Calgary AB, (October 15, 2024) – Alpine Canada is pleased to welcome Joelle Efford to the organization in the new role of Executive Director, Development.  Joelle’s 15+ years of experience in development leadership, relationship-building, and strategic solutions that help organizations and high-net worth individuals fulfil their philanthropic vision make her an invaluable addition to Alpine Canada and for current and future donors.   

“Joelle brings a deep experience in fundraising, a passion for sport, and a unique ability to connect corporate and community to cause” said Therese Brisson, President & CEO of Alpine Canada.  “Her experience and reputation as a trusted development executive with a proven track record of delivering results will help grow our business to better serve our donors and ski community stakeholders, most importantly our talented group of athletes as they get ready to compete at the upcoming World Championships later this season and on the road to the Milano/Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games now just 18 months away.”   

Joelle has spent her career in progressive leadership positions in development, fundraising and events supporting various causes including the Daily Bread Food Bank, The Shine Foundation, Food for Life, and Golf Canada Foundation and has supported several clients through her fundraising consulting agency specializing in major giving, campaign strategy and events.  Most recently, Joelle served as the Senior Director, Development at the Golf Canada Foundation where she was responsible for delivering significant revenue growth, growing Major Gifts, stewarding a large portfolio of donors and fundraising events, and helped launch the foundation’s capital campaign.   

“I am excited to join the Alpine Canada team and support our talented athletes as we build on last year’s historic, record-breaking performances across multiple disciplines,” said the newly appointed Efford. “I extend my gratitude to the Board of Directors for entrusting me with the opportunity to lead our development efforts, supporting our teams towards podium success in the upcoming season and on the road to the 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. I look forward to collaborating with our valued donors, partners, and the broader ski racing community.” 

In her new role, Joelle will lead fundraising strategy, planning and implementation in support of Alpine Canada’s vision of being a world-leading ski racing nation and mission of increasing podium performances while inspiring growth in participation and fans.  Her broad scope of responsibilities will include donor relations and stewardship, Major Gifts, fundraising events, planned giving, and the evolution of Alpine Canada’s long standing and successful Podium Club.   

Joelle will begin her role on November 1, 2024.  Please join us in welcoming Joelle to Alpine Canada.  

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For more information or media inquiries please contact: 
Mark Halliday, Director Brand & Communications  
mhalliday@alpinecanada.org I 403-777-3204 

About Alpine Canada 
Alpine Canada is the governing body for alpine, para-alpine, and ski cross racing in Canada, as well as for Canadian ski coaches, providing education, certification, insurance, and compliance with the coaching code of conduct.  With the support of valued corporate partners and donors, along with the Government of Canada, Own the Podium, the Canadian Olympic Committee, and the Coaching Association of Canada, Alpine Canada develops Olympic, Paralympic, World Championship, and World Cup athletes to stimulate visibility, inspiration, and growth in the ski community.