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Workshops for
Non-Profit Sport Organizations
Practical, engaging learning experiences that strengthen governance, elevate strategic thinking, and build the confidence of the volunteers who lead your sport.
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I'M READY TO BOOK A WORKSHOPProfessional development designed for the volunteers who make sport possible.
Strong governance and strategic thinking don’t happen by accident—they grow when board and committee members have the clarity, confidence, and tools they need to lead well.
Workshops are built around the real challenges volunteer sport leaders face every day. Content is tailored to the realities of nonprofit sport, using examples from across the sector to make concepts clear, relevant, and easy to apply. Participants leave with practical insights they can use immediately and a stronger sense of alignment around how they want to lead together.
When volunteers understand how to govern effectively, think strategically, and create inclusive sport environments, decision‑making becomes clearer, discussions become more productive, and the work feels energized.
I'm Lara, The Owner and Principal Consultant of Spark Solutions.
I help nonprofit sport organizations strengthen their governance, elevate their strategic thinking, and build the confidence of the volunteers who lead them—so they can move from reacting to leading with clarity and purpose.
My perspective is shaped by a wide range of experiences across the sport system: participating as a recreational and competitive athlete, coaching, officiating, volunteering, and working within both provincial and national sport organizations.
Community has always been at the heart of my work, and I value creating spaces where information is shared openly and everyone feels welcome to contribute.
I bring that same commitment to dialogue, inclusion, and practical learning into every workshop I facilitate.
How Workshops Are Delivered
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Organizations can choose the format and delivery method that best fits their needs:
- 60-minute webinar - $1,000.00
A focused presentation with time for questions. - 2-hour workshop - $2,000.00
A 60-minute presentation with questions, followed by a 60-minute facilitated discussion on how to apply the concepts within your organization.
Organizations can choose from virtual or in-person delivery. Each format is designed to be engaging, practical, and accessible for volunteer-led organizations.
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“It was fun, thought provoking, and the time flew by. Lara has an incredible talent for fostering a comfortable environment where people can express as much (or as little) as they want. Thank you Lara and Spark Solutions!”
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— Megan Jones, Program Manager, Saskatchewan Association of Recreation Professionals
“We had the pleasure of working with Spark Solutions and we were very pleased with the results. Lara was professional, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to work with. She took the time to understand our needs and provided valuable online education and support to our stakeholders, adding value to our programs.”
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— Gabriel Assis, Chief Executive Officer, BC Soccer
WORKSHOP TOPICS
Clear Roles, Great Governance: Responsibilities of a High‑Performing Board
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A practical session that clarifies what effective boards do—and don’t do. Participants learn the core responsibilities of a governance board, and how clear roles strengthen decision‑making, accountability, and organizational impact. This workshop is ideal for boards seeking alignment, confidence, and a shared understanding of their purpose.
Strategic Thinking for Every Board: Practical Practices for Modern Boards
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Strategic thinking is more than a plan—it’s a mindset and a habit. This workshop helps boards understand what strategic thinking looks like in practice and how to embed it into agendas, discussions, and decisions. Participants learn simple, repeatable practices that elevate conversations, reduce operational drift, and strengthen long‑term direction.
 Changing the Game: Better Sport for Women and Girls
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A session focused on creating sport environments where women and girls can thrive. Participants explore the barriers that limit participation and leadership, the practices that support safe and inclusive experiences, and the organizational changes that make a meaningful difference. This workshop is designed for organizations committed to equity, retention, and better sport for all.
Here are the top questions we receive about our workshops:
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How many people can participate?
We have no strict limit. We simply need to know estimated numbers in advance in order to thoughtfully plan for delivery.
What is your facilitation style?
Sessions are clear, practical, and purpose‑driven, with a focus on helping participants understand concepts they can apply immediately. We draw on examples from our personal and professional experiences, as well as insights from organizations across the sport and nonprofit sector, to make the content relatable and grounded in real practice. We aim to bring a light, approachable tone with a bit of humour to keep the session engaging. During facilitated discussions, we work to ensure that every participant feels welcome to contribute, creating a space where diverse perspectives strengthen the conversation.
Do you provide materials after the workshop?
Participants receive a concise summary sheet that captures the key concepts, tools, and takeaways from the session. This resource is designed to support ongoing learning and application. The slide deck itself is not shared for either the webinar or workshop format; instead, the focus is on live delivery, questions, and (where applicable) facilitated discussion, supported by the written summary.Â
Are we able to record the workshop?
Yes, you're welcome to record the session for your non‑commercial use. Many organizations choose to do this so participants who can’t attend live can watch later, or so the group can revisit key concepts during onboarding or future discussions.
How far in advance should we book?
Most organizations book 4-10 weeks ahead, but shorter timelines may be possible.
Can the workshops be customized to our organization?
Light customization (examples, emphasis areas) can be included. Deeper customization (adjusting content, integrating examples from your organization) can be added for an additional fee. Reach out to discuss.
Are these workshops appropriate for our operational board?
Yes, workshop information is relevant to both operational and governance boards.
Ready to Strengthen Your Organization?
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If you’re looking to enhance the knowledge of your sport volunteers, strengthen governance practices, gain practical tools you can implement right away, and spark meaningful discussion among your leaders, we’re ready to work with you.
