40 Under 40

Ryan Drury, CFRE

Stollery Children's Hospital Foundation
Edmonton, AB

Why is a 40 under 40 winner

1. Ryan has been a leading driver of the philanthropic partnership between Stollery Children's Hospital and the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital Foundation nearly 500 kilometers away.

2. He has secured multiple six-figure gifts to support that partnership under the Key to Care Capital Campaign.

3. Ryan regularly volunteers instructing and mentoring fundraisers. He teaches the Fundamentals of Fundraising Course offered by AFP as well a CFRE review course that prepares people to take their CFRE exam, something he strongly believes that all fundraisers should do.

4. He has held multiple volunteer roles, including president, with the Edmonton Area Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.


Q & A

1. How did you get into health care philanthropy?

The Stollery Children’s Hospital is a remarkable facility in Edmonton changing lives for children and families every day. In 2013 I had the opportunity to join amazing colleagues and raise money for an incredible cause, it was a decision that I am so grateful to have made.


2. Why did you choose to make health care philanthropy your career?

Quality health care is vital for quality living. We are fortunate to live in a part of the world that supports the best that life has to offer and I am proud to work for an organization that allows children and families to live up to their full potential..


3. Tell us about a pivot point or crucial step in your career journey.

Joining the team at the team at the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation taught me how important it is to surround yourself with the right people. Our team is the greatest fundraising team I have ever worked with and they make all the difference in the world.


4. What was your first job, and what is something it taught you?

My first job was working at a local grocery store. It taught me the importance of hard work and how important your reputation is. I grew up in a small town so working at the grocery store I would run into everyone. I feel like fundraising in Edmonton has that small town feel to it too, so I pride myself on continuing to work hard and put the best version of myself out there every day. 


5. What are your future aspirations?

I want to continue to foster a culture of philanthropy everywhere I go. Whether at the Stollery, while volunteering with Association of Fundraising Professionals or supporting my children’s fundraising activities. I want to continue to give and be a contributing member in my community.
 
Ryan Drury

Fun Fact:

I have been an avid guitar player for over 20 years.