We're Hiring: Administrative Assistant - Part Time

Job Title: Administrative Assistant - Part Time

Location: This will be a remote position.

Compensation:  $21/hour, approximately 5-20 hours a week

The Opportunity

At Akin, we’re excited to bring your eye for detail, your organization skills, and your creative aptitude to our organization. Reporting to the Facilities Manager, Studio Operations Manager, and Director your responsibilities will include: 

• Regular, ongoing administration related to Akin memberships, and supporting ongoing initiatives such as the Akin Studio Rent Relief Fund

• Supporting with administrative tasks related to Akin’s leases, contracts, payment processing, applications, purchases, and accounting

• Studio and Akin community research, file, and data management

• Managing and organizing applications on an as-needed basis for the Akin Studio Program, hiring at Akin, and other special projects

• Managing Akin’s Google listings for all locations

• Managing Akin Membership data in our member management software (software used: Pickspace and Quickbooks)

• Supporting the Studio Operations Manager with Customer Relationship Management data (software used: Streak)

• Occasional administrative support related to marketing and programming (software used: Hootsuite, and Squarespace)

• Calendar management using Google Calendar

• Payment processing

• Studio inventory management

• Note-taking and other participation in meetings with the Akin team members on an as-needed basis. 

• Optional: joining one or more of Akin’s Committees, depending on your interests and experience/skill set (Programming, Marketing, Community Experience, Conflict Resolution, Fundraising) 

• Optional: Participating in community building Akin events and programming. 

Benefits: You will have access to a free shared membership at Akin or a free Dedicated Studio (100sf or less), as well as access to the Akin Office located near Yonge and Bloor. You will also be able to book Akin’s Remote Gallery for 3 days for free ($450 value). 

To Apply: Submit resume and cover letter by email to work@akincollective.com (one PDF preferred) with “[YOUR NAME] - ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT” in the subject line. Please have your file(s) labeled with your name as well. 

Love Letter to your Art Practice

Do you hold love for your art practice? How do you recognize it? How do you show it? A Love Letter to your Practice facilitated by Yasmeen Nematt Alla, invites artists, makers, and creatives to join us for a writing and meditation workshop to celebrate the love we hold for our art practices. For most of us, our practices have supported our passions, our livelihoods, and our mental health. We hope to spend time together gathering as we discuss ways to show care to the very things that push us forward.

This event will take place online on March 9th at 6PM to 7:30PM.

Please join the event with a writing or drawing utensil and some paper.

You can sign up in our link: http://ow.ly/eERM50I3TwH

Yasmeen Nematt Alla(she/her) is an Egyptian immigrant and settler living in Tkaronto, Turtle Island (colonially known as Toronto, Ontario). Her practice centres alienated collectivist narratives from an immigrant’s and an interpreter’s perspective. As someone who lives between cultures, she deciphers language barriers attached to togetherness through textiles, performance, and reactive sculptures that are often situated in social practice. She wonders how translation, experiences, and visuals intertwine with care, grief, and community building.

In Response to Growing COVID-19 Changes

As COVID-19 continues to affect our community, we are determined to keep you informed on how these changes can impact Akin members. The Ontario government recently announced an Update to Public Health Measures in response to Omicron (COVID-19), temporarily moving to a modified Step Two of the Roadmap to Reopen.

While Akin studios remain open at this time to members, we have revised our studio policies in response to the rapidly spreading and highly transmissible Omicron Variant, we continue to adjust our policies in order to protect Akin members and our community as a whole. Click here to view Akin's COVID-19 Protocol at Akin Studios.

Some additional changes in the Public Health Measures from the Ontario Government which may impact some Akin Members:

• PCR testing and contract tracing is no longer widely available in Ontario unless you are a "high-risk" individual. The full list of who is eligible for PCR testing and contract tracing can be found here. In addition, most individuals with a positive result from a rapid antigen test will no longer be required or encouraged to get a confirmatory PCR or rapid molecular test.

• If you have been in close contact with someone with COVID-19, or if you have COVID-19 symptoms, or have tested positive for COVID-19 with a rapid test, the government is advising that you assume it is COVID-19 and you self-isolate for a minimum of 10 days. 

• Individuals with COVID-19 symptoms who are vaccinated will be required to isolate for 105 days following the onset of symptoms. Their household contacts are also required to isolate with them. These individuals can end isolation after five days if their symptoms are improved for at least 24 hours and all public health and safety measures, such as masking and physical distancing, are followed. 

• Individuals who are unvaccinated, partially vaccinated or immunocompromised will be required to isolate for a minimum of 10 days. 

• If you have COVID-19 (or have symptoms or been in touch with someone who has) you should also notify your close contacts. A close contact is anyone you were less than two metres away from for at least 15 minutes, or multiple shorter lengths of time, without personal protective equipment in the 48 hours before your symptoms began or your positive test result, whichever came first. 

• Employers cannot threaten, fire, or penalize an employee in any other way because the employee took or plans on taking job-protected leave due to COVID-19, and doctors notes are not required for employees to use the leave. You can learn more about job-protected leave here.

If you require assistance while isolating, visit COVID-19: Support for people. You can also contact their public health unit for many isolation supports including:

• Use of isolation facilities;

• Referral to community supports and agencies;

• Mental health supports;

• Courier and delivery supports for food and necessities;

Additional resources available to support isolation through the High Priority Communities strategy.

Please don’t hesitate to email us with any questions or concerns at info@akincollective.com

We hope the upcoming days are safe and healthy for you and your loved ones,

Akin

Happy Holidays from Akin!

The year is coming to an end and we wanted to wish each of you a warm and safe holiday season. This was a year of recovery, reflection, and of supporting our community of artists. The past year marked many milestones with Akin and we wanted to take a minute to acknowledge said milestones and share with you some of the highlights of the 2021. 

A Growing Akin!

Image Description: 8 Akin members and staff are gathered together. They are smiling at the camera and are standing over some benches and the corner of a brick building.

We began the year with the introduction of our six new Akin Projects board members, and welcomed Tannis Nielsen as our Indigenous Studio Space Advisor. Throughout the year we also added three new Akin staff members to our growing team. 

We celebrated our 2021 RBC Space Award Winners, BigArtTO Artists, Akin members at TOAF, and saw many more of you create around the city in new and exciting ways. Our ongoing series of @akinprojects Instagram Takeovers has featured the works and thoughts of our artists and makers.

You helped us support artists:

Image Description: On a white background is text that reads How have we allocated resources from the Akin Rent Relief Fund?. A pie graph breaks down three sections: the biggest slice in the darkest orange has text that reads $20,389 distributed out to over a 100 artists." The second slice in orange has text that reads, $1,159 Akin's admin, and the final darker orange slice has text that reads $1640 left in funds. In the right upper corner is the Akin logo.

Funded by artists and our generous donors, our Rent Relief Fund distributed $20,389 out to over 100 artists in the city of Toronto and continues to support our members. We’ve also launched our Friends of Akin Donor Program which helps bring to life our vision and mission to sustain and improve the art ecosystem in Toronto for the next generation of artists and communities. 

We said goodbye to spaces we loved; Akin X Collision Gallery, Akin Lakeshore, and Akin Ossington. Endings however are often signs of new beginnings because we also launched Akin Logan, and are looking forward to welcoming a new cohort of artists to the Akin Studio Program at Auto BLDG as well as launching new studio locations across the city in the new year!

Despite the challenges of the year, we held a number of exhibitions, workshops, show and tells, and get togethers—some even in real life!—and through it we created, shared, and connected over our art practices. 

We're so grateful for YOU!

Image Description: A number of people gathered in a studio space that contains hung up art as well as tables and chairs. There is a person at the front speaking as the people look towards them.

Finally, a huge thank you to our studio members for being a part of our community! Akin would not exist without your passion, your dedication, your creations, your support and your presence. Thank you for sharing through these times with us and we are looking forward to another year together. 

Have a wonderful end of your year and here’s to brighter days ahead and a kind, healthy and joyful new year.  

With care and warmth, 

Akin

Goodbye Akin Ossington

After 5 years of creation, community building, and holding space for artists, most recently, through an ongoing pandemic, Akin has said goodbye to Akin Ossington. Our studios closed permanently on September 30, 2021.

Located at 888 Dupont St, Akin Ossington contained our first studio dedicated to providing workspace for light industrial art making. With over 70 studio workspaces in total, ranging from 20 square feet to 250 square feet, this space allowed for both shared and private studios for artists as well as thoughtful creative programming to complement its creative members. 

This century-old historic building, used by many artists over the years was significant in many ways for the city, but also for Akin, from being one of Akin's most populated and active spaces, to holding Akin’s very first Community fridge, Akin Ossington created space for artists to gather, create, and connect with one another. Like many other spaces, Akin Ossington was heavily affected by the COVID 19 pandemic. With the support of TAS, the owner of the property, Akin was able to mitigate the rent costs and allow our artists some financial relief towards their studio spaces during a period during which artists and creatives were hit the hardest.

“It’s so disheartening to let go of a space that we’ve loved for so long. Having conversations about losing one of our studios in the middle of a pandemic showcases how much organizations like Akin need long-term spaces in the city.” - Oliver Pauk, Akin’s Founder and Director 

Since opening its first modest space in West Queen West 13 years ago, Akin has endeavoured to make being an artist an affordable and viable vocation in our city. Now more than ever, we feel Akin’s role is an important one for Toronto's cultural community and artists, as we ensure that there is always space to create, to build, and to work.

A space filled with people standing in the background. In the foreground are two people holding guitars and playing. One is wearing a blue jacket and the other is wearing a lilac sweater. Around them are speakers and guitar cases.

Instead of mourning however, Akin chose to celebrate the memories created together. TAS, Manual Arts, and Akin partnered together to bring the Akin Community a goodbye party featuring drinks, friends, and live music. Moreno Zulu, MOMxW¥FE, and Bingo Day were some of the local artists that brought their talents to 888 Dupont one last time.

Akin Ossington members were supported during the studio closure by Akin staff and team. Many of the artists have relocated their studio to our existing other Akin locations, or have been added to waiting lists for Akin’s two upcoming new studio locations in the East End.

Akin wants to thank the Akin Ossington studio members from the last five years for their creativity, collaborative spirit, patience and for contributing to the vibrant artist community in the building, and in the city. We also want to thank Berat OĞUR for capturing and putting together our Akin Ossington tribute video.

Although it is sad to say goodbye to Akin Ossington, it is exciting to look forward to the future and Akin is excited to be opening new studio locations in 2022. 

For more information, waiting list inquiries,  or to share ideas, please get in touch with info@akincollective.com. Please note that all our studios are at capacity at this time, but we are happy to share info with you and to add you to one of our waiting lists. 

Akin is coming to Regent Park!

Toronto, ON - November 11, 2021. Akin is thrilled to announce that we are opening a brand new studio location, Akin Regent Park. We are looking forward to creating a space for our artists in Canada’s largest and oldest public housing neighbourhood.

Akin Regent Park studio members will have access to the space for a minimum of 3 years. There will be approximately 6 Shared Memberships available for $71/month, which includes access to shared working areas, shared storage, kitchen, and bathroom. There will also be approximately 16 Dedicated Memberships available (your own studio) with studios ranging from 30sf for $191 / month - 112sf for $485 / month. There are no completely private studios at this location, or studios over 112sf. 

Located at Akin Regent Park at 658 Dundas Street East which is on the Dundas 505 streetcar or Dundas 505 bus route and near  the 501 Queen streetcar route, 65 Parliament bus route, 365 Parliament Night bus and the 301 Queen Blue Light Night Route. 

The closest wheelchair accessible stop is Dundas St East at Regent Park Blvd, Stop ID: 15873, which is 210m  from the studio and the closest Dundas St East at River St, Stop ID: 2126 which is 110m from the studio.

You can view a map of the location at this link: 658 Dundas Street East, Toronto, ON

After years of planning, Akin Regent Park will be opening in the heart of a community that is known for its creativity and its resilience. While Akin’s nomadic nature has served it for many years, we are excited to occupy a new space where Akin artists are at the forefront of the planning process from the space’s very conception. 

A Toronto map of Akin studios in grey lines in the background. In the foreground is text that reads in black, "Deadline: Nov 25, 2021" In red text it reads, "Community Survey." with a large dot leading to a cylinder shape with a black outline and text that reads, "Akin Regent Park." On the bottom right is Akin's logo; a decagram star shape with the word akin in its centre.

In efforts to create a space that compliments the community that will occupy it, we’ve created an Akin Regent Park Community Survey to inform us of the needs of the artists that this space will be serving. We want to hear artists’ thoughts about spaces, programming, and other essentials: What do YOU want to see? What kind of programming will enrich your future community and excite you into building this new creative studio? Please fill out our Akin Regent Park Community Survey by November 25 to help us create the best space possible! 

We cannot wait to hear your thoughts and needs in our survey and we are looking forward to sharing this space with you soon! 

You can share our survey on our Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. 

For any questions please contact info@akincollective.com for more information.

Akin is Hiring a Facilities Assistant! Deadline to Apply August 18, 2021

Akin is hiring a part-time Facilities Assistant!
There are some additional details about the role in this blog post, please visit our Jobs page for the full listing. Apply by August 18, 2021.

Job location: This position will work at all Akin locations, including future new studios across Toronto.

Introduction:
Hi, I’m Sally Hood Ranscombe and I am the Facilities Manager at Akin. I began working with Akin on a casual basis when we launched in 2008. In 2019 I started working part-time in a new role as the Facilities Manager supporting Akin in various ways with all of our facilities and supplies. I'm a freelance interior designer. I’m currently looking for a, contractual Facilities Assistant to support me on-site at Akin locations with facilities and supplies-related tasks.  

As the Facilities Assistant you should have your own set of hand power tools, access to a vehicle and a valid Ontario’s driver license. You should be comfortable driving a cube van or small moving truck (as we frequently rent these) and be able to complete physical tasks such as lifting up to 70lbs plywood sheets and climbing a ladder. You should have strong communication skills and be able to read basic floor plans and follow precise measurements. I am looking for someone with the ability to work independently to complete assigned tasks on-site. Experience with general construction, maintenance, repairs would be an asset, as would be the ability to troubleshoot when an issue arises and to correspond with the appropriate tradesperson. 

You would work directly with me as your supervisor, and will also be supported by Akin;s Studio Operations Manager, Studio Managers and Studio Assistants.  You can find out more about the whole Akin Team at www.akincollective.com/team. You may also interact occasionally with tradespeople, studio members, property managers and property owners. Since our organization is very member-focused, we are hoping to connect with someone who enjoys interacting with others and is happy to communicate, on a logistical basis, with our staff and studio members.

About Akin: 
Akin is a Toronto based arts organization established for the purpose of providing both studio spaces as well as creative and professional development opportunities to members of Toronto’s artistic and cultural community and the public at large. Since 2015, we have been able to support over 2,500 individuals through our offered services. Akin’s affordable studios and shared workspaces currently provide workspace for about 200 artists across our 6 locations. Akin is dedicated to providing a working environment that maintains a friendly and inspiring atmosphere where people can work on creative endeavours and entrepreneurial undertakings of all kinds. Akin builds community through monthly art critiques, workshops, open studio events, gallery tours, exhibitions, as well as various other art projects. 

For more information about Akin, please visit: www.akin.art

If you’re interested in applying or would like to learn more please visit the Akin Projects jobs page or click here to download a pdf of the job posting.

Thanks for your interest! Please share widely!

Call for Ceramic Artist and Organizations Input - Deadline July 15, 2021

Just a reminder to the ceramics lovers out there that Akin's Ceramic Studio Survey is due on July 15th 2021.

Akin is inviting artists in the GTA to help us improve our ceramics services by filling out a short survey. This survey is intended for groups or individuals of all experience levels who work with ceramics, including creatives who do not currently work with ceramics but want or plan to.

The survey can be found on our website at: www.akin.art/survey

Please share widely!

Survey deadline: July 15, 2021

Thanks so much for your help and input! The survey is anonymous and voluntary and all the questions are optional; it’s about 5-10 minutes. The intention for this survey is not to compete with other ceramic studios, services and workspaces but to compliment them by assessing needs that may not be currently met in the city and surrounding area. As we hope you know, Akin is dedicated to serving artists and creative workers, and we strive to provide important and thoughtful programming and studio spaces. Your input helps make this happen! Thank you so much for your time and for helping Akin to learn and better serve our community.

Akin would also like to thank our advisors Janet Hinkle and Natalie Wadell for guiding our work in developing this survey. If you have any questions please let us know! You can email us at info@akincollective.com.

#torontoceramics #CraftOntario #akinstudios #CanadianCeramics #ArtToronto #CanadianArtists#CanadianArtists

Ceramics Community Needs Assessment Survey - deadline to reply is June 15

Calling ceramics artists and businesses in the GTA! Akin is inviting you to help us improve our services for ceramic artists in the city by filling out a short survey. This survey is intended for Toronto and GTA-based groups or individuals of all experience levels who work with ceramics. This includes creatives who do not currently work with ceramics but want/plan to, emerging artists, hobbyists and those who only use ceramics occasionally as a part of their practice as well as established artists and professional craftspeople. Please share widely! Click the link below to fill out the survey.

CLICK HERE TO FILL OUT THE SURVEY

The survey is anonymous and voluntary and all the questions are optional, so you can skip any questions that don't apply to you. It should only take you about 5-10 minutes to fill out the survey. We appreciate your time and ask that you consider sharing the survey link with other ceramic artists and groups in your network so that we may reach a diverse and broad range of practitioners at every stage to get comprehensive results. 

The intention for this survey is not to compete with other ceramic studios, services and workspaces that are operating in Toronto but to compliment them by serving needs that may not be currently met in the city and surrounding area. Currently, ceramic artists comprise approximately 15% of Akin’s new inquiries and that percentage seems to be increasing gradually over time. It has become clear to us that there is a need for ceramics workspace, ceramics community space, kiln firing services, and more in the GTA at this time. With this survey we endeavor to gather more specific data on that need. 

The deadline to fill out the survey is July 15, 2021.

Here is the link to the survey if you would like to share it with others: https://forms.gle/v2yxPcHJfvw98dzo7

• Here is a Twitter post is you would like to retweet

• Here is an Instagram post if you would like to repost

Thank you! If you have any questions please do not hesitate to get in touch! email ceramics@akincollective.com

Akin would like to thank our advisors Janet Hinkle and Natalie Waddell for guiding our work in developing this survey. 

Image description: photograph of Janet Hinkle

Janet Hinkle is a multidisciplinary artist with a practice rooted in both contemporary fine art and craft. Hinkle has a fondness for mixing juxtaposing materials to create work that frequently explores shared histories through visual narratives. She is driven to explore concepts around identity, pulling inspiration from both mid-century forms and futuristic design. In addition to her creative practice, Hinkle coordinates communications plans, art projects, and artist capacity-building programs. She is an arts administrator and creative facilitator passionate about placemaking and community building. 

Janet was an active Akin studio member from 2015-2020. Starting her ceramics practice at Akin Dufferin, she eventually moved onto Akin Ossington and Akin Richmond where she founded and managed a full-time ceramics brand for many years.

Image description: photograph of Natalie Waddell

Natalie Waddell is a Toronto based ceramic artist. A student of the Sheridan College Ceramic Craft and Design program (2003) she has continued her studies by attending workshops led by local and international ceramic artists and educators.

Since establishing her studio practice Natalie has continuously explored and developed new bodies of functional and sculptural work as well as teaches classes and workshops. She is an active member of the Toronto Potters Association, the Potters Guild of Hamilton and Region, FUSION: Ontario Clay and Glass Association and NCECA – the National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts and Craft Ontario and former member of the Akin Artist Collective. 

Akin Launches New East End Location (Logan/Queen St.E)

Akin is thrilled to announce a unique partnership with Percy Ellis which will provide studio space to a dozen local visual artists and cultural practitioners at 'Akin Logan' (153 Logan Avenue) beginning on March 1, 2021. This exciting project will increase Akin’s ability to support artists city-wide and continue addressing the ever-increasing scarcity of affordable workspace in our city.

Akin's new studios are easily accessible by subway, streetcar, bus, bike, or car. Studio rentals are month-to-month and include 24/7 access to the studios, taxes, insurance, wifi, access to communal working areas as well as storage, kitchen, and bathroom.

Akin would like to thank Percy Ellis for their leadership in supporting the cultural sector in these uniquely challenging times, and we look forward to collaborating on special programming, projects and events throughout 2021 (hopefully in person soon!). A special thank you to Katie Schimke, Associate Development Manager & Community Engagement Team and to Peter Venetas for bringing this project to life.

Due to overwhelming need, we have offered the first studio spaces to folks from our East End waiting list, including those from Akin River and Akin Sunrise - two East End Akin locations that had to close in 2020. For now, this space is already full!

Are you an artist, arts organization or small arts group or not-for-profit in need of space?

Click HERE to view available space across all Akin locations

Studio tours are currently virtual and by appointment only. For more information, pricing inquiries, to be added to an east end waitlist, or to share ideas, please get in touch:

CONTACT:
Jen Pilles, Studio Operations Manager
info@akincollective.com

Welcome Tannis Nielsen, Indigenous Studio Space Advisor at Akin!

Akin is thrilled to welcome artist and community leader Tannis Nielsen as Indigenous Studio Space Advisor- leading Akin through a collaborative consultation practice in the planning and development of Indigenous community services, spaces and supports throughout our studios, programs and more. Alongside Indigenous Elder Artist in Residence Catherine Tammaro (Taǫmęˀšreˀ), Anti-oppressive Practice Consultant, Equity & Social Justice Educator Rania El Mugammar and Akin’s team, Tannis will advise on meaningful, actionable engagement with the Indigenous community while assessing needs and opportunities for the next phase of our work.

We want to hear from YOU!

As part of their role, Tannis is leading two upcoming virtual public community meetings to discuss Akin’s efforts in supporting Indigenous artists & creatives on February 13 (1-3pm) and February 16 (7-9pm). All are welcome to attend and we would love for your feedback and input. Please note that these sessions will be recorded for internal use as part of our research but not shared publicly and no content will be specifically attributed to individuals.

Image description: Tannie Nielsen standing on a ladder while working on a large-scale elaborate artwork, smiling at the camera

About Tannis:
Tannis Nielsen is a Métis Woman (of Sohto/Anishnawbe and Danish descent) with twenty years of professional experience in the arts, cultural and community sectors, and 12  years teaching practice at the post-secondary level. Tannis holds a Masters in Visual Studies Degree (M.V.S.) from the University of Toronto, an Art and Art History-Specialist Degree from U of T, as well as a Diploma in Art and Art History from Sheridan College, in Oakville, Ontario.

Tannis has served on the Aboriginal Engagement Committee at UBC-O, as a member of the Equity and Diversity Committee at OCAD-U, the Toronto District School Board, and is the past President of The Association for Native Development in the Performing and Visual Arts (A.N.D.P.V.A.), a national Native arts organization in service since 1972. She was also a member of the Toronto Native Community History Project and has assisted in organizing the last three annual “Indigenous Sovereignty Week” events in the city of Toronto. In 2012, Tannis became active on the Idle No More-Toronto organizing committee and continues to contribute towards this vital international Indigenous grassroots movement from her current location in Toronto, Ontario where she currently teaches at OCAD-U. 

Accessibility:
Have a computer or mobile device? Then you're good to go! Should you have any additional accessibility accommodations, requests or ideas, please email laura@akincollective.com to discuss.Captions available on-screen. Mobile phones may require a downloadable app from Google Hangouts.

We're Hiring! Call for New Development Officer

Akin Projects 
Job Posting: Development Officer
Deadline: August 31, 2020

JOB TITLE:             Development Officer, Akin Projects

REPORTS TO:        Fundraising Subcommittee, Akin Board of Directors   

DURATION:            1 year contract, ability to work remotely and flexible schedule. 

COMPENSATION:  $21/hour, 21 hours per week

Akin is a Toronto-based, artist-run social enterprise (consisting of sister organizations Akin Projects & Akin Collective) located on Ancestral Wendat territory and the territory of the Anishinaabe and the Haudenosaunee, providing affordable studio space to nearly 250 artists in its 8 locations and programs roughly 40 arts-based events per year across the city. Akin is run by artists, and is dedicated to providing a working environment that maintains a friendly and inspiring atmosphere where people can work on creative endeavours and entrepreneurial undertakings of all kinds. Akin builds community through monthly art critiques, workshops, open studio events, gallery tours, exhibitions, as well as various other art projects.

For more information about Akin, please visit: www.akin.art

SUMMARY OF FUNCTION:

Reporting to the Fundraising subcommittee, this position works alongside Akin Co-Directors and the Fundraising subcommittee of the Board of Directors to support fundraising efforts and revenue generation across Akin Programs. Current and future initiatives include Akin Membership, grants and government funding, fundraising events, special campaigns and general undesignated donations.

Activities within this portfolio include (but are not limited to): drafting and preparing correspondence, leading grant writing and fundraising proposals, processing donations, coordinating stewardship activities and events including large annual fundraiser, tracking fundraising efforts and reconciling results with Akin financial reporting, and tracking expenses. The Development Officer must liaise effectively with internal colleagues, volunteers and donors on a regular basis.

We recognize that the current ongoing Covid-19 crisis can present unique challenges, difficulties and working barriers. We are flexible and empathetic to this, and part of the interview process will be discussing what an ideal work environment and set up would look like for candidates.

PROCESS:

Adapting the Toronto Arts Council’s Equity Priority Group Policy, applicants who self-identify as belonging to one (or more) of Toronto Arts Council’s Equity Priority Groups (Persons of Colour, Deaf Persons, Persons with Disabilities and Persons Living with Mental Illness, Indigenous, 2SLGBTQIAP) will all be prioritized. We encourage applications from these communities and will endeavour to accommodate job applicants with a disability during the hiring process in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code guidelines and other applicable legislation.

Akin Projects has committed to at least 50% BIPOC representation at the Board and staff levels and has an ongoing commitment to anti-oppressive practices, equity and inclusion and an effort to engage diverse communities and artists in our organization and across our programs. This work includes Anti-Oppression training and the development of a revised Code of Conduct and needs assessment strategies.Akin is actively prioritizing self-identifying applicants from Black and Indigenous communities.

DUTIES:

Performs duties in accordance with department systems and Akin policies and procedures including security, administration, human resources and workplace health and safety.  

Philanthropy (50%):

• In collaboration with Akin leadership and Board volunteers, identifies and explores new fundraising channels and prospects including individual, corporation and foundation support.                                                                                                                                     

• As directed, supports the solicitation and stewardship of fundraising efforts by assisting with the preparation of proposals, reports, solicitation packages, membership materials, and general correspondence. Maintains accurate and complete records such as action tracking, gift details, grant deadlines, pledge payments, and related materials.                                                                                                             

• Seeks support through grants, including the identification of available grants, proposal writing and submission, as well as the creation of necessary reports for granting bodies.

• Responds to fundraising-related inquiries, prepares personalized correspondence to donors, and ensures appropriate materials are included with mailings.

• Facilitates and supports the launch of Akin’s broader membership program, from membership announcements to securing membership payments and ensuring access to benefits.           

• Maintains relationships with donors, partners, sponsors and stakeholders, working with Akin leadership and the Board to develop and prompt for regular updates and stewardship touchpoints.     

• Under the direction of the Co-Directors and Board Fundraising Committee, coordinates fundraising events, including speakers, invitations, RSVP lists, sourcing in-kind support and expense reconciliation. Develops event reports used to evaluate event success and future planning.

• Provides regular updates to the Fundraising subcommittee of the Akin Board of Directors. Prepares and attends meetings, coordinating meeting materials. Prepares and distributes meeting minutes. Prepares Committee assignments and follows up with Committee members on assigned tasks. 

• Works with Akin staff and the Board to ensure philanthropic impact stories and messaging are clear in Akin marketing materials and communications, where appropriate.      

Administration (40%):

• Using the information in the database, develops prospect, financial and other database reports and lists.  

• Ensures donations are processed and tracked. Prepares the appropriate correspondence and outreach for donations received. Ensures donors are awarded appropriate recognition/benefits for gift(s)

• Once Akin’s membership program is launched: tracks new members and membership renewals, from receiving payment to acknowledging the gift and delivering membership materials and benefits. Tracks renewals and follows up with expiring and lapsed members to prompt renewals, as required.

• Provides general administrative support such as recording of minutes, follow-up on action items, document preparation, coordinating special mailings, filing, sending of courier packages, faxing, photocopying, etc. Performs other duties as required.     

Financial Reporting (10%):

• Responsible for tracking and monitoring fundraising revenue and expenses. Verifies computer reports, including financial statements and membership status; investigates errors and takes corrective action. Maintains reporting systems for all fundraising-related activities.        
  

RELEVANT QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCES:

• 1-2 years of fundraising experience in a Development environment. 

• Demonstrated experience coordinating and tracking fundraising efforts, including campaigns, membership and fundraising events.

• Experience drafting and coordinating e-blasts, membership collateral, and other donor communications.

• Experience working with Boards and/or a volunteer committee, following up with prospective members, preparing prospect reports, and coordinating meeting activities.

• Well-developed administrative, analytical and organizational skills.

• Well-developed interpersonal and public relations skills to interface with major donors, volunteers and staff.

• Experience supporting the planning of donor and member events.

• Knowledge of and ability to maintain professional standards.

• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in applicable computer programs and donor databases such as MailChimp, the Google suite, Keyboarding skills.

• Knowledge of the visual arts an asset.

EFFORT:

• Ensure all information is kept confidential

• Handles multiple projects concurrently

• Continual attention to detail with accuracy

• Some pressure related to meeting deadlines

WORKING CONDITIONS:

•  Flexibility in hours of work to allow attendance at events.

To Apply:

Please email your résumé with any applicable web links (in PDF format) to laura@akincollective.com with the subject heading: ATTN: Development Officer.

Akin is actively prioritizing self-identifying applicants from Black and Indigenous communities.

Application Accessibility Support

Applicants who require additional resources, support or time to apply can request as such. Please request this assistance at least one week in advance of the submission deadline. To do so, or for additional information, please contact michael@akincollective.com.

Application deadline: 11:59 pm, August 31, 2020

Position start date: September 2020 (flexible)

Call for Board of Directors Members

Akin Projects

Call for Board of Directors Members

Deadline: August 31, 2020

Akin is an artist-run social enterprise (consisting of sister organizations Akin Projects & Akin Collective) located on Ancestral Wendat territory and the territory of the Anishinaabe and the Haudenosaunee in Toronto. We provide affordable studio space to approximately 250 artists within our 8 locations and programming of roughly 50 arts-based events per year across the city. Akin Projects is a registered nonprofit, established in 2015, providing artists and creatives with the support they need for creative production and development of their careers to benefit and enhance the communities where they work and live. We have offered services to thousands of individuals since our inception through our creative studios and arts programming. Akin Projects builds community through monthly art critiques, workshops, open studio events, gallery tours, exhibitions, and various other art projects.

For more information about Akin Projects, please visit: www.akinprojects.org

Akin Projects is seeking six (6) individuals to join its Board of Directors. These individuals will ideally bring expertise, dedication, lived experience and vision to our organization. We are seeking additions to our team with a variety of qualifications and interests including financial expertise/treasurer, public programming, marketing, government relations and fundraising, human resources, board governance as well as familiarity with Akin and the larger visual arts community in Toronto and ideally, previous board experience. We strongly encourage and will prioritize the applications of practicing artists and creatives, including current and former Akin members.

Akin Projects’ Board of Directors is a working Board. Each member is expected to attend six Board meetings per year, participate in committee work between meetings, and commit to serving a two-year term. 

Akin Projects has committed to at least 50% BIPOC representation at the Board and staff levels. 

PROCESS:

Adapting the Toronto Arts Council’s Equity Priority Group Policy, we will be prioritizing applicants who self-identify as belonging to one (or more) of Toronto Arts Council’s Equity Priority Groups (Black, Indigenous, Persons of Colour, Deaf Persons, Persons with Disabilities and Persons Living with Mental Illness, 2SLGBTQIAP). We encourage applications from these communities and will endeavour to accommodate applicants with a disability during the hiring process in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code guidelines and other applicable legislation.

This effort is part of an ongoing commitment to anti-oppressive practices, equity and inclusion at Akin and an effort to engage diverse communities and artists within our organization and across our programs This includes Anti-Oppression training and the continual revision of our Code of Conduct and needs assessment strategies. 

Commitments & of each Akin Projects Board member include:

• Regular attendance at Board meetings and all related meetings, along with a commitment to actively participate in work as it arises and participate in at least one Board committee.

• Being an active, informed and engaged participant in Akin Projects matters including preparing for meetings, reviewing and commenting on minutes and Reports, attending Akin Projects events and training exercises,

• Familiarizing yourself with the activities of the organization and the larger arts community in Toronto, while also building a strong working relationship with fellow board members and Staff as applicable.

• Participation in fundraising for the organization, and volunteering time to assist at programs

• A deep interest in supporting artists, creatives and the arts sector.

Please note that Board members are volunteers and therefore cannot be financially compensated by Akin Projects for their related work while serving on the Board.

To Apply:

Please email a brief (one page maximum) statement explaining why you are interested in this volunteer position along with your CV, résumé or statement of experience and any applicable web links (in PDF format) to laura@akincollective.com with the subject heading: ATTN: Board of Directors Position.

Akin is actively prioritizing self-identifying applicants from Black and Indigenous communities.

Application Accessibility Support

Applicants who require additional resources, support or time to apply can request as such. Please request this assistance at least one week in advance of the submission deadline. To do so, or for additional information, please contact michael@akincollective.com.

Application deadline: 11:59 pm, August 31, 2020

Successful applicants will be contacted no later than September 9, 2020.

COVID-19 Update - March 16th 2020

Dear Friends of Akin, 

Unfortunately, due to the rapidly changing COVID-19 situation, Akin has made the decision to halt all programming for the next 3 weeks including the Akin X Collision Gallery Group Exhibition and Launch Party, the Akin Lakeshore group exhibition Driftwork at Cloverdale Common, and the Spring Art Crawl. Collision Gallery, and Remote Gallery will also be closed during this time.  Akin's spring programming is currently scheduled to resume on April 6th 2020. Our first concern is the health and safety of our community is our top priority at this time and although the risk in Canada is still relatively low, we should do whatever possible to stop it from spreading.

At this time all Akin studios will remain open to members, although we are strongly encouraging members to refrain from non-essential studio use for at least the next three weeks. We know that things are stressful at the moment, but hope that this pause from normal routines can provide an opportunity to explore new ideas, and engage with your creativity in new ways. Looking for a break? Check out the top 10 guided meditations from last year here.

We will continue to keep you informed of any other changes as this situation evolves.

Best wishes for good health,

Akin

An Update from Akin regarding COVID-19 / Coronavirus

Dear Friends of Akin,

With growing global concerns around COVID-19 (“coronavirus”) we want to provide you with an update on our response to date. The health, safety and well-being of our community is Akin’s top priority and we are following the lead of Canadian public health authorities at this important time by taking steps to protect our studio members, our employees, and our programming attendees.

We understand concerns about COVID-19 and we are taking the necessary measures to reduce risk of transmitting the virus. We’ve taken additional steps to help ensure that our studio members and our employees are protected from the risk of infection and communicable diseases and are closely monitoring the situation 

At this time, all Spring programming at Akin will continue as planned with the exception of the March 26th Akin X Collision Gallery Launch Party which is cancelled until further notice. We will continue to follow the guidance of Health Canada and local health authorities. If the situation changes, we will inform you as soon as possible.

Please reach out to info@akincollective.com should you have any questions.

Thank you,

The Akin Team