Create, Connect, Change Lives

Interested in starting your own non-profit organization but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Rona Fraser, CEO of Nina Haggerty Centre for the Arts, located in Edmonton, AB, Canada.

What's your organization, and who are your members?

The Nina Haggerty Centre for the Arts (also known as “The Nina”) was launched in January 2003 as a project of SKILLS Society, a non-profit, charitable organization that supports individuals with developmental disabilities and their families in the city of Edmonton.

In September 2006, the Nina became an independent organization registered as a charitable organization with Revenue Canada.
The Centre is a thriving and exceptionally busy, animated space in the heart of an inner-city neighborhood revitalizing itself as an arts district. Every week, more than 230 adults with developmental disabilities work in our five studios, every inch of the place exploding with creativity and unique expression.

Great things happen with you give a person freedom of expression. Lives are literally changed as people develop their talents and confidence, many exhibiting and selling artwork. The Nina’s artist collective are given the opportunity to explore a variety of mediums each time they attend including, painting, textiles, clay, dance, printmaking, and more. Most arrive at the Centre defined by their disability, but they begin to define themselves as artists over time. It is exciting when others also start to see the person differently, and community perceptions are changed about what a person with disabilities can do.

Tell us about yourself

After graduating from Arts and Cultural Management, I was contracted by Wendy Hollo, the founder of the Nina, to plan and promote the grand opening of the center. I fell in love with the concept and watched the amazing impact arts had on many. I was very fortunate to work with the Nina on fund-raising and event management for many years. Then when Wendy retired, I stepped into her big shoes as CEO.

I truly have the best job in the world. Watching our artists overcome any disabilities they may face and express themselves creatively through painting, drawing, dance, sculpture, textiles, and so much more is nothing short of inspiring. The Nina also offers free family and community art classes in the evening to those who could not otherwise afford or access art classes. It is very rewarding to see the arts impacting so many in such a positive way.

What's your biggest accomplishment as an organization leader?

My favourite accomplishment with working with the Nina is the creation of the Here's Nina Awards. 5 Nina artists are recognized each year at a gala event for their accomplishments in the arts. Categories include Emerging Artist, Lifetime Achievement, and Community connections awards. These awards are so inspiring and help change perceptions of what a person with disabilities is capable of.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being an organization leader?

Overcoming the challenges of COVID has been my biggest challenge to date. Fundraisers being canceled and extending our hours to accommodate social distancing has been challenging financially, but with creativity, we have made it through without sacrificing any of our offerings.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow an organization today?

Partner with your community! We have made many great connections and opportunities by working with other charities, local business associations, and corporate partners. It has increased our visibility and created many new stakeholders for our organization.

Invest in your team. A great staff will make all the difference in your success. The Nina does a great deal with a very small but invested staff. I try to support them in every way possible, and it truly creates a team environment.

Lastly, don't give up during the hard times. We have overcome so much in the past two years, and tenacity and faith will go a long way in moving towards success and brighter days!

Where can people find you and your organization?

Website: https://www.thenina.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ninahaggertyarts/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ninahaggertyarts/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ninahaggertyart
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rona-fraser-7184ba36/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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