Passion and leadership are the hallmarks of the 2006 New Fundraising Professional - Rob Gottschalk

The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Greater Toronto Chapter is pleased to announce Rob Gottschalk, Major Gifts Officer, Sunnybrook Foundation, as the recipient of the 2006 New Fundraising Professional Award.

The AFP Greater Toronto Chapter 2006 New Fundraising Professional Award was established in 2001 to recognize a new (2-5 years experience) full-time fundraising professional who has displayed exceptional talent and demonstrated outstanding achievement early in their professional fundraising career. The recipient is selected based on submissions from Chapter members.  The criteria for this Award encompasses career achievements, long and short terms career objectives, personal volunteer service and a commitment to the profession.

AFP Greater Toronto Chapter considers it a priority to recognize and appreciate the individuals who are making a difference to the lives of so many, as they lead by example and thereby inspire others in their new beginnings.

Rob Gottschalk is a passionate fundraiser whose commitment to his work and active volunteerism shows that he truly represents the new generation of professional fundraisers.

As Manager, Corporate Development for PC Ontario Fund Rob was responsible for a one year $4.5 million fundraising campaign goal.  Rob, along with his team of over 40 senior ranking corporate volunteers, successfully exceeded the corporate and individual major gift goal towards the PC Ontario Fund with a total of $8 million raised. At the Sunnybrook Foundation, Rob is responsible for managing two hospital campaigns – Cardiac and Emergency & Trauma– with a total goal of more than $55 million.  Rob also mentors new Major Gift Officer recruits. Rob was awarded the Board of Governors Award for Academic Excellence upon completing the Post Graduate Diploma Program in Fundraising and Volunteer Management at Humber College in April 2003.

Rob shows his ongoing leadership and commitment to the profession by being a mentor and volunteer with the Fundraising and Volunteer Management at Humber College.  He nurtures relationships with individuals considering the profession and those enrolled in the program.  Rob has been a board member of Brock University Alumni Association and knows first hand the role of a volunteer.  Rob’s commitment and passion is evident as he, along with his family, annually plans a golf tournament in memory of his father, which attracts 144 golfers playing for charitable causes close to their hearts.

Rob Gottschalk will be honoured at the Fundraising Day Luncheon, Wednesday, June 7, at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, South Building.  To order tickets to attend, contact Cynthia Quigley at the AFP Greater Toronto Chapter at 416-941-9212, or cquigley@afptoronto.org