follow-up sessions to make sure everything is working well and that they feel confident implementing the plans and strategies we created together. There's nothing I love more than watching someone who initially was nervous, felt vulnerable, or didn't really enjoy fundraising become someone who excels at it and actually enjoys the work.
4. What's something about working in nonprofits most people don't understand?
We are scrappy! Working in nonprofits, especially on a small team, means that you are the IT department, HR, a delivery driver, and yes, sometimes even the person who has to unplug a toilet. We are resourceful and resilient, but we're not always recognized for the achievements we collectively make, in spite of the challenges and restrictions we work under.
5. What's one thing you wish more fundraisers or hiring managers knew?
I wish we could get to a point where "and other assigned duties" didn't mean folding in the three other jobs that were eliminated but still need to get done. Especially for fundraisers: we are given very clear goals for how much needs to be raised, but then get pulled into projects and tasks and discussions that don't actually help us get closer to that goal.
The best organizations are the ones where fundraisers are recognized for the skills they bring and are encouraged and supported to reach their goals, without getting pulled into conversations about gala napkin colours, iykyk 😉
6. What's a small, underrated habit that's helped your career?
I don't remember who said it, but there's a quote something like: "There is always a choice to do the kind thing, or to do nothing." I try to live by this in my work. If someone does a great job, say so. If someone looks like they're having a tough day, offer to reschedule or give them space to take time off. If I hear about a job opportunity or consulting project that seems like a good fit for someone else, I send it to them. If I haven't heard from someone in a while, I DM them to say hi. And if I think two people should meet each other, I will make the introduction. It's not always easy, and I don't always remember, but doing the kind thing when you can, without any expectation in return, is a very underrated habit.
7. Finish this sentence: "The future of fundraising is…"
…equitable, fair, and streamlined. I dream of a sector where people are treated well and paid well. Where funders trust organizations to spend money on their missions as needed, because they are the experts. And a sector where we can openly share resources, knowledge, and expertise and truly embrace an abundance mindset.