At the beginning of the year, we all take stock of our lives and think of ways to change for the better. We look at how far we’ve come and start thinking about where we’d like to go. To salute the season of resolution-making and restock-taking, we’re highlighting women with careers that give back. Whether they’re helping out overseas or right here at home, for the next few weeks we’ll be celebrating women giving back to their communities.

Annette Paul is the director of development at The Daily Bread Food Bank. http://www.dailybread.ca/home/index.cfm

What does a typical Thursday look like for you, starting from when you wake up – to heading to bed?
I usually pop out of bed at 6 am. You have to when you live as far away from work as I do. After getting dressed and prepared for the day, including a hot coffee in hand, I am in the car to begin my 45 minute commute. My day at the office includes checking emails and taking calls, and meetings with my staff or other members of our management team around issues concerning our work at one of the busiest food banks in the country. Additionally, my day could also include external meetings with corporate donors. It is typically a fast-paced day that flies by! I am then back in the car again for my day-ending commute, but not before either a stop at the gym, or the grocery store. An extra-fun Thursday could end with dinner or drinks with friends!

What was your first job out of school?
My first job out of school was at the YMCA of Greater Toronto where I had a part-time job answering phones! I later graduated into my first fundraising job, writing proposals to corporations, asking for money to fund our programs across the city. That was almost 10 years ago!

What are the 3 skills you require most to do your job well?
Communication and interpersonal
Strategic thinking
Tenacity

What do you love most about your career?
That I am making a significant impact upon the lives of others.

Do you have any warnings?
Be prepared for very hard work that is challenging at first, but rewarding in the long-run.

If you could try a different career on for a year, what would it be?
Journalist.