Where do people go to feel connected, inspired, and part of a community?
In this episode of The SharedBrain Podcast, we explore the growing importance of “third places”—the spaces beyond home and work where people gather, build relationships, exchange ideas, learn, and develop a sense of belonging.
From libraries, parks, theatres, museums, and galleries to community gardens and cultural centres, third places can play a powerful role in strengthening communities and supporting individual and collective well-being.
But what does this have to do with philanthropy?
Our hosts explore how third places are evolving, why they matter in a time of increasing disconnection, and how philanthropy can help protect, strengthen, and reimagine these vital community spaces.
The conversation also explores:
• Why libraries and cultural organizations are much more than the services they traditionally provide
• How third places can support connection, learning, mental well-being, and intergenerational knowledge sharing
• The importance of preserving and reimagining existing community infrastructure
• How philanthropy can help address critical infrastructure gaps
• Why organizations should look beyond their traditional audiences when identifying potential supporters
• How partnerships can create new opportunities for fundraising and community impact
• Why organizations need to move beyond a scarcity mindset
• The importance of knowing your people and building meaningful relationships
• How curiosity, bold thinking, storytelling, and collaboration can strengthen fundraising
• Why organizations should start where they are, use what they have, and do what they can
At the heart of this conversation is a powerful question:
What can we do to strengthen the places that bring us together?
Meet the Hosts
John McCabe, Senior Consultant
With more than 35 years of experience across arts and culture, healthcare, faith-based organizations, and community services in Atlantic Canada, John has raised more than $75 million throughout his career. His consulting expertise includes major gifts, campaigns, board development, fund development planning, sponsorship, and donor relations.
Jeff Sodowsky, MBA, MA, CFRE — Vice President, Pacific & Senior Consultant
Jeff brings more than 30 years of experience across arts and culture, post-secondary education, healthcare, and community organizations. His work spans strategic planning, major gifts, campaigns, board development, communications, and data-informed fundraising.
Corrie Fortner, CFRE — Vice President, Prairies & Territories & Senior Consultant
With more than three decades of experience, Corrie works with leaders, Boards, and development teams to strengthen organizational capacity and long-term sustainability through strategic, ethical, donor-centred fundraising.
Stacey Scott-Nykolyshyn, CEC, PCC — Vice President, Atlantic & Senior Consultant
Stacey brings more than 30 years of experience in community and social services, healthcare, hospice and palliative care, and post-secondary education. A bilingual, professionally certified coach, she combines leadership, governance, organizational advancement, and fund development expertise.
Connect with Global Philanthropic Canada
Looking to strengthen your organization's fundraising strategy, build capacity, or develop deeper relationships with your community?
Book a free 30-minute consultation with our team:
John McCabe — https://globalphilanthropic.ca/experts/john-mccabe/
Jeff Sodowsky — https://globalphilanthropic.ca/experts/jeff-sodowsky/
Corrie Fortner — https://globalphilanthropic.ca/experts/corrie-fortner/
Stacey Scott-Nykolyshyn — https://globalphilanthropic.ca/experts/stacey-scott-nykolyshyn/
Learn more about Global Philanthropic Canada:
https://globalphilanthropic.ca/
🎧 Listen to Episode 16 of The SharedBrain Podcast and discover how third places, philanthropy, and stronger communities are deeply connected.
Watch our story unfold here!
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