The Unexpected Gifts of Generosity: What We’ve Learned This Season
When you hear the question, “What was the most surprising gift this season?” what comes to mind? Perhaps a gift card to your favorite restaurant, flowers on your birthday, or someone offering to fix that squeaky kitchen cabinet that has been driving you nuts all year! We all perceive “gifts” in our own unique way, and that’s what makes them so meaningful.
December is known as the season of giving and it is the time of year when we see the most gifts go to charities. As GiveWise Foundation Canada, we know that these gifts truly make a difference, as we get to hear the wonderful impact stories from the charities serving on the ground. We also hear from donors who gain purpose partnering with impactful causes.
At GiveWise, we decided to broaden the idea of a gift. Thinking beyond the tangible, our team reflected on gifts that stood out in our memories, whether that was lessons learned, impactful conversations, or moments of growth. With that in mind, we asked our team to share their answers to the question: What was the most surprising gift you received this season? Here is what they shared:
Tammy Kyte (Executive Director):
The most surprising gift I received wasn’t a thing—it was a connection. I met someone who, like me, has been navigating the unique challenges of social innovation and generosity in Canada. For the past few years, I’ve been part of a small group in Abbotsford, coming together with a desire to make a meaningful impact in our community by breaking down silos and creating deeper connections between organizations. This new connection sparked an idea that’s all about collaboration and using technology to meet the tangible needs in our community. It’s a fresh possibility, and I’m excited to see where it leads, but most of all I cherish the connection that we made and the support we are able to offer one another.
Dan Kyte (Director of Finance and Investments):
Throughout our journey from startup to growth phase, we’ve had the privilege of being gifted with the time and expertise of some incredible people. These are individuals who have never asked for anything in return. Even when we’ve asked them to send an invoice, they’ve graciously declined. For many people, it’s easier to write a cheque than to donate their most precious resource—their time. Yet, these advisors and advocates have chosen to invest their time in our mission, and that’s a truly invaluable gift. We are incredibly thankful for their support and for the guidance they’ve provided as we continue to grow and serve our community.
Jessica Rayne (Donor Relations Advocate):
This year, the most surprising gift I received was the opportunity to reset—across my personal, professional, spiritual, and relational life. After spending a year traveling with my son, I came home to a season of transition. I learned that setting goals is essential, but sometimes letting go of goals that no longer serve you is just as important. In my new role at GiveWise, I’ve seen the power of resetting in action as we work with donors and charities. There are moments when the services we offer don’t align with the needs of those we are trying to serve, and in those moments, we need to reset, reimagine, and try again. While this sometimes means that the work we’ve poured in doesn’t result in tangible outcomes, the lesson is clear: the ability to reset is a strength, not a failure. I am deeply grateful for this gift of renewal and learning.
Cristie Moews (Director of Systems & Operations):
A gift I receive regularly is the opportunity to speak with people working for charities and hear the stories behind why they serve the causes they’re passionate about. What stands out to me is that these individuals are not just working for a paycheque; they are genuinely driven by a deep connection to the mission of the organization. Hearing their heartfelt stories and learning about their commitment to the causes they support is an incredible gift. It reminds me every day of the integrity and passion that exists within these teams, and I feel privileged to be part of a movement that’s dedicated to supporting such meaningful work.
Alexis Money (Project Administration Officer):
A gift for me has come from our weekly team meetings, where I hear feedback from donors who’ve been searching for a solution for a long time and have finally found us! It’s truly rewarding to hear about people’s excitement in partnering with us to further generosity. It’s a clear sign that we’re on the right path. For me, this has been a gift of fulfillment, watching our team pour their hearts into this work with integrity and a shared passion for our mission. It’s inspiring to see all the pieces come together, with the GiveWise community cheering us on along the way. I’m deeply grateful for this team and the impact we’re creating.