Connect & Caffeinate - Join us in Kitchener on March 24, 2026

Great teams don’t just happen — they are built with intention. In this session, KCI’s Jill Anderson and Meredith Roberts will explore strategies that make an organization a place where people want to work and choose to stay. Drawing on their executive search experience, they will share insights on:

• What employers are looking for in new hires
• What attracts professionals to new roles
• How leaders and staff can co‑create strong teams and meaningful career paths
• Practical strategies to hire effectively, retain top performers, and succeed in fundraising roles

KCI is a national executive search firm focused on nonprofit, foundation, and philanthropic leadership. Drawing on years of experience working with boards, executives, and fundraising teams across Canada, Jill and Meredith will share candid insights into today’s talent landscape and what it takes to build teams that thrive.

You’ll leave with:

• A clearer picture of what employers prioritize in new hires
• Insight into what attracts and motivates fundraising professionals
• Strategies for building strong, values-aligned teams and career paths
• Practical ideas to hire well, retain top talent, and succeed in fundraising roles

After the presentation, dig deeper through guided peer discussion. Learn from colleagues, share what’s working (and what isn’t), and expand your local fundraising network.

• Paid on-site parking available at 280 Joseph St
• $7.25 flat daily rate via the AMP app — use promo code Daily486 when purchasing a pass
• Note: The AMP app may display an error message indicating there is no parking available. Please ignore this notification and continue with your purchase.
• One block from ION Central Station (King & Victoria)
• Nearby free parking options may be available at the attendee’s discretion

This event is open to current and future AFP Golden Horseshoe members, please share with your network.

With sincere thanks to our series supporter, , for making these gatherings possible across Waterloo Region.

And thank you to the and the for generously hosting us at the Velocity Innovation Arena. Complimentary Coffee & Tea.

BONUS: Are you interested in staying for a Velocity tour at 10:30am?
If so, please email Sylvie Rubbini

P.S. Interested in hosting a future Connect & Caffeinate in Waterloo Region, Cambridge, or Guelph? Let us know — we’re always excited to partner with new spaces!

MEREDITH ROBERTS / SENIOR CONSULTANT, SEARCH + TALENT
Meredith brings over 15 years of experience in communications and fundraising within the nonprofit sector, supported by a strong foundation in public relations and marketing consulting in the private sector.
Since 2008, Meredith held progressively senior roles at United for Literacy (formerly Frontier College), a national literacy organization. There, she played a key role in shaping communications strategies, advancing fundraising initiatives, and leading major organizational events. Most notably, Meredith led the organization’s rebranding initiative—successfully honouring its 125-year legacy while revitalizing its public image and positioning United for Literacy for continued growth and impact.
In her current role as a recruiter and consultant with KCI, Meredith is known for her thoughtful, relationship-driven approach, ensuring both clients and candidates feel supported, informed, and
confident throughout the search process. Meredith holds a Post-graduate Diploma in Corporate Communications and an Honours Bachelor of Arts from the University of Guelph.

JILL ANDERSON / ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT, KCI SEARCH + TALENT
Jill joined KCI’s Search + Talent team in 2022, bringing over 25 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. At KCI, Jill has led senior and executive level searches focused on a variety of fundraising specialities from major gifts to annual giving, and marketing and communications. With a proven track record driving projects from concept to completion, Jill delivers results that align with
organizational goals. She is known for her thoughtful approach, providing strategic guidance and insights with care throughout the search process. She combines strong facilitation and communication skills with an interest in identifying and building new connections with professionals in the sector.
Prior to joining KCI, Jill spent 11 years at Hamilton Community Foundation, one of Canada’s largest community foundations, most recently as Director, Philanthropic Services. In this role, she led the Philanthropic Services team, contributing to organizational strategy, operations, and team leadership, while working closely with Board members, donors, volunteers, and community partners. Earlier in her career, Jill held fundraising and donor services roles at Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation and Juravinski Cancer Centre Foundation, as well as Toronto Foundation.
Jill holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies from Wilfrid Laurier University. She enjoys speaking on topics ranging from recruitment to retention and building strong teams, sharing her experiences to help organizations and professionals succeed.

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