Each year we present the Spark Outstanding Pro Bono Award at the Volunteer Manitoba Awards. Like many other special events, this celebration is typically done in person, but due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Volunteer Manitoba has once again decided to host the awards celebration online via their Facebook page.
Regardless if we come together in-person or over our computers, we at Spark always look forward to this day because it gives us a chance to recognize our volunteers and the impact their work has had on the community, as well as celebrate volunteerism throughout Manitoba.
From now until awards night, we are celebrating these nominees for the Spark Outstanding Pro Bono Award, and their contributions to their community through a series of volunteer profiles.
Today we are profiling Nan Colledge!
Nan has worked extensively in Community Development holding roles in nonprofit management, funding, fundraising, and communications to name a few. She came to Spark in 2017 wanting to volunteer her expertise.
Nan’s wealth of knowledge and experience leading teams made her the perfect choice when Uyen Pham, Executive Director of ArtBeat Studio, reached out to Spark.
Artbeat studio is an arts based organization that ““runs unique community-based, self-directed, peer-supported programming. It provides social supports, working art studio and gallery space, and mentorship for individuals living with mental illness for the purpose of recovery and empowerment”
Uyen has spent 15 years working in the nonprofit sector in various capacities but was new to the Executive Director role. When she approached Spark she was looking to be matched with an experienced ED who could offer her guidance and a space to bounce ideas off of.
After the six month match was completed Uyen stressed the importance of mentorships for people new to their roles. For her, “Nan was the perfect match for me. Very knowledgeable in all aspects of being an Executive Director. She also had many resources about training and PD to enhance my skills as ED and she made me think about my future and goals I wanted to achieve for myself, personally, and not just professionally.”
In addition to helping Uyen navigate new responsibilities, Nan also inspired her to volunteer her time and expertise. “Nan’s volunteerism has given me the inspiration to do more with my time. She makes me feel like I should be out there spreading my skills and knowledge to other organizations that may need someone like me!
Congratulations on your nomination, Nan! Thank you for volunteering your expertise and helping to make Winnipeg a healthier, more vibrant community.
Interested in reading more about our nominees? Check out our profiles on Desiree Harder and Stephanie Johnston!
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