Ashleigh Saith
Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation
Toronto, Ontario
Why is a 40 under 40 winner
- Over the last five years, Ashleigh has grown Holland Bloorview’s monthly donor base by 23%, the annual fundraising program by 120%, peer to peer programs by 280%, and the overall donor base from 3,500 donors to over 30,000
- In addition to her full-time role, she also has acted as a freelance grant proposal writer for other charities and co-founded a consulting business called Charity Savant that provides resources, tools, and consultations to other nonprofits
- She led the Dear Everybody campaign, which saw 20,000 individuals and 130+ brands agree to include more authentic representations of people with disabilities in the media and advertising. The campaign received two prestigious awards from the International Association of Business Communicators, the Gold Quill and Toronto Ovation awards.
Q & A
1. How did you get into healthcare philanthropy?
I started my career as a fundraiser at a women's shelter where I had the opportunity to get my hands in everything from fundraising and marketing, to volunteer programming. While at the shelter I became more involved in social justice work, and my move into healthcare philanthropy was an extension of this. At Holland Bloorview, where I am now, I'm lucky to work on campaigns that bring attention to disability inclusion and connect donors with a cause that is near to my heart.
2. Tell us about a pivot point or crucial step in your career journey.
I first started managing people about 5 years into my career, and I discovered how much I enjoy coaching and mentoring, and what my own leadership style looks like. I've gotten to manage so many talented people and have felt incredibly privileged to be along for the ride as they discover their passions and grow in their own careers.
3. What piece of advice would you give aspiring 40 Under 40 recipients?
Think of your career as a jungle gym, not a ladder. Lateral moves, or even downward moves, can give you lots of room to learn something new, try on a new role, take on more responsibility, or get better at what you love.