At Do Gooders, we are united by a shared belief that our services have the power to transform lives. Our commitment is fueled by a genuine understanding of the impact we can make in partnership with the organizations we serve.
We believe not-for-profits deserve the help they need to raise awareness and funds so they can deliver vital services across Canada.
Founder, CEO
Kathleen Lemieux is a dynamic fundraising professional and a seasoned leader with over two decades of experience in the not-for-profit sector. Her track record is punctuated by a series of strategic successes in developing and executing fundraising plans. A certified fundraising professional and a longstanding 20-year member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), Kathleen is also one of the founding members of the AFP BC Interior Chapter.
Her dedication extends to serving on the National Philanthropy Committee. Kathleen’s commitment to professional development led her to complete the Boston University Professional Fundraising Program, culminating in the attainment of her CFRE designation in 2015. Furthermore, she is a certified digital marketer who remains at the forefront of the latest trends and platforms in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
Throughout her career, Kathleen has played a pivotal role in spearheading fundraising and awareness campaigns for prominent organizations such as Habitat for Humanity Okanagan, the Kelowna Women’s Shelter, and the Pacific Riding for Developing Abilities Association. Notably, she served as the Director of Logistics for Loyal Woolridge’s successful 2018 campaign for Kelowna city council.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Kathleen was nominated by her peers in 2020 for a “Crowe MacKay LLP Change Maker Award,” in collaboration with the inaugural Kelowna Women in Business RISE AWARDS. Her dedication and impact were further acknowledged in 2023 when she received an Honourable Distinction and was honored as one of the “Top 40 over 40” by the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce.
Do Gooders was awarded as a 2022 finalist ‘Rising Star Business of the Year’ by the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce during their 35th Business Excellence Awards and was nominated again in 2023.
Administrative & Client Services Manager
Patricia is an aspiring humanitarian with a bachelor’s degree in International Relations from the University of British Columbia.
With a keen interest in digital marketing, Patricia has successfully completed Alacrity Canada’s Digital Marketing Bootcamp and holds the Google Search Ads and Google Ads Display Professional certifications. She is committed to staying at the forefront of the rapidly evolving digital marketing landscape.
Combining her vibrant creativity, content creation skills, and passion for making a difference, Patricia collaborates closely with various nonprofit organizations to amplify the impact of their missions.
She firmly believes in the power of storytelling and effective digital strategies to drive positive change and connect people in our ever-changing world.
Grant Writer
Ivana is an experienced grant writer based in Ontario, Canada, with a strong track record of securing funding for various organizations. With nearly four years of experience, she has successfully worked with for-profit organizations, non-profits, and municipalities, securing grants of all sizes.
Ivana holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminology from the University of Toronto, combined with her Post-Graduate Diploma in Business Administration.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Ivana is known for her genuine love for animals. As an avid animal lover, she has two cats and actively supports animal welfare organizations in her community. Her dedication to both her work and her furry friends showcases her compassionate nature and commitment to making a difference.
Web Developer
Jithin is a web developer with a keen interest in Web User Experience and Cybersecurity. He has designed and developed several websites for small businesses and non-profits across Canada and the U.S. His expertise ranges from structuring, developing and implementing interactive and secure websites using WordPress.
Jithin loves to work collaboratively and is always eager to learn new web standards and trends.
When not working, Jithin can be found enjoying the Okanagan, – especially the trails and the wineries.
Grant Writer
Michelle has over 30- years experience focusing on community development and working to end violence against women. She is the former executive director of the Central Okanagan Elizabeth Fry Society where she led from 2013 to 2020. Michelle was also the Regional Coordinator, Community Coordination for the Women Safety Program for Ending Violence Association of BC from 2005 to 2013.
Other career highlights include working with the RCMP and municipal police to develop the first province-wide “third party reporting” protocol for reporting sexual assaults anonymously. In collaboration with Kelowna, BC RCMP Detachment she developed the first in BC Embedded Domestic Violence with Community-Based Victim Services working out of the detachment.
Michelle developed and facilitated three-day training on identifying and responding to risk in domestic violence cases. She also developed and facilitated workshop, “Developing a collaborative response to sexual assault” for hospital, police, victim services and transition house workers.
Michelle provided core victim service training through the Justice Institute of BC, and she provided workshops on Vicarious Traumatization across BC and Canada
Grant Writer
Gaelene has more than 25 years of experience working in the social justice sector, the last 15 years as Executive Director. Locally, she was the ED at the John Howard Society of the Central and South Okanagan, the Central Okanagan Journey Home Society and the BC First Nations Justice Council.
Gaelene has a Bachelor’s Degree in International Development with a minor in Conflict Resolution from the University of Winnipeg.
She fostered dogs for a number of years until the last one was a ‘foster fail’, so now her two dogs keep her active with walks and hikes every day. Much to the chagrin of many of her friends, she is an Oilers fan.
Digital Content & Grant Research Specialist
Kimera is a perpetual learner who leverages her creative and analytical abilities to make an impact in the world of digital marketing. She holds certifications in digital marketing, Google Ads Search and Measurement Certifications, a Post-Graduate Diploma in Business Administration with a specialization in marketing, and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Public Relations and Corporate Communication.
Her exceptional writing and editing skills are evident in her
mastering four languages and her continuous love for learning new languages and cultures.
She brings out her artistic side by exploring various arts such as knitting, weaving, painting, etc. and by being an avid reader. She loves travelling and has visited more than 25 countries! Her motto in life is to be kind and compassionate and to use her talents for the good of humanity.
Grant Researcher
Abbie is a seasoned grant administrator and manager with many years’ experience working to strengthen the not-for-profit sector in British Columbia. She has held a variety of roles in the sector including administrator, fundraiser and Executive Director. Abbie holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Okanagan College as well as a Masters of Business Administration from the University of Northern BC.
Office Administrator
With a track record of fostering positive interactions, Kat brings a wealth of expertise and a genuine dedication to community service to her role as Office Administrator. Drawing from her experience in entrepreneurship and social media management, she enriches the Do Gooders team with a multifaceted skill set. Her commitment to ongoing learning, coupled with a meticulous approach, ensures precision and efficiency in every task she undertakes.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kat’s personal engagement with not-for-profit organizations underscores her profound admiration for their mission-driven work. Her involvement reflects a deep-seated appreciation for initiatives aimed at enhancing the well-being of community members.
In addition to her professional endeavours, Kat’s passion for advocacy extends to her love for animals. Volunteering with local animal rescues, she dedicates her spare time to nurturing and caring for animals in need. Whether tending to her beloved dog or tending to her three horses, Kat’s compassionate nature shines through in ever aspect of her life.