As we mark the 150th anniversary of confederation, The Philanthropist is profiling Canadians from across the non-profit sector and putting a face to 150 individuals who work or volunteer in Canada’s social sector.
Name: Charlie Wall-Andrews
Current role in the sector: Executive Director of the Society of Composers, Authors and Music Publishers of Canada (SOCAN) Foundation
Years working and/or volunteering in the non-profit sector: 10+ years.
What was your first job in the sector or a defining moment?
During my undergraduate studies, I had a part-time job as Development and Marketing Coordinator with a symphony orchestra. During that time, I created an Adopt-a-Musician fundraising campaign, which enabled local businesses and individuals to donate to the orchestra and support music education and the symphony conservatory.
While there have been many defining moments, recently being appointed to the TELUS Community Investment Board was a defining moment in my life. I’m proud to be part of a community that cares about its customers and our community. It’s empowering to be part of companies that are socially responsible and sustainable, and I will continue to work with other corporations to promote public and private partnerships that generate a positive impact in our society.
Describe your desk/workspace.
My workspace is very collaborative and creative!
What are you reading or following that has expanded your understanding of the non-profit sector?
I’m interested in blockchain and bitcoin technologies, so I’m often reading blogs and journals about this evolving subject matter. It will be
interesting to see charities accept bitcoins as donations in Canada, and how they leverage such assets toward their mandated activities. I’m also very interested in venture philanthropy, which is becoming increasingly popular.
What do you think our sector needs to be thinking about?
I care about creating sustainable solutions to address issues/gaps in society that corporations can resolve through effective CSR and/or
philanthropic strategies. Also, I often think about the power arts and culture, and how it can serve as a vehicle to foster diversity and inclusion, and cultivate a pluralistic society.
I’m also deeply interested in corporate and philanthropic strategy. Since 2015, I’ve been focused on SOCAN Foundation. In conjunction with celebrating our 25th anniversary, we revitalized our philanthropic strategy to have a greater impact in supporting Canadian music and its creation.
Do you know someone we should profile as part of this series? Email us at philanthropistprofiles@gmail.com
