Fund development program launched by CCA

An exciting new initiative is about to be launched for the Canadian Curling Association. After a lengthy review process, the CCA is pleased to announce the hiring of Rachael Wilson in the newly created position of Director, Fund Development. The Ottawa resident, who will work out of the CCA’s head office in Orleans, will take on the task of developing new revenue streams through annual giving, major gifts and planned philanthropic giving from individuals, corporations and foundations. A comprehensive philanthropic program was built after almost a year of consultation and research. The program, the first of its kind for curling in Canada, has been built in conjunction with KCI Ketchum Canada. KCI is recognized as the national leader in philanthropic innovation and has assisted numerous other national sport organizations and sport-related fundraising efforts. The funds raised through Wilson’s work will be targeted to three national curling priorities: support for affiliated curling centres and Member Associations through curling promotion and financial assistance; athletic scholarships and youth development; and a new national curling Centre of Excellence to celebrate curling in Canada and sharpen our edge on the international stage. “I am genuinely excited to have Rachael join our team and cannot wait to see her get started on the growth of this untapped sector for the CCA,” said CCA Chief Executive Officer Greg Stremlaw. “Curling as a whole in Canada will benefit, and Rachael’s experience in the field of philanthropy will play a major role as we continue to move the sport forward, from the grassroots all the way up to our High Performance programs.” Wilson, who will start work for the CCA on Nov. 25, has most recently been working for the Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation as the Director of Development. She has past fundraising experience with the United Way and National Arts Centre, in addition to teaching the craft of fundraising for the Association of Fundraising Professionals.