Testimonials & Success Stories
"Before working with Tess, we were gratefully accepting planned gifts when they came in, but our approach was very reactive. Planned Giving was something we'd been meaning to get to for years, but we just couldn't make the time.
After the Planned Giving intensive, we have a plan. We have a case for support. It's part of our philanthropy plan for the coming fiscal year, with dates on the calendar and dedicated time blocked every month to move it forward.
The weekly meetings were incredibly valuable, and having Tess develop our case for support was huge. It took us from feeling like, 'We're never going to get this done,' to realizing, 'This is actually achievable.' She also took the time to really understand our organization, and that came through in everything she created.
I'm excited about where we're headed. We're starting with our own donor database, identifying the people it makes sense to reach out to, and building those relationships over time.
If you're in the position I was in, make Planned Giving a priority. Put it in your budget however you can, and work with someone like Tess who truly understands Planned Giving and can help move your program forward."
-Irma Deacon,
Philanthropy Lead, Canadian Blood Services
“The Planned Giving Intensive got us to a place where we can actually start a program. Before Planned Giving was just an idea – not something that really existed at our charity. Tess helped us get everything started, and now Planned Giving is something we actively work on and we’re making progress.”
-Candice Wyma,
Fund Development Manager, Between Friends
During Tess' time as Planned Giving Fundraiser at Ecojustice, she grew prospects and expectancies by over 30%. She successfully ran a survey program, introduced two new marketing channels, and improved the stewardship program to ensure a lifelong commitment to the cause.
She then went on to launch the first formal Planned Giving program at YMCA BC! She’s since helped mid-sized charities grow their Planned Giving, developing new portfolios valued at $300,000 - $2 million in future revenue!
"Tess is a highly talented fundraiser who ensures her work meets high professional and ethical standards. She was instrumental in helping develop and implement marketing strategies for Ecojustice’s Planned Giving Program. Her enthusiasm, attention to detail, and authentic care for donors shine through in all aspects of her work and she’s incredibly fun to work with!"
Huda Al-Saedy
(Former) Director of Development, Ecojustice
“Planned Giving was stuck, so I quit. Someone needed to step up, and it’s Tess. Teaching the NEW Planned Giving for charities. She’s building fundraising programs that include planned (non-cash) gifts… off the side of your desk to create cash ON your books now! I’m grateful someone is picking up the torch! Thank you, Tess! You are my successor.”
Paul Nazareth, MFA-P
Former VP, Education & Development at CAGP Canada
The Planned Giving Professor
Consultant & Generosity Educator
Fractional Fundraising:
“Tess’ strategic direction and understanding of individual giving was essential to our recovery from the COVID pandemic as a performing arts organization. I highly recommend her to any small non-profit looking to grow their fundraising program”
Duncan Watts-Grant
Executive Director, Vancouver Fringe Theatre Society
“Tess completely transformed our fundraising. We not only got someone to complete the work we needed to get done, but we had an expert provide us with strategy as our organization grew and evolved. I highly recommend Tess!”
Michael Le
(Former) Executive Director, Pacific Dental Services Foundation (PDSF)
Trusted by:
“I had the pleasure of working with Tess during her initial fundraising role. In no time, she advanced to become one of my most effective Fundraising Managers.
Under Tess's leadership, her team became one of the finest I have ever seen. They consistently delivered outstanding performance, surpassing their targets for over two years. Tess's strategic mindset played a significant role in their success, setting her apart from others.
I can’t recommend Tess highly enough. If you have the opportunity to work with her, seize it without hesitation!”Jules D’Oca
Fundraising Training & Development Manager