I’ve worked with a number of non-profit organizations over the past five years, mostly within the community-development, poverty, and arts & culture areas. My general preference is to serve in broadly-defined roles that enable me to go where I’m most needed, as I believe that to be the best use of everyone’s time. Instead of getting in someone else’s way, I’d rather take care of things that aren’t already being done.

CFAX Santas Anonymous Society

Communications and Special Events, 2013-present

In addition to web development, my work for Santas Anonymous includes the planning, organization, and execution of special events and fundraisers in support of the 2013 Christmas Hamper program. In 2014, I am contributing to communications planning, systems development, and general volunteering for upcoming programs and events, while continuing to maintain the official website.

City of Waterloo

Advisory Committee on Culture, 2011-2013

I served a two-year term on the Advisory Committee on Culture, which provides input to City Council and staff on matters related to arts and culture. Citizen members were appointed to the committee based upon an application process, with final review by City Council.

Public Square Events, 2009-2013

I regularly volunteered as an organizer, host, and sound technician for events at the Public Square, including music concerts for The Food Bank of Waterloo’s DIG IN spring food drive and the City of Waterloo’s Open Streets events.

Waterloo Schools Challenge, 2006-2007

I served as the project coordinator for the Waterloo Schools Challenge, an initiative that sought to involve local elementary and secondary schools in the City of Waterloo’s 150th anniversary celebrations. Teachers and students were “challenged” to find their own unique ways to participate in the anniversary, leading to a variety of creative and collaborative projects taking place over the course of the school year. In addition, I produced and hosted a music concert consisting of bands from local high schools, and ran a poetry competition in collaboration with a local newspaper and the Waterloo Community Arts Centre.

Leadership Waterloo Region

Fire & Ice Gala Organizing Committee, 2009-2013

I participated on the organizing committee for Leadership Waterloo Region’s annual fundraising gala, contributing my skills in event planning, coordination, hosting, and on-the-spot troubleshooting.

Community Leadership Development Program, 2009-2010

The Community Leadership Development Program provides upcoming leaders in the Waterloo Region with the skills, perspective, and knowledge necessary to contribute effectively to our community. I participated as a class member in the 2009-2010 class, and contributed as a guest speaker and panellist for subsequent classes.

The Food Bank of Waterloo Region

Canstruction Waterloo Region, 2007-2013

Canstruction is a unique competition in which teams of volunteers build structures out of food, incorporating different cans, boxes, and labels in their designs. The food is then donated to the local Food Bank. I joined the committee for the inaugural 2008 event, and served in a variety of roles that included recruiting corporate teams, event planning and logistics, and on-site supervision.

Kitchener and Waterloo Community Foundation

Engage! KW, 2010-2012

Engage! KW seeks to build a network of young leaders interested in focusing their community-development efforts. I participated in the 2010-2011 program and served as Chair of the organizing team in 2011-2012.