It is hard to believe that it has already been six months since I joined Pathstone Foundation. When I first stepped into this role, I described the experience as building the bike while riding it—a phrase that still perfectly captures the dynamic, fast-paced reality of leading fundraising and communications during a time of transition. Now, with a bit more road behind me, I am reflecting on the joy, challenges, and unexpected lessons of this ride.

In the first few weeks, the sense of urgency was undeniable. With organizational redevelopment pressures and significant fundraising targets looming, there was no time for gradual onboarding. I had to hit the ground pedaling—navigating complex situations while simultaneously laying the foundation for long-term success. It was exhilarating but overwhelming. I quickly realized that this job was not just about raising funds in the moment; it was about creating the infrastructure that would allow the Foundation to thrive for years to come.

Working with intention

Building this infrastructure meant making difficult but necessary choices. It required creating and formalizing policies that would guide the Foundation and the Board of Directors, ensuring that we were not just fundraising, but fundraising ethically and sustainably. I drafted governance policies, tackled long-standing gaps, and worked to embed accountability into our decision-making. It was not always easy. Building the bike while riding it meant that while I was laying this foundation, I was also managing immediate donor relationships, securing sponsorships, and representing the organization externally.

There were moments of self-doubt.

I questioned whether I was moving too slowly on infrastructure or too quickly on fundraising, unsure if I was striking the right balance. The work of building policies and systems is rarely visible, and I had to remind myself that even if the external impact was not immediate, it was necessary. With every policy adopted and every process refined, I knew we were building something stronger—something that would outlast the immediate pressures.

Setbacks as opportunities

Over the past six months, I faced setbacks but have learned to see them as opportunities for reflection and growth. Each challenge revealed valuable insights into what works, what does not, and where we can improve. Fundraising is not about flawless execution—it’s about resilience, adaptability, and the humility to learn from every turn in the road.

At the same time, the joy of this journey has been equally profound. Seeing donors moved by our mission, watching the Foundation’s reach expand, and celebrating the small but significant wins has been deeply rewarding.

Just before the holidays, we secured a $100,000 donation from a passionate donor—an experience that reminded me of the power of persistence, creativity, and relationship-building. More importantly, it reinforced why I do this work: every dollar raised makes a tangible difference in the lives of the children and families we support.

The power of collaboration

Fundraising is not a solo endeavour—it is a shared journey that relies on the strengths, skills, and dedication of many. My most rewarding moments have come from working alongside the team, board members, and donors who are just as committed to the mission. Their creativity, expertise, and unwavering support have been instrumental in turning ideas into action.

I have seen how leaning on the strengths of others, not only makes the work more effective but also more meaningful. Whether it is a colleague’s innovative approach to donor stewardship, a board member’s strategic insight, or a volunteer’s passion for mental health supports, it is the collective effort that makes progress possible. This experience has reminded me that success in fundraising is never just about the numbers—it is about the people. It is the combined generosity, resilience, and shared vision that propels the bike forward. And while the road is not always smooth, knowing that I am riding alongside such a talented and dedicated group makes every challenge more surmountable and every victory more meaningful.

As I continue on this ride, I know there will be more unexpected turns, moments of exhaustion, and victories worth celebrating. I also know that building the bike while riding it will always be part of the work. Fundraising is a process of growth, refinement, and adaptation. It is about being willing to push forward even when the road feels uncertain. It is about trusting that the foundation you are building—one policy, one relationship, one campaign at a time—will support the mission long after the ride is over.

So, to my fellow fundraisers navigating their own journeys, know this: you are not riding alone. Whether you are building infrastructure, securing transformational gifts, or finding your footing in a new role, you are part of something greater. It takes the collective strength of teams, boards, and donors to build a bike that lasts. And it is through that shared effort that we create the kind of lasting impact that truly matters.

Marla Smith, CFRE, is the Director of Foundation & Communications at Pathstone Foundation, where she leads fundraising and communications efforts to advance mental health services in Niagara. With over 15 years of nonprofit leadership experience, she is passionate about fostering trust, transparency, and meaningful donor relationships through ethical and strategic fundraising practices. An active sector volunteer, Marla serves on the Board of the AFP Foundation for Canada and is a CFRE Ambassador. She also chairs National Philanthropy Day and Education for AFP Golden Horseshoe, championing professional development and philanthropy across the sector. msmith@pathstone.ca