JJ Sandler

Summary

Strategic problem-solver with 6+ years of cross-functional experience in fundraising, event strategy, volunteer operations, and early-stage project management. Founded and scaled an events startup with high engagement and ROI. Adept at building financial models, conducting market research, and leading diverse teams across disciplines. Thrive in ambiguous, fast-moving environments with a strong bias toward execution and learning. Seeking to build and scale ventures with purpose and velocity.

Overview

years of professional experience

Work History

Commissioner/Founder

Force of Nature Events

05.2025 - Current

Force of Nature Events transforms traditional fundraising by gamifying the donation experience. As Founder and Head of Strategy, I lead the development of competitive events that empower players to direct real funds to causes they care about—fusing entertainment with philanthropy.

Independent Insurance Agent

From the Ashes Financial Services

02.2022 - Current

Licensed Life and Health Insurance Advisor in Ontario with over 4 years of experience guiding individuals, families, and small business owners through personalized risk management and wealth protection strategies.

My approach goes beyond traditional insurance sales—I help clients:
• Protect income and assets through custom insurance solutions
• Convert non-deductible mortgage debt into tax-efficient investment vehicles
• Develop long-term retirement strategies using permanent insurance and segregated funds
• Navigate estate planning, succession strategies, and critical illness coverage

Education

Fundraising & Volunteer Management certificate

Humber College

Toronto, ON

08-2013

Bachelor’s Degree - Communications

University of Calgary

Calgary, AB

08-2010

Skills

Financial Modeling: Built P&Ls and forecasts for event budgets, donor projections, and campaign ROI
Market Research & Validation: Conducted donor behavior analysis, segmentation studies, and industry scans
Pitch & Deck Creation: Developed investor presentations and donor outreach decks with Canva, PowerPoint

Team & Process Operations: Led volunteer programs, streamlined operations, and implemented SOPs
CRM & Analytics: Raiser’s Edge, Salesforce, Excel, Google Sheets, WordPress
Soft Skills: Written and verbal communication, adaptability, creative problem-solving, follow-through

Affiliations

Scholarship Selection Committee, Association of Fundraising Professionals, 2014 - 2016
Kid Coach, Future Possibilities for Kids, 2014 - 2015
Mentor Meet and Greet, Association of Fundraising Professionals, 2014 - 2015
Employee Campaign Committee Member, United Way – York Region, 2014
Lead Volunteer, TELUS Spark Science Centre, 2011 - 2012

Timeline