The Sunshine Coast Resource has been going through a lot of changes in the past year, most notably with a new Executive Director — Katie Clogg. She has been deeply focused on updating our organization from the inside out, which includes new and improved administrative systems for our staff, grant funding opportunities and program planning for the future.
Curious to learn more about Katie? What motivates her, and what is she working towards in our community? Take a few moments to read a short Q&A that will help you get to know her better.
1. How long have you lived on the Sunshine Coast?
I’ve lived on the Coast since June 2020. I started working remotely for a Sunshine Coast organization in March of the same year and moved once I could find housing. 🙂
2. What are you most passionate about when it comes to advocating in our community?
Firstly I’m most passionate about streamlining the navigation process when it comes to government bureaucracy, healthcare, legal services, caregiver support, social services, technology and more. I am passionate about how our organization is making information more accessible and equitable. When members of our community are overwhelmed or in distress, the navigational journey becomes so much harder, and navigating information becomes even more difficult.
Personally, I am most passionate about bringing nonprofits, government and healthcare into alignment when it comes to the health and well-being of a community. I’ve spent my entire career in the not-for-profit sector, and I’ve experienced how traditional grant-based fundraising models just don’t work for the long-term viability of community programs (in fact, they cause more harm than good). I am passionate about bringing nonprofits into alignment with government and healthcare authorities so that we can work more effectively together on sustainable community development.
3. Can you share two things about being an ED that you really love and two things that are sometimes challenging?
Two things I love – The opportunities to meet interesting people and the chance to create a healthy and thriving non-profit organization. Two things that are challenging – Being limited by funding to give more hours to our amazing team of staff, and juggling my workload within 21 hours a week.
4. What kind of impact are you most hoping to make as the ED for the Resource Centre?
I’m hoping to make a sustainable impact…for me, it’s all about building programs that are strategic, much-needed, and will be around for the long haul. My vision is to work with our Board, staff and volunteers to develop a thriving non-profit that is integrated into a clearly defined continuum of services on the Sunshine Coast.
5. As someone working in a space that requires a balance of practical and emotional labour — can you share one or two things you do to practice self-care?
I love to garden, I’m particularly obsessed with growing herbs. I love to spend time with my hubby and my pets and go for walks in the forest.
6. Lastly, what would you tell our local community when it comes to how people can be more involved or where support is most needed?
I would say the most important thing you can do right now is sign-up to volunteer. Volunteerism is on the decline on the Coast. There are dozens of amazing organizations out there that need your help!