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Professional Development News

Chapter Boards Lead by Example in Achieving 100 Percent Chapter Board Participation
Thirty-three AFP chapters have led by example and achieved 100 percent board participation in the 2012 Every Member Campaign (EMC). These chapter boards serve as motivation and inspiration to chapter members to make their gifts to the EMC.

Faculty Training Academy: Master Trainers
AFP's Faculty Training Academy graduates are experienced instructors who have attended two advanced training programs in teaching and mentoring.

2012 AFP Compensation & Benefits Report
AFP's Compensation & Benefits Study provides valuable data on the characteristics of individual fundraisers – backgrounds, experience, and responsibilities – and paints a picture of the current state of the profession.

Creating Volunteer Opportunities—The New Role of Fundraisers
(May 1, 2012) Think your organization’s volunteers and its development office are two separate worlds? Think again, says Emily Davis, author of Fundraising and the Next Generation, new from the AFP Fund Development Series.

Top Philanthropy Research Prize Awarded to Albany Consultant Robert M. Penna, Ph.D.
The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) has awarded its top research award, The Skystone Partners Prize for Research on Fundraising and Philanthropy, to Robert M. Penna, Ph.D., of Albany, N.Y., for his pioneering book, The Nonprofit Outcomes Toolbox: A Complete Guide to Program Effectiveness, Performance Measurement, and Results, published by John Wiley & Sons.

Great Memories, Fresh Ideas from AFP in Vancouver
Curious what happened at the AFP International Conference earlier this month? Take a peek at what participants learned and discovered—in their own words.

Skystone Partners Prize for Research on Fundraising and Philanthropy
Each year, the AFP Research Council awards the Skystone Partners Prize for Research to the author of a book that contributes substantially to the knowledge and understanding of fundraising or philanthropy.

About AFP
The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) represents more than 30,000 members in 230 chapters throughout the world, working to advance philanthropy through advocacy, research, education and certification programs. The association fosters development and growth of fundraising professionals and promotes high ethical standards in the fundraising profession.

About AFP
The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) represents more than 30,000 members in 225 chapters throughout the world, working to advance philanthropy through advocacy, research, education and certification programs. The association fosters development and growth of fundraising professionals and promotes high ethical standards in the fundraising profession.

New Survey Looks at How Charities Are (And Are Not) Connecting With Donors in Canada
(April 3, 2012) Donors may surprise charities in some of the priorities they emphasize in their interactions with charities, according to What Canadian Donors Want, a new survey conducted by AFP of more than 1,000 donors across the country.

Explore AFP’s Special Job Seekers Toolkit for Fundraisers (Updated May 25, 2011)
The AFP Job Seekers toolkit focuses on finding the right job and features advice and services to help members carry out a successful job search and land on your feet in a rewarding new position.

Managing Young Fundraisers
(March 27, 2012) In order to resource our industry with enough qualified and experienced professionals to meet the demand, senior practitioners need to applaud, not discourage, their young fundraisers’ desire to climb the ladder quickly.

Building Board Buy-In for Fundraising
(March 20, 2011) The first rule of board leadership in fundraising is to make sure that all board members understand and accept the concept that resource development is the responsibility of each and every member of the board, says Julia Ingraham Walker in the new book from AFP/Wiley, Nonprofit Essentials: A Fundraising Guide for Nonprofit Board Members.

Catching up with... AFP Golden Horseshoe Chapter
A chat with Julie Wirtanen, CFRE and AFP Golden Horseshoe Chapter President.

AFP Chapter Events - March 2012 AFP eWire Special Canada Edition


A Few Words on…Student Recruitment


I’m an AFP Member! Say It Loud, Say It Proud
Okay, maybe it’s been a while, but do you remember your excitement and pride when you first joined The Association of Fundraising Professionals? This was your opportunity to proclaim your professionalism (and choice of profession) and advertise your integrity by aligning yourself with like-minded practitioners of ethical fundraising.

Canada is a Ten Star Country!
(Mar. 20, 2012) The Ten Star Award honours those chapters who have accomplished many of the key objectives outlined in the AFP Strategic Plan. The award encourages chapters to perform specific activities that increases professionalism in fundraising, while promoting public awareness of philanthropy.

Your Gift is Making a Difference
Do you work in the nonprofit sector because of the glamour, a fancy office and summers in France? If only! Although the path for each person is different, the reason you do what you do is because you believe in the value of philanthropy and the positive impact of giving back to your community and society.

Plenty of “Can-Con” at the 2012 International Conference
(Mar. 20, 2012) It could be argued that you go to a conference to learn things outside of your normal frame of reference, but that approach would be short-changing all the terrific things we Canadians can (and do!) learn from each other.

Canadians Agree That Charities are Important to Society
(Mar. 20, 2012) In November, 2011, Ipsos Reid, on behalf of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) conducted a Canadian survey on “What Donors Want.” The good news for the sector is that most Canadians consider charities to be important in filling a gap of needs not being addressed by the public and private sector. However, a challenge remains in communicating and educating donors about fund allocation. Many donors fail to make the connection between investing in administration and effective operations, despite having high standards for how charities operate.

Preparing Your Boss and Volunteers for Success in Fundraising
(March 13, 2012) One easy way to make a staff or volunteer leader more comfortable, no matter what type of personality you may be managing, is better preparing them for success in fundraising-related communications.

Ask, Don’t Tell: Three Types of Power Questions That Build Donors for Life
(March 6, 2012) To succeed in today’s challenging giving climate, you’ve got to make a personal connection with donors, tap into their passions, and inspire them to act. It’s all about asking the right questions—and listening closely to the answers.

Post-Recession Charitable Pledges to Hospitals Slow, Jeopardizing Future Fundraising Efforts
(March 6, 2012) As the United States and Canada emerged from the Great Recession, charitable pledges to nonprofit health care organizations slowed in fiscal year 2010, jeopardizing the ability of health care systems in both countries to generate philanthropic funding necessary to meet their long-term, construction, equipment and patient needs.

Foundation Development Chairs
Materials and forms for Foundation Development Chairs.

Social Media - You’re Not Herding Sheep, You’re Tending a Garden
(Feb. 28, 2012) Traditional marketing primarily served “us.” Social media marketing requires that we serve our community first. Jim Anderson at GoalBusters Consulting shares key differences between social media and traditional marketing. He and Alice Ferris, ACFRE, will explore this topic in depth at AFP’s TechKnow Conference this June in Orlando, Fla.

Member Motion/Accolades: Winter 2011-2012
AFP members are always accepting new challenges and exciting career opportunities, as well as receiving accolades for their commitment and service. Here are some job announcements, appointments, promotions and recognitions for winter 2011-2012.

AFP Fact Sheet
The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) is the professional association of individuals and organizations that generate philanthropic support for a wide variety of charitable institutions. Founded in 1960, AFP advances philanthropy through its more than 30,000 members in 206 chapters throughout the world.

How to Apply for AFP Research Grants
The AFP Research Council offers grants for up to $10,000 annually to individuals who wish to undertake research projects that enrich the profession's knowledge of philanthropic fundraising and improve its practice.

Kaleidoscope


History of the Association of Fundraising Professionals
In 1960, three fundraisers met for lunch in New York City to discuss an idea they had been toying with for a while: creating an association for charitable fundraisers. Therein lies the beginning of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

About AFP's Discussion Groups
Get information on developments in your local area and discuss important fundraising issues -- all without leaving your desk. AFP's email lists send timely and useful information straight to your in-box.

Conferences
The AFP International Conference is held each spring and brings more than 4,000 fundraising professionals together to discuss, teach, and learn about new development issues. It offers more than 150 educational sessions designed to serve the development needs of participants from entry level to highly experienced. The Conference exhibit hall features over 300 vendors.

Tips from Members: The Planning Study Process, Part Two
(Feb. 9, 2004) - When considering a capital or endowment campaign, organizations need to consider conducting both an internal assessment of the organization's readiness and an external assessment of the willingness and ability of the organization's constituency to support the campaign. Last week, I discussed the internal assessment aspect; this week I am focusing on the external assessment.

Tips from Members: The Planning Study Process
When considering a capital or endowment campaign, a major undertaking for most organizations, there are two things that need to be done in order to determine the likely success of a campaign: an internal assessment of the organization's readiness and an external assessment of the willingness and ability of the organization's constituency to support the campaign. This week, I will focus on the internal assessment aspect. Next week, I will discuss the external aspect.

Charitable Fundraising Salaries Increase Across North America
(May 12, 2008) Salaries for charitable fundraisers in the United States and Canada increased from 2006 to 2007, according to the latest Association of Fundraising Professionals’ (AFP) Compensation and Benefits Study.

Few Donors Consult Charity Watchdog Organizations
(Jan. 3, 2012) Only about one in five donors report using charity watchdog websites to inform their giving decisions, according to a recent study.

Women Drive Philanthropic Decisions in Wealthy Households, but Nonprofits Must Work for Their Trust, Study Finds
(Dec. 20, 2011) In nearly 90 percent of high net worth households, women are either the sole decision maker or an equal partner in decisions about charitable giving, according to the Bank of America Merrill Lynch 2011 Study of High Net Worth Women’s Philanthropy.

About the Advanced Certified Fundraising Executive (ACFRE) Program
The ACFRE credential signifies mastery of professional standards in leadership, management and ethics, at an advanced level of practice.

AFP's Faculty Training Academy
AFP's Faculty Training Academy prepares instructors to take leadership positions in AFP's professional education programs and to serve as peer mentors for other AFP course instructors.

Making Strides With Your Support
As we head into the end of 2011 and welcome 2012, the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy – Canada would like to take this opportunity to thank all the donors who contributed during the year. We had a terrific year in both our Every Member Campaign as well as in our major gifts initiative.

What Should Fundraising Cost?
(Dec. 13, 2011) While most in the nonprofit sector are aware that fundraising is necessary, much of the public at large sees it as a distraction from a charity’s main purpose, rather than a function requiring investment.

Canada’s Senate Passes NPD Legislation
(Dec. 13, 2011) On Dec. 1, 2011, Canada’s Senate passed Bill S-201 that would permanently recognize National Philanthropy Day every Nov. 15.

AFP Foundation – Canada Announces 2012 Board
The AFP Foundation for Philanthropy—Canada announces its roster of 2012 officers and directors to be led by chair Pati Greenwood, CFRE.

Growing Philanthropy: New Audiences, New Channels (Part 3 of 3)
Part three in our series on Growing Philanthropy highlights some of the most promising new avenues for increasing giving.

Action University
Action University is a new, online professional development tool for AFP members. In each weekly lesson, Action University takes a best-selling business book and summarizes it into a 10-15 minute video. Each video is accompanied by a workbook, a PDF summary, and in most cases a 45 minute webinar with the author where participants get to ask specific questions.

Member Motion/Accolades: Fall 2011
AFP members are always accepting new challenges and exciting career opportunities, as well as receiving accolades for their commitment and service. Here are some job announcements, appointments, promotions and recognitions for fall 2011.

AFP Announces International Awards for Philanthropy Honorees
An incredibly generous businessman who resides in Arizona, but made his fortune in South Dakota; an inspiring foundation from Iowa; a powerhouse fundraising couple from Toronto; a fundraising legend in Los Angeles; a heroic young woman from Victoria; and a dynamic brother-sister team in El Paso are all recipients of the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ (AFP) international 2012 Awards for Philanthropy.

AFP Foundation Announces 2012 Officers and Directors
The AFP Foundation for Philanthropy announces its roster of 2012 officers and directors to be led by chair Gary L. Good, CFRE.

Growing Philanthropy: Building Greater Trust in the Sector (Part 2 of 3)
Trust and confidence in the nonprofit sector is paramount. We need to empower the public to have high expectations of charities, and ensure that each organization reports accurate and meaningful information.

PUBLIC POLICY UPDATE - WINTER 2011
The Winter 2011 Public Policy Update contains a CALL TO ACTION for members to write to their Members of Congress to preserve the charitable deduction. In addition, there is an update on the nonprofit postage rate. The update also covers the following Canadian issues—Ottawa’s review of how it finances charitable organizations, the reintroduced National Philanthropy Day® legislation and a soon-to-be released revised Canada Revenue Agency fundraising guidance.

Growing Philanthropy: Moving From Donors to Partners (Part 1 of 3)
(Nov. 8, 2011) What if donors were capable of so much more, but it was up to nonprofits themselves to see their potential? What if people were seen as more than merely donors? Offered here is a snapshot of an idyllic scenario--entirely achievable--wherein philanthropy grows to be a larger part of people’s finances, and their lives.

2011 Class Boosts Omega Circle Over 200 Members
The AFP Foundation for Philanthropy and the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy – Canada honored 28 members of the 2011 Omega Circle Class at an induction dinner held in Montreal, Canada, during the Leadership Academy in mid-October.

AFP Foundation for Philanthropy
Learn about the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy

Nashville Fundraiser Wins International Award for Service to the Profession
The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) has bestowed the Barbara Marion Award for Outstanding Leadership to AFP, the association’s highest volunteer and leadership recognition, to Susan Earl Hosbach, CFRE, of Nashville, Tenn.

The Feasibility Study: It’s All About the Interview
(Nov. 1, 2011) A conversation with an important donor can uncover much more than just his or her interest in supporting a capital campaign. Here are some tips on making the most of an interview.

AFP/Action University's Digital Marketing Webinar Series
Action University is a new, online professional development tool for AFP members. In each weekly lesson, Action University takes a best-selling business book and summarizes it into a 10-15 minute video. Each video is accompanied by a workbook, a pdf summary, and in most cases a 45 minute webinar with the author where participants get to ask specific questions.

Action Alert: Charitable Deduction
(Sept. 27, 2011) President Obama recently announced his intention to pay for his jobs bill by capping itemized deductions, including charitable deductions for high income taxpayers.

AFP and New York Chapter to Sponsor 2nd Annual Mobile Giving Forum
The Mobile Giving Foundation will be hosting the second annual Mobile Giving Forum on Oct. 27 at the French Institute Alliance Française in New York City.

AFP Launches Tool to Help Fundraisers Assess, Strengthen Ethical Performance
AFP is proud to launch an online survey tool that allows fundraisers to assess their individual ethical performance and strengthen ethical practice.

Member Resources


Civic Engagement: By the Numbers
(Sept. 20, 2011) People who are more socially connected are also more likely to engage in service activities, including volunteering and group involvement. Here is a look at the levels of civic engagement in the U.S. between 2008 and 2010.

Identify Your Funding Model That Makes the Most Impact
(Sept. 6, 2011) Following up on their previous work about funding models, The Bridgespan Group has released a new guide for nonprofit leaders aimed at helping organizations identify strategies for identifying, creating and implementing long-range funding models.

Orienting and Training Volunteers for Success
(Aug. 16, 2011) The secret to having effective and enthusiastic volunteers is really no secret at all. It’s simply a matter of training. Give volunteers a close look at your organization’s mission and operations and goals. Give them clear expectations. The more they know, the better they will be.

Action University
Action University is a new, online professional development tool for AFP members. In each weekly lesson, Action University takes a best-selling business book and summarizes it into a 10-15 minute video. Each video is accompanied by a workbook, a pdf summary, and in most cases a 45 minute webinar with the author where participants get to ask specific questions.

Four Fundraisers Earn Highest Credential From AFP
Four fundraisers have earned the highest professional certification, the Advanced Certified Fundraising Executive (ACFRE), from AFP.

AFP Think Tanks on Fundraising Research: Linking Research to Practice
AFP has co-sponsored a series of Think Tanks to apply research to the practice of fundraising, promote practitioner-researcher interaction, and encourage dissemination of research findings.

Advancing in Your Fundraising Career
(Aug. 2, 2011) Whether you are new to fundraising or you have been in the profession for years, here are some tips on moving forward in your career.

AFP Welcomes Three New Chapters
AFP is pleased to announce the creation of three new chapters, consisting of one collegiate chapter and two professional chapters.

Give to the AFP Diverse Communities Scholarship Fund
The AFP Foundation for Philanthropy in coordination with the AFP Diversity Committee is pleased to announce a new Diversity Scholarship Fund for members of diverse communities to attend the AFP International Conference on Fundraising.

Good Signs in Overall Giving
(July 19, 2011) There’s some good news about giving, as a new report shows nonprofit revenue has grown for ten consecutive months from August 2010 to May 2011.

AFP Membership Benefits
You'll receive these membership benefits and more when you join AFP!

Marketing Tools


Biography: Andrea McManus, CFRE
Introducing Andrea McManus, the new chair of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP).

Before You Leap: Weighing the Benefits of Grants
(June 14, 2011) Applying for a grant might seem like a great way to fill a gap in your organization’s funding. In reality, however, grants are usually part of a larger plan over the long term. Here is some helpful perspective on the world of grants that might save your organization valuable time and resources.

AFP at a Glance


Building the Better Fundraiser: From Technician to Leader
(June 7, 2011) In fundraising there is a lot to learn, techniques and skills to master, but is knowing the mechanics of fundraising enough? What if the train rolls off the track and you need to adapt? As a fundraiser, you need to have staff members who are more than technicians—they need to be strategic, and they need to be leaders.

Houston Chapter of AFP Leaves Legacy With Nine Planned Gifts to AFP Foundation
Nine members of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Houston Chapter have joined the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy’s Omega Circle by making planned gifts of $5,000 or more.

Enough About Me!
(May 31, 2011) How do you strike the balance between speaking passionately about your organization and truly listening to a donor in a one-on-one conversation? Here are some tips on having better self-control and really listening.

AFP’s Toolkit for New Fundraisers
This web page offers a broad overview of fundraising and puts the essential tools for getting started right at your fingertips. Whether you are new to the profession or just want to brush up on the basics, use this resource to get full benefit from AFP and start on the right foot in your new career!

A Survival Kit for Fundraising in Challenging Times (Updated May 25, 2011)
A tumultuous economy can present unique challenges for nonprofit fundraising. Looking for ways to cope? AFP has compiled a toolkit of resources to advise and guide member fundraisers in tough economic times.

Six Things I Wish I Had Known at the Beginning of My Fundraising Career
(May 24, 2011) Here are six basic fundraising principles that I believe are fundamental to philanthropic giving and fund development.

Ethics Education Chairs
Ethics Chairs

Resource Center Toolkits and Resources
Resource Center Toolkits and Resources

Peer to Peer Fundraising Deserves Top Level Focus and Resources
(May 17, 2011) Peer-to-peer communication is a promising avenue for raising funds, as people are increasingly limiting their attention to messages from “real friends” and business colleagues they deem to be of import.

2011 AFP Compensation & Benefits Report
AFP's Compensation & Benefits Study provides valuable data on the characteristics of individual fundraisers – backgrounds, experience, and responsibilities – and paints a picture of the current state of the profession.

Angela Seaworth Earns Highest Professional Fundraising Credential From AFP
AFP has awarded its highest professional certification, the Advanced Certified Fundraising Executive (ACFRE), to Angela Seaworth of Houston, Texas.

AFP Foundation for Philanthropy Gets Fundraising Boost From RuffaloCODY
The AFP Foundation for Philanthropy is pleased to announce that it will conduct an extensive donor outreach calling program in 2011 with help from a gift by RuffaloCODY, a fundraising, software and enrollment services firm headquartered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Oregon State Government Considers Administrative Cost Ratios for Charitable Organizations
(May 10, 2011) The Oregon state legislature is considering a bill that would establish administrative cost ratios for nonprofits. If passed, Oregon will be the first state to establish such ratios.

Results of Canada’s 41st Federal Election Offers Charitable Sector Opportunity to Re-engage Parliament
(May 10, 2011) AFP members now have a great opportunity to communicate with lawmakers in Canada about important legislation affecting nonprofits as a result of the May 2 federal election.

AFP Foundation for Philanthropy - Canada: Annual Fund Case for Support
Learn more about the AFP Canadian Foundation's broad range of initiatives that help you and thousands of other fundraising professionals enhance skills and knowledge.

Building a Great Fundraising Operations Team
(May 3, 2011) What are the characteristics to look for in a fundraising operations staff member-–someone who will quickly become a valued asset to your team, however they are involved in the fundraising process? Author Christopher Cannon, CFRE, lays out ten top attributes to look for, and more, from his new book, An Executive’s Guide to Fundraising Operations.

PUBLIC POLICY UPDATE - SPRING 2011
The Spring 2011 Public Policy Update contains information about the Obama Administration’s proposal to cap itemized deductions (including charitable deductions) to pay for a 3-year Alternative Minimum Tax fix. The update also covers New York ethics education legislation affecting fundraisers and bills in Oregon and North Carolina that penalize charities that exceed certain administrative cost ratios. There also is an update on Canadian legislative issues in the wake of the dissolution of Parliament. AFP Canadian members are encouraged to meet with local Members of Parliament, Senators, candidates and/or their staffs at this time, and talking points are provided.

Messages That Motivate: The Tailored Approach
(April 26, 2011) Are you still using a one-size-fits-all approach to communicate with potential supporters, volunteers and donors? While casting a wide net can work, you will likely lure more people to action using targeted messages.

Leadership Society Inducts New Members
Leadership Society Chair Philip G. Schumacher, ACFRE, welcomed 12 new members into the Leadership Society at a formal induction ceremony during the AFP International Conference on Fundraising last month in Chicago.

Top International Fundraising Honor Awarded to SAIT Polytechnic
The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) has bestowed its highest fundraising honor, the Campbell & Company Award for Excellence in Fundraising, Large Category (six or more individuals in the fundraising department) to SAIT Polytechnic, located in Calgary, Alberta.

Update on Canadian Government Relations
(April 12, 2011) I am pleased to provide a brief update on behalf of your very active and engaged Government Relations Committee. Working closely with Jason Lee at AFP International, committee members have been focused on activities which impact members and philanthropy in general. The committee has crafted terms of reference to help define the roles of committee members and to codify the committee's responsibilities and efforts.

Salary Cap Removed From Bill C-470, But More Work Still Ahead for the Sector
(Dec. 21, 2010) The sponsor of Bill C-470 has agreed to remove a provision that would have capped compensation for nonprofit employees.

Five Common Myths About Planned Giving
(April 19, 2011) A number of myths surround the professional practice of philanthropic planning, which can lead organizations to take no action or to take the wrong action where planned giving is concerned. Michael Rosen, CFRE, offers rebuttals to these myths in this article from his book Donor-Centered Planned Gift Marketing, winner of this year’s Skystone Partners Prize for Research on Fundraising and Philanthropy presented by AFP.

AFP Foundation for Philanthropy – Canada: Moving Fundraising and Philanthropy Forward With Your Help
Find out how you can contribute to the strength of the fundraising profession and the philanthropic sector in Canada.

A Letter From AFP Canadian Council Chair Vivian Smith, CFRE
Learn about the work of AFP’s Canadian Council in supporting the efforts of AFP in Canada.

Creating a Healthy Prospect Pipeline
(April 12, 2011) In fundraising, your prospect pipeline is your lifeblood. Find out how to ensure a healthy flow of prospects at all stages of your development program.

Fundraisers Give Back at International Conference in Chicago
Fundraisers lent a helping hand to the community at the 48th AFP International Conference on Fundraising in Chicago, March 20-22.

Outstanding Youth Honored with AFP International Philanthropy Award
Andrew Fazackerley and Edward Goodfellow of Tichborne, Ontario, and the founders of the Minnesota Student Energy Project (MNSEP) in Rochester, Minnesota, are the recipients of the 2011 Changing Our World/Simms Award for Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy, presented by AFP.

Biography: Andrew Watt, FlnstF, President and CEO, AFP
Meet Andrew Watt, FlnstF, President and Chief Executive Officer Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Arkansas Fundraiser Sue Williamson Named 2011 CCS Outstanding Fundraising Professional
(April 5, 2011) Sue S. Williamson, CFRE, senior development director at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) in Little Rock, Ark., is the recipient of the 2011 CCS Award for Outstanding Fundraising Professional presented by AFP.

What Psychology Can Teach Us About Major Donor Fundraising
(April 5, 2011) Before they will even consider making a gift, donors often have specific expectations that have to be met. Do you have sound financial reserves? Do you have a track record of past success? According to psychologists, no matter how good you are at making the ask, you will hear a quick “no” unless you address these concerns.

AFP Introduces Wise Giving Website to Help Public With Philanthropy
(Arlington, VA) The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) today unveiled its new wise giving website, Change the World With a Giving—and Wise—Heart (http://www.afpnet.org/GivingHeart) designed to help donors think proactively about philanthropy and how they want to improve their communities through giving and volunteering.

Paulette Maehara Receives Prestigious Rosso Medal
Paulette V. Maehara, CFRE, CAE, president and CEO of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), was awarded the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University's highest honor, the Henry A. Rosso Medal for Lifetime Achievement in Ethical Fund Raising, on Saturday, March 19.

What Fundraisers Can Learn From Salespeople
(March 15, 2011) You are a nonprofit fundraiser, so for-profit sales and marketing techniques have little to do with your job, right? Not so, says Jeff Mendola, an AFP member who comes from a career in for-profit sales and marketing. He uses elements of both in his role as fundraiser, and he thinks you should too.

Andrew Watt Named Chief Executive of the Association of Fundraising Professionals
ARLINGTON, VA. -- The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), the world's leading association for individuals and organizations that support charitable institutions, today announced that it has named Andrew Watt as its president and chief executive officer, effective March 23.

Helping Your Board Connect and Communicate
(March 8, 2011) Having board members who can speak passionately about your organization is crucial, but it doesn’t happen automatically. Here’s how to turn a passionate board into a group of passionate spokespeople for your organization.

The Art of the Discovery Call
(March 1, 2011) It is the most dreaded function for many development officers—-picking up the phone and striking up conversation with someone they’ve never met. Here are some tips for breaking the ice.

An Attendee’s Guide to the AFP International Conference on Fundraising
So you’ve registered for the 48th AFP International Conference on Fundraising. First of all, thank you! Here is a quick glance at some changes and features of the conference that will make this conference one to remember.

Nice to Meet You! The Value of Cultivation Events
(Feb. 22, 2011) Imagine an event where you don’t sell tickets and you don’t ask for donations--you simply give your top-tier prospects an experience to remember. It’s exclusive, it’s intriguing, and done right it’s a great way to breathe life into your donor list.

Chapter Materials and Resources


Putting the Fun into Your Annual Fund
(Feb. 15, 2011) If you are bored by your annual fund then chances are your donors and constituents are too. In this article Jill Pranger, ACFRE, discusses how to have a fresh, fun and creative annual giving program.

The Think-Big Board
(Feb. 8, 2011) Being a small nonprofit does not mean that you have to think small in terms of your fundraising, says Sean Hammerle, CFRE, one of many great presenters lined up for the 48th AFP International Conference on Fundraising in Chicago. He offers some ways to help you and your board think big.

Use of Donated Funds Most Common Ethical Challenge for Fundraisers
Ensuring that charities use funds in a manner consistent with their mission and the intention of their donors is the most common ethical challenge that fundraisers face, according to a new website poll by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP).

Honor Our Retiring President and CEO!
Paulette V. Maehara, CFRE, CAE, AFP’s president and CEO, is retiring in March after nearly 13 years with the association. AFP has set up a tribute page for members to say thanks to Paulette and share their photos and memories.

The Power of the Volunteer
(Jan. 25, 2011) Working with volunteers is not easy. With the right support, however, volunteers can do more than any number of staff can do--it’s just a matter of harnessing their potential.

Fundraising 101: Sticking to the Plan
(Jan. 18, 2011) Sometimes the only thing separating a speeding fundraising train from a derailed mess is a plan. Here are some tips on laying solid tracks now so that you successfully reach the station in December.

22 Ideas to Make 2011 Your Best Fundraising Year Yet!
(Jan. 12, 2011) Are you ready for 2011? What will it take for you to make it the perfect year? Here are some ideas to help you simplify your fundraising approach, focus on what’s most important, and most of all, have more fun!

Advancing Philanthropy: Subscriptions and Reprint Requests
AFP members automatically receive our magazine, Advancing Philanthropy. But subscriptions also may be obtained by nonmembers and institutions. Here's how.

About the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) Program
The Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential provides you with a recognizable demonstration of your personal and professional achievement and commitment.

What is Branding, Anyway?
(Jan. 4, 2011) Simply putting on a doctor’s uniform does not make someone a doctor. Yet many organizations’ branding efforts do just that—-focus solely on looks. In a new book from the AFP Fund Development Series, authors explain that a breakthrough brand actually helps clarify the nonprofit’s very purpose.

AFP Foundation in Canada Announces 2011 Officers and Directors
The AFP Foundation for Philanthropy – Canada announces its roster of 2011 officers and directors to be led by chair Pati Greenwood, CFRE.

Code of Ethical Principles and Standards
The foundation of philanthropy is ethical fundraising, and a key mission of AFP is to advance and foster the highest ethical standards through its Code of Ethical Principles and Standards.

2011 Think Tank on Fundraising Research: Regulation, Ethics and Philanthropy: A Sector-Wide Dialogue in the Interest of the Public Good (Feb. 3-4, 2011)


High Hopes for Holiday Giving
(Nov. 30, 2010) Seventy-four percent (74 percent) of adults plan to give this holiday season. With average total gifts of $281, the anticipated amount raised by nonprofit organizations will be more than $48 billion.

Charities Seeing Slight Recovery in Giving, But Not Enough to Keep Up With Demand or Budget Cuts
(Nov. 29, 2010) Nonprofit organizations have seen a slight turnaround in giving so far this year that mirrors the slow economic recovery, a new survey from the Nonprofit Research Collaborative (NRC) finds. But the small rebound hasn’t been enough to help many nonprofits that are grappling with staff and service cuts even as demand for their services has increased.

Wealthy Gave in Large Number in Downturn, Though Gift Size Decreased
(Nov. 23, 2010) According to a recent study by Bank of America and Merrill Lynch, high net worth households in the U.S. continued to support charitable organizations in 2009 at levels that were remarkably consistent with those seen in 2005 and 2007. However, overall average gift amounts were lower in 2009 compared to 2007.

National Philanthropy Day® More Important Than Ever
More than 50,000 people will celebrate National Philanthropy Day® (NPD) this year. Officially celebrated on Nov. 15, people around the globe are coming together to recognize the extraordinary accomplishments that philanthropy—-and those involved in the philanthropic process—-have made to the world.

AFP Foundation Announces 2011 Officers and Directors
The AFP Foundation for Philanthropy announces its roster of 2011 officers and directors to be led by chair Gary L. Good, CFRE.

AFP Member Publications
Members can access all AFP publications, including Advancing Philanthropy, Government Relations Updates, Career Profiles, Salary Surveys, and much more!

Online Membership Tool Kit
Online Membership Tool Kit

Chapter Resources for Board Members
Chapter Resources for Board Members

Author Q&A: Jocelyne Daw, Lead Author of Breakthrough Nonprofit Branding
(Nov. 9, 2010) This week we feature an AFP Fund Development Series Author Q&A with Jocelyne Daw, lead author of Breakthrough Nonprofit Branding: Seven Principles to Power Extraordinary Results, published in 2010 by Wiley.

Women Give More to Charity than Men, New Study Shows
(Nov. 2, 2010) Women at virtually every income level are more likely to give to charity and to give more money on average than their male counterparts, after controlling for education, income and other factors that influence giving, new research finds.

Resource Center Links


2010 AFP Compensation & Benefits Report
AFP's Compensation & Benefits Study provides valuable data on the characteristics of individual fundraisers – backgrounds, experience, and responsibilities – and paints a picture of the current state of the profession.

Weighing the Online Donation Option
(Oct. 12, 2010) While a large majority of donations are still made by check (79 percent), those who do donate by bankcard are very satisfied, and are loyal donors, according to new research from Visa conducted in partnership in AFP.

Media Tips: Getting Your Story to the Press
(Oct. 12, 2010) Every nonprofit has a story to tell. But simply calling up a reporter out of the blue with your coverage demands is not likely to bear fruit. Here are some tips on cultivating a member of the media the way you would a donor … by building trust and being a helpful resource.

AFP Fund Development Series
The AFP Fund Development Series is intended to provide fund development professionals and volunteers, including board members (and others interested in the nonprofit sector), with top-quality publications that help advance philanthropy as voluntary action for the public good. The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) and Wiley each bring to this innovative collaboration unique and important resources that result in a whole greater than the sum of its parts.

Fundraising 101: Growing Donor Passion
(Oct. 5, 2010) Harnessing a donor’s passion is key to ensuring a lasting and fruitful relationship. Here are some good tips on cultivating major donors for your annual campaign from fundraising veteran Erik J. Daubert, MBA, ACFRE.

Most Fundraisers Face Few Ethical Situations
Four out of five charitable fundraisers encounter ethical challenges, situations or dilemmas once a month or less, according to Summer 2010 website survey by the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

The Top 10 Mistakes in Fundraising Campaigns
(Sept. 28, 2010) Is your fundraising campaign fizzling? Whether you are stalled or just moving slower than you would like, there are some common mistakes that you can diagnose now before your campaign sputters to a stop.

Financial Communication for Fundraisers Webinar
A meaningful knowledge of your organization's financial story will open doors and change the way you communicate with donors, colleagues and stakeholders. Financial literacy - and the powerful communication it inspires - is available in a few hours with the help of this Color Accounting webinar.

From the Desk of AFP Foundation for Philanthropy – Canada Chair Shauna Klein, MA
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the 553 Canadian members who have supported the 2010 Every Member Campaigns (EMC). This year’s campaign is off to a stellar start, with almost $89,200 raised against the national goal of $106,000 (that’s 84 percent!) as of Aug. 31.

Focus on Impact, Not Transactions, for Better Donation Pages
(Sept. 7, 2010) A donation page offers the perfect opportunity for sharing the story of need, impact of gifts, profiles of donors and more. However, one that focuses solely on the transaction will likely fall flat. Find out some of the key factors to making your donation page come alive.

Adding Science to the Art of Fundraising: The Power of Using Data in Fundraising Strategy
(Aug. 31, 2010) Philanthropy, fundraising and higher education scholar Noah Drezner, Ph.D., discusses the value of collecting data about your prospects and donors and using that data to raise funds more effectively and efficiently.

FAQ: Fundraising salaries
Where can I find information on salaries?

Important Reminders


PUBLIC POLICY UPDATE - SUMMER 2010


New AFP Collegiate Chapter Aims to Spread Message of Philanthropy
AFP has chartered a new collegiate chapter at Flagler College in Saint Augustine, Fla. Sponsored by the AFP FL, First Coast Chapter, the new chapter will help spread awareness of charitable giving on campus and cultivate young fundraisers.

Collegiate Chapter Program
The AFP Collegiate Chapter program was created in order to educate undergraduate and graduate students about fundraising as a career path and to educate them about philanthropy in general.

Nominate Your Fundraising Program for the Campbell & Company Awards for Excellence in Fundraising
There’s still time to submit a nomination for the Campbell & Company Awards for Excellence in Fundraising. Nominations are due Sept. 15, 2010. One award will be presented in the small and large category and each winning organization will receive $1,500.

Lawmakers Taking Aim at Nonprofit Salaries
(Aug. 3, 2010) Federal and local governments are contemplating unprecedented restraints on nonprofit compensation both in the U.S. and in Canada.

Four Steps to Training Your Colleagues, Board and Supporters as Powerful Messengers
(July 20, 2010) Nonprofit marketing expert Nancy Schwartz offers advice on how to encourage staff and volunteers to spread the word about your organization.

Charles Stephens Excellence in Diversity Award
The Charles R. Stephens Excellence in Diversity Award is named for the 1992-1993 AFP Chair Charles R. Stephens, CFRE, and recognizes his efforts in bringing AFP’s diversity programs to the forefront. This award honors the year’s most outstanding demonstration by AFP chapters of leadership, creativity and initiative in building diversity in membership or programming.

AFP's Book Publishing Program
The AFP Publishing Advisory Committee develops editorial direction, evaluates book proposals, and guides successful proposals through writing, editing, and publication. Learn more about the Committee and how to submit your book idea.

Total U.S. Giving Decreased in 2009
(June 9, 2010) The amount of money donated to charity by individuals, foundations and corporations decreased again in 2009, dropping 3.2 percent, according to the Giving USA Foundation. However, U.S. giving still totaled more than $300 billion.

2009 Household Charitable Giving Down Five Percent from 2008
(May 27, 2010) Individual charitable giving in 2009 amounted to $217.3 billion, a decline of $11.2 billion or 4.9 percent from the estimated $228.5 billion total in 2008, according to the latest report by researchers at the Center on Wealth and Philanthropy at Boston College and published by the Association of Fundraising Professionals. This 5% decline is in addition to the 6 percent decline that the Center calculated for 2008

Dive In! Research Shows Nonprofit Social Media Programs Lack Adequate Investment
(May 25, 2010) New research into social media use by nonprofits shows that the best success has come to nonprofits that invest more staff to the job—and solicit outside advice and training. Organizations with merely their toes in the water are having much less luck.

AFP and ThePort Network Partner to Provide New Social Communications Tools to Fundraisers
The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) announces a partnership with ThePort Network to offer its members and chapters new and powerful social media tools and education.

Fundraising Tips: A Snapshot of Rural Donors
(April 6, 2010) Although people from rural communities are less likely to donate to charity, those that do give donate a higher percentage of their income than urban donors, according to a recent study by the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University.

Your Capital Campaign: Are You Ready to Succeed?
(March 30, 2010) A capital campaign is a marathon, not a sprint. Here are some tips to make sure you are ready to go the distance.

PUBLIC POLICY UPDATE - WINTER 2010


Board Members Want to Lead—Then Give
(March 9, 2010) Board members want to give more than just dollars. They want to give input, guidance and direction. If you don’t let them lead, they won’t want to give.

Atlanta Couple Named Outstanding Philanthropists
(March 2, 2010) Pete and Ada Lee Correll, long-time donors and volunteers who have created a charitable legacy in Atlanta, Ga., have been selected to receive AFP's top philanthropy honor, the Paschal Murray Award for Outstanding Philanthropist.

Martha H. Schumacher Earns Highest Professional Fundraising Credential from AFP
AFP has awarded its highest professional certification, the Advanced Certified Fundraising Executive (ACFRE), to Martha H. Schumacher in Washington, D.C.

Boston College Researchers Design First Model to Produce Quarterly Estimates of Household Giving
(Feb. 2, 2010) Researchers at Boston College's Center on Wealth and Philanthropy found that U.S. household giving declined in 2009 from 2008, but that the forecast is rosier for 2010.

Case for Support
As you know, the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy depends on members, chapters, board members, corporations and other friends to generate the resources to fund AFP strategic initiatives that advance philanthropy through ethical and effective fundraising.

Member Motion/Accolades: Nov. 2009 – Jan. 2010
AFP members are always accepting new challenges and exciting career opportunities, as well as receiving accolades for their commitment and service. Here are some job announcements, appointments, promotions and recognitions for November 2009 – January 2010.

Take Your Fundraising to the Next Level
AFP is offering many of its most popular courses at special conference-only reduced prices at The 47th AFP International Conference on Fundraising in Baltimore, April 11-14, 2010.

TELUS Named Most Outstanding Philanthropic Corporation With Global Award
(Jan. 26, 2010) TELUS has been named the top philanthropic corporation for 2010. TELUS is the first Canadian company to ever receive this global honor.

Philanthropy and Gender: Not Your Mother’s Bake Sale
(Jan. 19, 2010) When it comes to giving money away, numerous studies show there are significant differences between men and women in their philanthropic behavior. Read about women’s philanthropy past and present, and how better to work with female philanthropists.

New President and CEO Named to CFRE International
The CFRE International Board of Directors has announced that Denny Smith, Ph.D., will assume the position of president and chief executive officer beginning Feb. 1, 2010.

Six Types of Wealthy Donors
(Jan. 12, 2010) A new study identifies six types of high net worth donors and explains what motivates them to give.

Career Security
A recent poll of U.S. workers found that the one thing we most want from our employers is job security. While that’s completely understandable in today’s crazy world of work, I’m afraid we’re more likely to get a visit from our fairy godmother.

Things We Wish We Had Known
The positive growth turned in by the American economy in the third quarter of this year suggests that maybe, just maybe this Great Recession is now in our rear view mirror. As it fades away, of course, the tales will begin about what we did during this terrible time. While recounting those legends is surely important, so too is sharing the insights we’ve acquired from our experience.

The Job Market Version of Catch 22
Billions of words have been written about job search tools and tactics in this job market of our discontent. Job board dos and don’ts. Twitter. Facebook. Building a personal brand. Improving your “findability.” It’s all good advice, but none of it will work if your career is sick.

Tell an Effective Story in a Twitter Grant Proposal
(Dec. 22, 2009) Many grant seekers believe that the use of online application forms makes telling an organization’s story a lot harder. In this story from the November/December 2009 digital version of Advancing Philanthropy magazine, get tips for writing successful online submissions and telling a persuasive story.

Some Phonathon Shortcuts Lead to Big Cuts in Productivity
(Dec. 8, 2009) Higher education phonathon veteran, Jason Fisher, senior operations manager and consultant at RuffaloCODY, offers his advice on ways to ensure your calling program is fresh, sharp and effective.

Diversity Events and Opportunities at the AFP International Conference in Baltimore
AFP has several exciting opportunities for you to learn from the perspectives of others and share your thoughts on topics important to you at the 47th AFP International Conference on Fundraising in Baltimore, April 11-14, 2010.

Teach! The AFP Faculty Training Academy and FTA Graduate Summit
AFP is proud to offer the sixth Faculty Training Academy as a pre-conference workshop at the 47th AFP International Conference on Fundraising, April 11- 14, 2010, in Baltimore. We are also excited to introduce the new Faculty Training Academy Graduate Summit!

Top 10 Ways to Boost Online Giving at Year-End
(Dec. 1, 2009) Author and fundraising consultant Gail Perry offers advice to fundraisers on how to ramp up online giving in the final months of the year.

Tricks of the Trade: Integrate the “4 Ps” of Traditional Marketing into Your Plan
(Nov. 24, 2009) Any traditional marketing 101 course will tell you about the magical quartet that composes the music of the marketing mix: price, product, placement and promotion (or, the "Four Ps"). Find out how to incorporate for-profit strategies into your marketing.

Avoiding the Cost Ratio Trap
(Nov. 24, 2009) Is your organization feeling pressured to meet unrealistic expectations for fundraising costs? Learn how you can move beyond simplistic ratios and measure the real returns on your investment in fundraising.

National Philanthropy Day® Celebrations in Full Swing
National Philanthropy Day is now in full swing, with chapters hosting celebrations of all kinds throughout November and beyond.

Men and Women Equally Likely to Include Charity in Estate Plans
(Nov. 3, 2009) Gender does not generally predict whether someone who donates to charity is likely to leave a charitable bequest in his or her will, according to a recent study by the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University.

AFP Presents Omaha Fundraising Consultant Paul Strawhecker with Highest Volunteer Honor
(Oct. 27, 2009) AFP has recently bestowed the Barbara Marion Award for Outstanding Leadership to AFP, the association’s highest volunteer and leadership recognition, to Paul J. Strawhecker, MPA, ACFRE.

Elements of Successful Prospect Research
(Oct. 27, 2009) In a new report, wealth research services firm WealthEngine offers advice on what makes up a successful prospect research program for a nonprofit, including proper planning, integration with your database, and keeping data secure.

Reminder: Use of AFP Logo
(Oct. 20, 2009) AFP members are allowed to use the AFP logo on websites, business cards and other professional materials, but only in conjunction with the phrase “member of.”

Charitable Giving Down So Far in 2009, But Critical Giving Period Coming Up
More than half of charities are experiencing a downturn in contributions so far this year compared to the same time in 2008, according to an informal poll by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP).

Canadian Nonprofit Boards: Offering the Right Tools
(Oct. 13, 2009) A new study looking at trends in board governance shows that a little orientation, direction and training can go a long way in ensuring success.

Perspectives: Philanthropy in the New Economy
(Oct. 13, 2009) In the new fundraising landscape resulting from economic recession, one thing is clear: everyone in the organization has a role in philanthropy. Staying flat-footed is simply not an option.

AFP 50th Anniversary (1960-2010)
List of AFP and AFP Foundation Chairs.

To Get Our Name Out There
(Oct. 6, 2009) Here is some advice and perspective on how to raise awareness of your nonprofit organization by the good work your organization does, not by the efforts it makes to simply “get attention.”

Sparking Corporate Partnerships: Welcome to the Neighborhood
(Oct. 6, 2009) In today’s environment there is still potential in cause marketing and corporate partnerships between your nonprofit and a for-profit business, large or small. Here’s a look at some do’s and don’ts when exploring corporate partnerships.

AFP 50th Anniversary (1960-2010)
List of Chapters and When They Were Formed: AFP’s first chapter—The New York Chapter—was chartered in 1964. AFP is proud to celebrate its 50th anniversary with more than 200 chapters around the world.

AFP 50th Anniversary (1960-2010)
Personal Recollections: What was your first experience with AFP and when? How has AFP helped your professional—or even personal—life?

AFP 50th Anniversary (1960-2010)
AFP 50th Anniversary Task Force: In 2008, Robbe Healy, AFP’s chair, created the 50th Anniversary Task Force to guide the association’s efforts in celebrating its anniversary.

AFP 50th Anniversary (1960-2010)
AFP 50th Anniversary Chapter Toolkit: In 2010, AFP International, with more than 30,000 members and 206 chapters worldwide, will celebrate 50 years of advancing ethical and effective fundraising. The anniversary will officially be announced at the 2009 Leadership Academy and all anniversary activities will be completed by year-end 2010. A number of special events will take place over the course of this period of time.

AFP 50th Anniversary (1960-2010)
History of the Association of Fundraising Professionals: In 1960, three fundraisers met for lunch in New York City to discuss an idea they had been toying with for a while: creating an association for charitable fundraisers. Find out how got started and how it’s changed the profession over the past 50 years.

Advancing Philanthropy Editorial Advisory Council Established
(Sept. 29, 2009) AFP has established an editorial advisory council to provide Advancing Philanthropy with direction from individuals who deal with the many issues facing fundraising professionals every day.

Contact Your Members of Congress to Protect the Charitable Deduction!
(Sept. 29, 2009) The White House and some members of Congress have been pressing for harmful limits on charitable deductions to fund healthcare reforms.

AFP eWire Skill Builder Sept. 22, 2009: The Development Plan
AFP eWire Skill Builder Sept. 22, 2009: The Development Plan

The Development Plan: "You Want Me to Think Before I Act?"
(Sept. 22, 2009) The following tips will help you move your development plan beyond logistics, activities and numbers toward seeing the bigger picture.

The Development Plan: Getting Started
(Sept. 22, 2009) Learn the first steps to creating or revising your development plan with tips from AFP’s book, Nonprofit Essentials: The Development Plan.

The Value of a Development Plan
(Sept. 22, 2009) In today’s economy, hit-or-miss fundraising is simply not an option. A good development plan will keep your various fundraising vehicles tuned and headed toward the same checkered flag.

Small Boards Left Foundations Vulnerable to Madoff Scheme
(Sept. 15, 2009) A recent study reveals that the foundations hit hardest by the Bernard Madoff scandal had very small, homogeneous boards.

Human Services Organizations Strained, New York City Study Shows
(Sept. 15, 2009) A recent report released by the Human Service Council (HSC) and Baruch College: School of Public Affairs shows that the majority of human services organizations in New York City are seeing major decreases to public and private funding due to the economic recession.

In Tough Times, Donors Still Want to Know: “Where’s the Beef?”
(Sept. 15, 2009) Times are tough. For some organizations times are really tough. But don’t let the pinch you feel dominate your message to donors. They still want to hear about results.

Doorley and Schick Earn ACFRE Credential
Mary Doorley, of Melrose, Mass., and Marcella Moyer Schick, of Allentown, Pa., are the 86th and 87th fundraisers to earn the Advanced Certified Fundraising Executive (ACFRE) credential.

The New AFPnet.org: “We’ve Only Just Begun”
Yes, you can thank AFP for putting that quintessential '70s song firmly in your head for the rest of the day. But hopefully a visit to AFP’s exciting new website will help dislodge any related memories of wide shirt lapels and powder blue leisure suits!

Charitable Fundraising Salaries Decrease Slightly Across North America
(May 12, 2009) Salaries for charitable fundraisers in the United States and Canada decreased in 2008, according to the latest Association of Fundraising Professionals’ (AFP) Compensation and Benefits Study.

AFP Member Testimonials
"There is no greater professional advancement opportunity anywhere that is more beneficial than the AFP International Conference on Fundraising."

North Park University Offers Tuition Discount to AFP Members
AFP and North Park University in Chicago, Ill., have partnered in a pilot project to offer AFP members a 45 percent discount on the cost of tuition for graduate programs offered through North Park’s School of Business and Nonprofit Management (SBNM).

Nominations Still Open for Campbell & Company Awards for Excellence in Fundraising
The Campbell & Company Awards for Excellence in Fundraising are presented to organizations large and small that display innovative techniques in fundraising and achieve remarkable fundraising results. In 2008 ForKids of Norfolk, Va., was honored for its excellent fundraising program. Nominate your organization today for the 2009 award!

Study Shows Americans Pulling Back From Volunteering
Americans say they have cut back on volunteer service to their communities and believe others have chosen to look out for themselves as a result of the recession.

The Vicious Cycle of Low Overhead
As if making the case for overhead for the long-term health of your organization wasn't difficult enough … now there is additional pressure to cut costs. Nonprofit leaders say it’s time to break the cycle of unrealistic expectations for overhead spending.

Pre-qualify an educational session for ACFRE credit
Download the ACFRE Course Documentation Form and Education Session Guidelines here.

About Advanced Education at AFP
AFP offers a number of educational opportunities especially for advanced fundraising practitioners. These opportunities address both the practical skills and theoretical understanding required of advanced-level fundraisers.

Certification Fees Increase for 2005
(Jan. 10, 2005) CFRE International, the organization which oversees the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential, has increased the fees it charges for certification and recertification of professional fundraisers.

CFRE Announces Switch to Computer-Based Testing in 2006
(July 11, 2005) The CFRE International Board of Directors recently announced plans to switch to computer-based testing for all North American CFRE candidates beginning in 2006.

CFRE Testing: 2006 Schedule, New Computerized Process Available
(Oct. 10, 2005) CFRE International, the organization that manages the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credentialing program, has released its 2006 schedule of international exam dates and locations, as well as its new computer-based testing program.

CFRE Application Now Online
(May 19, 2006) CFRE International, the organization that manages the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential, has announced that a new web-based application form is now available for all applicants.

Data on 2005 CFRE Exams Released
(Aug. 7, 2006) CFRE International has released aggregate data about the 2005 Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) exams, highlighting how applicants fared on the test overall and areas where fundraisers may need to improve.

CFRE Continuing Education Policy Changes
(Aug. 14, 2006) Beginning in 2010, all applicants for the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential must submit at least 50 percent of their continuing education activities from approved providers.

Changes to CFRE Certification Process
(Apr. 23, 2007) CFRE International, the organization that oversees the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential, has announced new changes to the certification process.

AFP's Curriculum Framework Updated
(May 26, 2008) AFP’s Knowledge Areas and Curriculum Framework, which benchmarks the skills and competencies a fundraiser needs at each level of the profession, has been updated to reflect additional knowledge areas.

ACFRE Board Announces Change to ACFRE Application Process
(Sept. 15, 2008) Individuals who have earned the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential will no longer have to be recertified as a CFRE before they can begin applying for the ACFRE (Advanced Certified Fundraising Executive) credential.

Two Fundraisers Earn Top Fundraising Credential
(Nov. 17, 2008) Dree Thomson-Diamond of Edmonton, Alberta, and Walter R. Gillette III of Washington, D.C., recently earned the highest professional certification available to fundraisers, the Advanced Certified Fundraising Executive (ACFRE).

Tools for growing your career in philanthropy
Tools for growing your career in philanthropy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Fundraising Ethics
AFP has prepared an FAQ for ethical behavior in fundraising (revised February 2009). The document is available here as a PDF download. 

Network Globally With ammado
(March 9, 2009) To help members connect with fundraisers in different countries, AFP has partnered with ammado, an online global networking community for the nonprofit sector.

Twitter: It Isn't Just for Breakfast Anymore
(March 9, 2009) There is a growing number of savvy early-adopters in the nonprofit world taking advantage of Twitter as a “friend-raising” tool. Once they have built up their social capital, they are turning it into a fundraising machine. Learn more about this new social networking tool.

Welcome to Web 2.0: Where Community Comes First, Then Fundraising
(March 9, 2009) With all the buzz around social networking, what should a fundraiser do about it? Is it worth your time? Jono Smith, vice president of marketing at Network for Good advises us to ask a few important questions before diving in.

Get In Touch: Two Upcoming AFP Presentations Focus on Marketing
(Feb. 23, 2009) Act now to take advantage of two great AFP Web/Audioconferences related to marketing. This Thursday, learn how to make the most of every encounter with donors. On March 12, find out how to make a “human” connection in the world of online outreach.

How to Build and Promote an Online Monthly Donor Program
(Feb. 23, 2009) Think turning yearly donors into monthly donors involves a flood of time, energy and paper? Think again. Learn how to incorporate a recurring online gift program without all the sweat.

Lasting Impression: Moving Your Brand Beyond Logos and Letterhead
(Feb. 23, 2009) A logo, a tagline, a name. These are only a part of your organization’s public identity. Jocelyne Daw explains how a unique brand can get to the core of what you stand for and work to achieve.

Freshly Baked Cookies and Other Ways to Say 'Thank You'
(Feb. 9, 2009) It’s the thought that counts, as they say. But if you want to show donors your gratitude in a memorable way, your recognition should be creative, unique, even personal.

Acknowledgement: Making Donors Proud of Their Gifts
(Feb. 9, 2009) Thanking donors is part of building a relationship, whether that comes in the form of a letter, a gift or a simple handshake, says Kim Strydonck of Ottawa, Ontario.

Donor Recognition: Thinking Like a Donor
(Feb. 9, 2009) The value of recognizing your donors goes far beyond showing appreciation for a gift. Recognition can motivate donors to be strong and lasting supporters of your organization.

Face-to-Face: How to Hold Focused, Successful Meetings With Donors
(Jan. 26, 2009) “The key to donor relations today is to think of it like customer relations,” says Erika Dockery, CFRE, executive director of the World Affairs Council of Greater Cincinnati. She offers ways to help you end with results rather than loose ends.

Expand Your Mail Campaigns Into Web Campaigns...And Other Online Tips
(Jan. 12, 2009)  Do you believe that your organization is not sophisticated enough to enter the world of online giving?  Think again. Not only can you likely achieve more on the web than you currently are, but if you track your successes, you’ll learn how better to reach your constituents.

Sample Document: Board Individual Development Plan
(Nov. 18, 2008) Alexi Miller, development director for Acterra: Action for a Healthy Planet in Palo Alto, Calif., has graciously provided a copy of a board member contract that specifies the different ways each board member will contribute to an organization's fundraising activities. AFP thanks Alexi for providing the document for other AFP members to review and use.

Fundraising Tips: The Art of Setting and Changing Giving Levels
(Sept. 22, 2008) It seems easy on the surface—set up a series of donation amounts and develop a plan for recognizing donors as they reach each level. However, adding to or changing giving levels can be dangerous terrain if you don’t do your homework.

Crafting an Inspiring Tagline: What Not to Do
(Sept. 22, 2008) Does your nonprofit’s name sound like several others? Do people always ask, “So what does your organization do?” Incorporating a tagline into your organization’s branding can clarify the unique mission of your organization and give people a reason to look deeper.

Member Documents: Development Committee
(Sept. 19, 2008) Ruth Stenberg, director of development and gift planning for Concord Counseling Service in Westerville, Ohio, has graciously provided a description of and qualifications for her organization's development committee, as well as a commitment and sign-up form for the committee.

Sample Document: Case for Support
(Aug. 8, 2008) Tom Lazar, the director of development for Light of Life Rescue Mission in Pittsburgh, Pa., has provided the attached case for support (draft) for an upcoming major gifts campaign for his organization.

Sample Documents: Accountability of Monies Online Forum Discussion
(May 4, 2008) As part of the online discussion on AFP's forums regarding accountability of monies and reconciliing accounting and fundraising, Barbara Clemenson, CPA, CFRE, adjunct instructor with Case Western Reserve University and City Vision College, and consultant with SDG Nonprofit Consulting in Euclid, Ohio, has graciously agreed to allow AFP to post two documents she developed for review and use by AFP members.

AFP Youth in Philanthropy Task Force Members
See the full list of Task Force members.

AFP Strategic Plan 2007-2010
With a core purpose of advancing ethical and effective fundraising, the Association of Fundraising Professionals has undertaken to ensure that fundraising is viewed as a credible and respected profession for civic betterment throughout the world. Goals and outcomes are key to this effort, as are the measures of success. These elements and more are spelled out in the Strategic Plan for 2007-2010. The plan was approved by the Board of Directors on March 24, 2007.

AFP Governance Task Force documents
Governance task force documents

Member Benefit: AFP Code of Ethical Principles and Standards
(June 26, 2006) In the 2004 AFP Member Benefits Survey, AFP members overwhelming agreed that the Code of Ethical Principles and Standards of Professional Practice was the highest-rated member benefit.

Interview with Former YIP Chair Katherine Falk
An interview with Katherine Falk, CFRE, Former Chair of AFP’s Youth in Philanthropy Task Force. 

Youth In Philanthropy: AFP And 4-H Plan Community Pilots
The National 4-H has created a curriculum to expand the understanding of philanthropy and teach ethical fundraising skills to high school and college students in communities across the United States. 4-H has invited AFP to participate in the evaluation of the pilots for the new curriculum. 

AFP Member Benefit: 2005 AFP Compensation and Benefits Study
AFP Member Benefit: 2005 AFP Compensation and Benefits Study

About the Ready Reference Series
Get the quick answers to your most pressing fundraising questions with the AFP Ready Reference Series.

Diversity
Chapters share their brightest ideas for diversity programs.

Audioconference Highlights: Ethical Leadership in Nonprofit Organizations: How to Conduct an Ethics Audit - May 2003
A summary of "Ethical Leadership in Nonprofit Organizations: How to Conduct an Ethics Audit," presented May 21, 2003 by Tim Delaney.

Dove Audio Class Highlights: Readiness Assessment for a Capital Campaign: The Key to Success - May 2003
A summary of the Audio Class - AFP/Dove on Fundraising: "Readiness Assessment for a Capital Campaign: The Key to Success," presented May 8, 2003 by Kent Dove.

Audiconference Highlights: Ethical Leadership in Nonprofit Organizations: How to Conduct an Ethics Audit - May 2003
(May 30, 2003) - Fundraisers who were unable to take part in the informative, how-to AFP Audioconference on conducting an ethics audit last week can still benefit from the session.

Guide to the Dictionary
Have a question about what certain formatting in the AFP Fundraising Dictionary means? Learn here about abbreviations, headwords, parts of speech, derivatives and more. This is the guide to the dictionary.

About the Editors
This section provides brief biographies on Barbara R. Levy, ACFRE and R.L. Cherry, the editors of the AFP Fundraising Dictionary.

Acknowledgements
It is with deepest appreciation and gratitude for the contributions, perseverance, and dedication of the seven members of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (formerly NSFRE) Dictionary Task Force that AFP recognizes the people who worked to develop the AFP Fundraising Dictionary.

History of The AFP Fundraising Dictionary
Since its inception in 1965, The Association of Fundraising Professionals (formerly NSFRE) has recognized its responsibility for helping to define the fundraising profession. The first iteration addressing this goal was the Glossary of Fund-Raising Terms, published in 1976 and containing approximately 355 terms and definitions. Learn how we arrived at where we are today -- the AFP Fundraising Dictionary.

Introduction and Forward to the AFP Fundraising Dictionary
The AFP Dictionary Task Force first met in the mid-'90s to create a dictionary to replace the Glossary of Fund-Raising Terms. Recently, the task force diligently updated the dictionary and created this new version, which is being posted on the AFP website for the first time.  What follows is a brief forward and introduction to the AFP Fundraising Dictionary.

The AFP Fundraising Dictionary
Welcome to the AFP Fundraising Dictionary online!

Commission Examines Third Sector Six Years After Recommending Reform
(May 16, 2003) - Six years ago, a national commission on philanthropy challenged the philanthropic sector to do better, calling for more effectiveness and more community-based, results-oriented organizations. Members of that committee, led by Sen. Lamar Alexander (R-TN), reconvened this week to discuss how the sector is faring since releasing their report.

Two Canadian Philanthropic Groups To Merge In 2004
(May 16, 2003) - Two major philanthropic organizations in Canada announced their pending merger this week.

Audioconference Highlights: Marketing Strategies for Fundraising Success - April 2003
A summary of "Marketing Strategies for Fundraising Success," presented April 24, 2003 by Donna H. Melton, CFRE.

An interview with Former YIP Chair, Pat Bjorhovde
An interview with Patricia O. Bjorhovde, CFRE, former Chair of AFP's Youth in Philanthropy Task Force; by Tom Watson, writer for Today's Fundraiser.

Book Review: Opening Doors: Pathways to Diverse Donors
Opening Doors: Pathways to Diverse Donors;by Diana S. Newman. Winner, 2003 AFP/Skystone Ryan Research Prize

Mixed Fundraising Results Among North American Charities - The AFP State of Fundraising 2002
(March 24, 2003 - PRESS RELEASE) - Charitable fundraising across North America remained quite strong in 2002 despite the challenges of a slowing economy, according to a new survey released today by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP).

Audioconference Highlights: How to Build a Highly Successful Monthly Giving Program - February 2003
A summary of "How to Build a Highly Successful Monthly Giving Program,' presented February 11, 2003 by Harvey McKinnon, CFRE.

Canada's Liberal Party Adopts AFP Code Of Ethics And Donor Bill Of Rights
(Feb. 13, 2003) - The Liberal Party of Canada has agreed to adopt and abide by the Association of Fundraising Professionals' (AFP) Code of Ethical Principles and Standards of Professional Practice, as well as the Donor Bill of Rights.

Audioconference Highlights: Creating a Development Plan that Produces Ownership and Results - January 2003
A summary of "Creating a Development Plan that Produces Ownership and Results," presented January 9, 2003 by Simone P. Joyaux, ACFRE.

Audioconference Highlights: How to Work With Boards, Even Though Boards Don't Work - December 2002
A summary of "How to Work With Boards, Even Though Boards Don't Work," presented December 4, 2002 by Kim Klein.

State Reporting Deadlines and Information for Chapters
(Jan. 6, 2003) - A number of states require solicitation disclosure statements on all written materials mailed to potential donors in their states. The following lists the states and the most recent disclosure information to be included on all charitable solicitations mailed to residents in these states.

Donor Bill of Rights
To ensure that philanthropy merits the respect and trust of the general public, AFP and other fundraising organizations declare that all donors have the following rights.

Book Review: Successful Special Events: Planning, Hosting, Evaluating
Read about and/or order a copy of "Successful Special Events: Planning, Hosting, Evaluating" by Barbara R. Levy, ACFRE and Barbara H. Marion, CFRE.

Audioconference Highlights: Special Events: Boon or Bust? - October 2002
A summary of "Special Events: Boon or Bust?", presented October 9, 2002 by Barbara R. Levy, ACFRE and Barbara H. Marion, CFRE.

Employment Opportunities at AFP
Interested in putting your skills and experience to work for the largest community of professional fundraisers in the world? AFP has the following positions available at its International Headquarters in Arlington, Va.

Audioconference Highlights: Success Online: The ePhilanthropy Revolution - September 2002
A summary of "Success Online: The ePhilanthropy Revolution," presented September 12, 2002 by Theodore Hart, ACFRE; Michael Johnston; and Walter Sczudlo, LL.M.

Book Review: Corporate and Foundation Fundraising: A Complete Guide from the Inside
Corporate and Foundation Fund Raising: A Complete Guide from the Inside, by Eugene Scanlan.  

Audioconference Highlights: Thinking Inside the Corporate and Foundation Box: Trends, Techniques and Tactics for Funding Success - August 2002
A summary of "Thinking Inside the Corporate and Foundation Box: Trends, Techniques and Tactics for Funding Success," presented August 7, 2002 by Eugene A. Scanlan, Ph.D., CFRE.

The Ethics of Consulting Fees
NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS often hire professional consultants to assist in the development and execution of fundraising campaigns.

Book Review: Membership Development: An Action Plan for Results
Membership Development: An Action Plan for Results, by Patricia Rich and Dana Hines. Membership Development: An Action Plan for Results focuses exclusively on helping nonprofits achieve desired results and sustain success.

Audioconference Highlights: Strategic Timelines for Capital and Endowment Campaigns - June 2002
A summary of "Strategic Timelines for Capital and Endowment Campaigns," presented June 12, 2002 by veteran campaigner and consultant Stanley Weinstein, ACFRE.

Teaching children about philanthropy
Teaching young people about the importance of philanthropy is not easy. Translating these important life lessons into Spanish makes this task even more challenging.

Audioconference Highlights: The Development Audit: Taking Your Program to the Next Level - May 2002
A summary of "The Development Audit: Taking Your Program to the Next Level," presented May 14, 2002 by Linda Lysakowski, ACFRE and Judith Snyder, CFRE.

Book Review: The Complete Guide to Fundraising Management
The Complete Guide to Fundraising Management, Second Edition, by Stanley Weinstein, ACFRE, EMBA.

Diversity Essay: Latino philanthropy in the U.S.
Juan Calixto, CFRE, notes that the Latino population has reached 35.3 million people, with purchasing power estimated to reach $450 billion. Fundraising among them is about  basics: Know your audience, get them involved, and follow through with good stewardship.

Diversity Essay: Native American fundraising: Don't forget your blanket
Although Native Americans are people of infinite variety, there are some commonalities shared among Native communities that can be helpful in fundraising. Kay C. Peck, CFRE, explores.

Diversity Essay: traditions of giving and sharing in Asian cultures
Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, and Korean traditions of giving and sharing can be unique or have similarities to practices in other cultures. Janice Gow Pettey, CFRE, reviews.

Diversity Essay: Native American culture and fundraising
Prudence S. Precourt, Ph.D., CFRE, offers perspective on the general history and culture of Native Americans, and how these factors relate to current fundraising practices.

Diversity Essay: Black philanthropy in America
Giving, in the American black culture began during the slavery years and remains a significant and meaningful part of black culture, notes author Spencer I. Scott.

Diversity Essay: Philanthropy as a tenet of Islam
Islam is the second largest religion in the world, with 1.3 billion adherents in 184 countries, including three million people in the U.S. Author John Huebler offers basic information about the practices and teachings of Islam.

Diversity Essay: Characteristics of Cuban-American fundrasing
Author Rolando Damian Rodriguez, CFRE believes that fundraising succeeds in any culture using the same basic human principles. He offers insights into the Cuban-American culture of South Florida.

Diversity Essay: Fundraising in the Jewish community
Fundraisers in/for the Jewish community operate by an entirely different set of rules, advises Henry D. Lewis. Here are a few of them.

Book Review: Cultivating Diversity in Fundraising
Cultivating Diversity in Fundraising by Janice Gow Pettey. Raising money in today's diverse communities is a growing challenge for fundraisers and philanthropists, requiring thoughtful strategies, successful collaborations, and a respectful understanding of people's differences.

Book Review: Developing Major Gifts: Turning Small Donors into Big Contributors
Developing Major Gifts: Turning Small Donors into Big Contributors, by Laura Fredricks, JD; Aspen Publishers, 2001
Softcover; 240 pages; ISBN: 0-8342-1829-1

The Virtual New Member Kit
So ... you've just joined AFP ... what happens now? Take a virtual tour of AFP member benefits!

AFP releases study of fundraising compensation and benefits
How does your salary measure up? AFP is releasing its first comprehensive salary survey, which reveals an average of $61,223 in the United States and $67,600 in Canada, with a strong positive correlation to experience and education. But the gap persists between the average salaries of men and women.

Book Review: Careers in Fundraising
Careers in Fundraising by Lilya Wagner, Ed.D, CFRE;  John Wiley & Sons, 2002. This long-overdue book is a detailed guide on how to prepare for, enter and thrive in the field of fundraising.

General bright ideas
A business planning program, a lending library and a unique way to identify new members at a meeting are among successful programs described here.

Publications & Newsletters
Two chapters offer detailed lists of what their top-drawer member directories contain. Chapter newsletters are a vital link to your members...see samples here.

Chapter courses and events

Bright Ideas for sponsored courses and events include taking advantage of the AFP audioconferences, a campaign to attract small nonprofits into the fold and study groups for CFRE candidates.

Mentoring Programs
Find strategies and sample documents for a successful mentoring program.

Membership recruitment and retention
Chapters share successful strategies in recruiting and retaining members.

Foundation Campaign
AFP chapters with creative approaches to the Every Member Campaign share their ideas.

Chapter management
Chapter management ideas are described, covering board member responsibilities, an official documents binder, and policies and procedures manual.

Book Review: Invest in Charity: A Donor's Guide to Charitable Giving
Invest in Charity: A Donor's Guide to Charitable Giving, by Ron Jordan & Katelyn Quynn. This volume is a helpful tool for development professionals who want to educate their current or new donors about their philanthropic options.

Book Review: The Legislative Labyrinth: A Map for Not-for-Profits
The Legislative Labyrinth: A Map for Not-for-Profits, Ed. Walter P. Pidgeon, Jr., Ph.D., CAE, CFRE. A complete and up-to-date guide to utilizing the United States legislative system, for not-for-profit organizations and their leaders.

Aspen's Fundraising Series for the 21st Century
Aspen's Fundraising Series for the 21st Century is comprised of nine volumes designed especially for fundraisers. Discover proven strategies and techniques you can use immediately to get results.

The Charleston Principles: final version
The National Association of State Charity Officials has released its final version of the Charleston Principles -- guidelines for states to use when addressing the issue of Internet regulation. The final version is not binding upon states, but does provide some glimpses as to how state charity officials are preparing to tackle this issue.

The CFRE Review Course
AFP’s revised CFRE Review Course offers development professionals an opportunity to review the main components of a complete fundraising program. It is a two-day, intensive program the purpose of which is to provide an overview of skills techniques, and program components base on fundraising experience at the five-year level.

How to host the AFP CFRE Review Course
Learn here how to host the CFRE Review Course, formerly the Survey Course in Fundraising, in your area.

Factors affecting fundraising costs
These factors should be taken into consideration when evaluating an organization's fundraising costs and returns.

What it means to be a member
What does it mean to be a member of the largest community of professional fundraisers in the world? Find out here!

About the Member Gateway
There are many benefits to AFP membership, and we hope you take advantage of them all! The members-only Gateway includes the AFP directory, program discounts, documents, information on posting your resume, and how to sign up for discussions.

AFP educational offerings
AFP provides the following products and services.

AFP Internet Guidelines
The AFP Internet Transaction Guidelines offer basic guidance for AFP members and others considering engaging the services of an online or similar service provider.

Donor responsibilities
When you are asked to make a charitable donation, you can almost always be assured that the organization is legitimate, but it pays to be careful. Here are a few tips to make sure your giving counts!

About Advancing Philanthropy
A true member benefit, Advancing Philanthropy, the bi-monthly magazine published by AFP, provides practical information, useful tools and other resources to help members succeed and advance.

Links to education websites
Information on education programs and links to education websites.

Periodicals contact list
Following is a contact list for periodicals held by the AFP Resource Center. Visit these publications' websites or call their offices to order reprints.

FAQ: Educational opportunities
Where can I find information on educational opportunities in fundraising and the nonprofit sector?

About the AFP Resource Center
No matter where you are, no matter what size your budget, AFP gives you access to one of the most complete reference centers for development professionals. Get information on topics ranging from endowments to the Internet to salaries.

The Case for Joining AFP
AFP is dedicated to making sure members have the skills, knowledge and resources to succeed. Here's why you should join.

Resources for Educators
Resources for Educators

AFP eWire - April 28, 2009


AFP eWire - May 5, 2009


AFP eWire - May 12, 2009


AFP eWire - May 19, 2009


AFP eWire - May 26, 2009


AFP eWire - June 9, 2009


AFP eWire - June 16, 2009


AFP eWire - June 23, 2009


AFP eWire - June 30, 2009


AFP eWire - July 7, 2009


AFP eWire - July 14, 2009


AFP eWire - July 21, 2009


AFP eWire - July 28, 2009


AFP eWire - August 4, 2009


AFP eWire - August 11, 2009


AFP eWire - August 18, 2009


July/August 2009


AFP Member Resources
AFP Member Resources

Mayo 2009


Diversity Essays


Resource Center Testimonial
Resource Center Testimonial

Summer 2009 Public Policy Update


Maehara Again Named Among Most Influential Nonprofit Leaders
The NonProfit Times has again placed Paulette V. Maehara, CFRE, CAE, president and CEO of AFP, among the ranks of the U.S. nonprofit sector’s most influential in 2009.

AFP-Canada


Latest Fundraising Research


Faculty Training Academy


AFP eWire Printable Version: March 16, 2009
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of March 16-20, 2009.

AFP eWire Skill Builder Printable Version: March 9, 2009
The printable version of AFP's new eWire Skill Builder newsletter for the week of March 9-13, 2009.

AFP eWire Printable Version: March 2, 2009
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of March 2-6, 2009.

AFP eWire Skill Builder Printable Version: Feb. 23, 2009
The printable version of AFP's new eWire Skill Builder newsletter for the week of Feb. 23-27, 2009.

AFP eWire Printable Version: Feb. 17, 2009
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Feb. 17-20, 2009.

AFP eWire Skill Builder Printable Version: Feb. 9, 2009
The printable version of AFP's new eWire Skill Builder newsletter for the week of Feb. 9-13, 2009.

AFP eWire Printable Version: Feb. 2, 2009
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Feb. 2-6, 2009.

AFP eWire Skill Builder Printable Version: Jan. 26, 2009
The printable version of AFP's new eWire Skill Builder newsletter for the week of Jan. 26-30, 2009.

AFP eWire Printable Version: Jan. 20, 2009
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Jan. 20-23, 2009.

AFP eWire Skill Builder Printable Version: Jan. 12, 2009
The printable version of AFP's new eWire Skill Builder newsletter for the week of Jan. 12-16, 2009.

AFP eWire Printable Version: January 5, 2009
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Jan. 5-9, 2009.

AFP eWire Printable Version: December 15, 2008
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Dec. 15-19, 2008.

AFP eWire Printable Version: December 8, 2008
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Dec. 8-12, 2008.

AFP eWire Printable Version: December 1, 2008
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Dec. 1-5, 2008.

AFP eWire Printable Version: November 17, 2008
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Nov. 17-21, 2008.

AFP eWire Printable Version: November 10, 2008
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Nov. 10-14, 2008.

AFP eWire Canada Printable Version: November 10, 2008
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, Canada eWire, for the week of Nov. 10-14, 2008.

AFP eWire Printable Version: Nov. 3, 2008
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Nov. 3-7, 2008.

AFP eWire Printable Version: Oct. 27, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: October 20, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: October 14, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: Oct. 6, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: September 29, 2008
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AFP eWire Canada Printable Version: September 22, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: September 22, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: September 15, 2008
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Sept. 15-19, 2008.

AFP eWire Canada Printable Version: September 8, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: September 8, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: September 2, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: August 25, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: August 18, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: August 11, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: August 4, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: July 28, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: July 21, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: July 14, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: July 7, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: June 30, 2008
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AFP Canada eWire Printable Version: June 30, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: June 23, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: June 16, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: June 9, 2008
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AFP eWire Canada Printable Version: June 2, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: June 2, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: May 27, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: May 19, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: May 12, 2008
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AFP Canada eWire Printable Version: May 12, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: May 5, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: April 28, 2008
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AFP Canada eWire Printable Version: April 28, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: April 21, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: April 14, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: April 7, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: April 2, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: March 24, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: March 17, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: March 10, 2008
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AFP eWire Canada Printable Version: March 3, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: March 3, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: February 25, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: February 19, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: February 11, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: February 4, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: January 28, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: January 22, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: January 14, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: January 7, 2008
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AFP eWire Printable Version: December 17, 2007
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AFP eWire Printable Version: December 10, 2007
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AFP eWire Printable Version: December 3, 2007
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AFP eWire Printable Version: November 19, 2007
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AFP eWire Printable Version: November 12, 2007
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AFP eWire Printable Version: November 5, 2007
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AFP eWire Canada Printable Version: September 29, 2007
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AFP eWire Printable Version: October 29, 2007
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AFP eWire Printable Version: October 22, 2007
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AFP eWire Printable Version: October 15, 2007
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AFP eWire Printable Version: October 9, 2007
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AFP eWire Printable Version: October 1, 2007
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AFP eWire Printable Version: Sept. 24, 2007
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AFP eWire Printable Version: Sept. 17, 2007
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AFP eWire Printable Version: Sept. 10, 2007
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AFP eWire Printable Version: August 27, 2007
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AFP eWire Printable Version: August 20, 2007
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AFP eWire Printable Version Canada: August 13, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for Canadian members, for the week of Aug. 13-17, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: August 13, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Aug. 13-17, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: August 6, 2007
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AFP eWire Printable Version: July 30, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of July 30 - Aug. 3, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: July 23, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of July 23 - 27, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: July 16, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of July 16 - 20, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: June 9, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of July 9 - 13, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: July 2, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of July 2 - 6, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: June 25, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of June 25 - 29, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: June 18, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of June 18 - 22, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: June 11, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of June 11 - 15, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: June 4, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of June 4 - 8, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: May 29, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of May 28 - June 1, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: May 21, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of May 21 - 15, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: May 14, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of May 14 - 18, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: May 7, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of May 7 - 11, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: April 30, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of April 30 - May 4, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: April 23, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of April 23-27, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: April 16, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of April 16 - 20, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version April 9, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of April 9 - 13, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: April 2, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of April 2-6, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: March 26, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of March 26-30, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: March 19, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of March 19-23, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: March 12, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of March 12-16, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: March 5, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of March 5-9, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: Feb. 26, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Feb. 26 - March 2, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: Feb. 20, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Feb. 19 - 23, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: February 12, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Feb. 12 - 16, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: February 5, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Feb. 5 - 9, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: Jan. 29, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Jan. 29 - Feb. 2, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: Jan. 22, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Jan. 22-26, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: Jan. 16, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Jan. 15-19, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: January 8, 2007
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Jan. 8-12, 2007.

AFP eWire Printable Version: December 18, 2006
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Dec. 18-22, 2006

AFP eWire Printable Version: December 11, 2006
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Dec. 11-15, 2006.

AFP eWire Printable Version: December 4, 2006
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Dec. 4-8, 2006.

AFP eWire Printable Version: November 20, 2006
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Nov. 20-24, 2006.

AFP Ewire Printable Version: November 13, 2006
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Nov. 13-17, 2006

AFP Ewire Printable Version: November 6, 2006
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Nov. 6-10, 2006.

AFP eWire Printable Version: October 30, 2006
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Oct. 30 - Nov. 3, 2006.

AFP eWire Printable Version: October 23, 2006
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Oct. 23-27, 2006.

AFP eWire Printable Version: October 16, 2006
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Oct. 16-20, 2006.     

AFP eWire Printable Version: Oct. 10, 2006
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Oct. 9-13, 2006   

AFP eWire Printable Version: October 2, 2006
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Oct. 2, 2006

AFP eWire Printable Version: September 25, 2006
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Sept. 25, 2006.

AFP eWire Printable Version: July 10, 2006
AFP eWire Printable Version: July 10, 2006  

AFP eWire Canada Printable Version: Sept. 11, 2006
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire Canada, for the week of Sept. 11, 2006.

AFP eWire Printable Version: Sept.18, 2006
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of Sept. 18, 2006.

AFP eWire - June 2, 2009


AFP eWire August 18, 2009: Print Version


AFP eWire Printable Version: July 21, 2009
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for July 21-27, 2009.

Advancing Philanthropy July/August 2009


AFP Member Testimonials
Why should you join AFP?  Our members are our best advocates!


AFP eWire Printable Version: July 14, 2009
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for July 14-20, 2009.

Member Motion/Accolades: May-June 2009
(July 7, 2009) AFP members are always accepting new challenges and exciting career opportunities, as well as receiving accolades for their commitment and service. Here are some job announcements, appointments, promotions and recognitions for May-June 2009.

Ready Reference Guides for the Tec de Monterrey Diploma Program
Presented are the Ready Reference Guides for the Tec de Monterrey Diploma Program.

AFP eWire Skill Builder Printable Version: June 30, 2009
The printable version of AFP's new eWire Skill Builder newsletter for June 30-July 6, 2009.

Know an Outstanding AFP Leader? Submit a Nomination for the Barbara Marion Award
(June 30, 2009) Do you know someone who has exhibited outstanding leadership to AFP or the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy? Nominate him or her today for this distinguished honor. Nominations are due to AFP July 15.

Nonprofits' Most Missed Marketing Tool—Email Signatures
(June 30, 2009) Email signatures (a.k.a. sig lines) are powerful, low-cost, high-return marketing tools (a virtual business card or ad) for your foundation or organization. What's interesting is how seldom sig lines are used.

Understanding the Value of Multichannel Fundraising
(June 30, 2009) An email campaign can be a great supplement to direct mail fundraising efforts, even if people still donate via the mail.

AFP Presents Birmingham Fundraiser Moran With Highest Volunteer Honor
(June 24, 2009) AFP recently honored William M. (Bill) Moran, ACFRE, with the Barbara Marion Award for Outstanding Leadership to AFP, the association’s highest volunteer and leadership recognition.

Analyst Predicts Slow Recovery for Sector, Advises Engagement and Planning
(June 24, 2009) The economy is not likely to rebound quickly and will require strong donor engagement. However, now is also an opportunity to improve the way nonprofits do business, says Susan Raymond, Ph.D.

AFP eWire Printable Version: June 24, 2009
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for June 24-29, 2009.

AFP eWire Skill Builder Printable Version: June 16, 2009
The printable version of AFP's new eWire Skill Builder newsletter for May June 16-22, 2009.

Take the “Numb” Out of Numbers
(June 16, 2009) Sometimes numbers alone just don’t cut it. What are the tangible results? What does a million dollars really mean for our community? Find out how to use metaphors to bring your statistics to life.

U.S. Giving Declines in 2008 Reflecting Economic Woes
(June 11, 2009) Charitable giving in the United States declined for the first time since 1987, reports the Giving USA Foundation, though total giving again broke the $300 billion mark.

AFP: An Investment in Your Future
(June 9, 2009) In these challenging times, remember that you and your organization are not at the mercy of the economy. The decisions you make have more influence on your organization’s fundraising success than anything the economy might do.

AFP eWire Printable Version: June 9, 2009
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for June 9-15, 2009.

San Antonio Businessman Bill Greehey Named 2009 Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser
(June 9, 2009) Bill Greehey, chairman of NuStar Energy and former CEO and chairman of Valero Energy Corporation, is the recipient of the 2009 Ketchum Award for Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser presented by AFP.

Total Annual Giving in Canada Grew By $1 Billion from 2004 to 2007
(June 9, 2009) The total amount of yearly charitable giving by Canadians increased by $1.1 billion from 2004 to 2007, reported the Canadian government agency Statistics Canada this week.

Improving Yourself—And Your Profession—Through Community
A professional association like AFP isn’t just crucial to your own personal growth and success. Organizations, professions and all of society rely on the work and efforts of like-minded individuals united as one voice in a professional association.

AFP Foundation for Philanthropy Expands Outreach with Generous Gift from RuffaloCODY
(June 2, 2009) The AFP Foundation for Philanthropy is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with RuffaloCODY, a fundraising, software and enrollment services firm in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, that will provide extensive calling services for the 2009 Every Member Campaign.

AFP eWire Skill Builder Printable Version: June 2, 2009
The printable version of AFP's new eWire Skill Builder newsletter for May June 2-8, 2009.

AFP eWire Printable Version: May 25, 2009
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of May 25-June 1, 2009.

AFP Study of Fundraising Effectiveness Gets Boost from Donor Software Firms
(May 25, 2009) Participate in the Fundraising Effectiveness Project and find out how your organization compares to others when the latest report is published in July.

Advancing Philanthropy May/June 2009


Advancing Philanthropy March/April 2009


AFP eWire Printable Version: May 19, 2009
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of May 19-25, 2009.

AFP Congratulates New CFRE Recipients
(May 19, 2009) The following members of AFP have recently earned the Certified Fund Raising Executive credential from CFRE International.

Insights About the Leadership Transition Process
(May 19, 2009) Having served several organizations as an interim chief executive, John Corwin describes what it is like for an organization to transition to a new leader. He also offers some helpful advice.

AFP eWire Printable Version: May 12, 2009
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for May 12-18, 2009.

Certified Fund Raising Executive Program Receives Distinguished Accreditation
(May 8, 2009) CFRE International’s Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) program has been granted accreditation by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).

"Dean" of American Fundraising Brakeley Jr. Dies at Age 93
(May 8, 2009) George A. Brakeley Jr., a national leader in the philanthropic and fundraising consulting communities, died of natural causes on May 1 in Naples, Fla.

AFP eWire Skill Builder Printable Version: May 5, 2009
The printable version of AFP's new eWire Skill Builder newsletter for May 5-11, 2009.

Foundation Relations: Don't Let the Big Table Stand in Your Way
(May 5, 2009) eWire contributing writer Derrick Feldmann shares his experiences working with nonprofits and foundations and offers some advice on how to build an authentic relationship, including some helpful do’s and don’ts.

Funder Perspective: Ways to Build Stronger Ties With Foundations
(May 5, 2009) Sometimes for a foundation, making a grant to an organization is a lot like sending a child to college. What are they really doing with the large investment you’ve made? This week eWire spoke with two seasoned foundation leaders about what they are looking for in a grantmaker-grantee relationship.

Ohio Fundraiser Frisch Named 2009 CCS Outstanding Fundraising Professional
(April 28, 2009) Former high school teacher Kenneth C. Frisch, ACFRE, director of development for Hospice of Northwest Ohio in Perrysburg, is the recipient of the 2009 CCS Award for Outstanding Fundraising Professional.

AFP eWire Printable Version: April 28, 2009
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of April 28-May 4, 2009.

Ohio Fundraiser Frisch Named 2009 CCS Outstanding Fundraising Professional
(April 28, 2009) Kenneth C. Frisch, ACFRE, director of development for Hospice of Northwest Ohio in Perrysburg, is the recipient of the 2009 CCS Award for Outstanding Fundraising Professional.

Leadership Gap Widens as Baby Boomers Retire
(April 28, 2009) Roughly a third of U.S. nonprofit organizations are looking to fill senior manager positions as of January, creating a steeper deficit in sector leadership than originally predicted.

AFP Awards Materials Now Available—Nominations Due July 15, 2010
Nominations forms for AFP's Awards for Philanthropy and other honors are now available and are due on July 15, 2010.

AFP eWire Skill Builder Printable Version: April 21, 2009
The printable version of AFP's new eWire Skill Builder newsletter for April 21-27, 2009.

Diverse Boards—Are You Prepared for Real Change?
(April 21, 2009) Diversifying your board requires organizational reflection. And inclusion does not end when you see new and different faces around the table.

Engaging Your Board in Sustainable Fundraising
(April 21, 2009) Most board members don’t want to be fundraisers—rather they want to be board members who are successful at fundraising, says Dave Sternberg of Achieve LLC. He offers tips on cultivating board members’ fundraising skills.

Assembling a Great Board
(April 21, 2009) Choosing the right board means going beyond affluence and influence, says Simone Joyaux, ACFRE. Great board members are brutally honest, passionate and collaborative.

The Color of Money

Wednesday, June 24, 2009: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.; The Howard Gittis Student Center at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pa.

 

AFP, the National Center for Black Philanthropy (NCFBP); the AFP Greater Philadelphia Chapter and the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy present the 1st Annual Color of Money professional training conference aims to empower fundraising professionals with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to secure funding for charitable organizations. We seek to instruct local professionals on how to raise capital to create positive impacts in their communities. For more information contact the AFP Greater Philadelphia Chapter Direct at 215-473-2261 or Email: chapter@afpgpc.org

 

AFP, The Globe and Mail Create 'A Time to Give'
(April 14, 2009) AFP is continuing its partnership with Canadian newspaper The Globe and Mail through a special June 27 philanthropy supplement entitled “A Time to Give.”

AFP Honors Alford for Outstanding Service to Fundraising, Philanthropy
(April 14, 2009) AFP has named Jimmie R. Alford, a trailblazing philanthropic consultant and champion of diversity within the fundraising profession, as the recipient of the prestigious Chair’s Award for Outstanding Service for 2009.

Foundation Celebrates Strategic Successes in The Steward
(April 14, 2009) The AFP Foundation for Philanthropy is excited to announce a $20,000 grant from The Philadelphia Foundation for The Color of Money Conference. Read about this generous grant along with the Foundation’s progress and its 2009 strategic initiatives in its latest issue of The Steward.

AFP eWire Printable Version: April 13, 2009
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of April 13-17, 2009.

Member Motion/Accolades: March-April 2009
(April 14, 2009) AFP members are always accepting new challenges and exciting career opportunities, as well as receiving accolades for their commitment and service. Here are some job announcements, appointments, promotions and recognitions for March-April 2009.

AFP Welcomes Five New Chapters
(April 14, 2009) AFP has recently added to its ranks five new chapters, including two collegiate chapters, located in several states across the U.S.

Winona Fundraiser Philip Schumacher Earns Highest Professional Credential from AFP
(April 8, 2009) The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), the largest community of professional fundraisers in the world, has awarded its highest professional certification, the Advanced Certified Fundraising Executive (ACFRE), to Philip G. Schumacher of Winona, Minnesota.

AFP eWire Skill Builder Printable Version: April 6, 2009
The printable version of AFP's new eWire Skill Builder newsletter for the week of April 6-10, 2009.

Nonprofit Leaders Containing Costs, Retaining Staff
(April 6, 2009) Despite the tough economic times, many nonprofit organizations are taking steps to shore up their bottom line without sacrificing their missions—and their leaders are treating layoffs as a last resort, a survey shows.

Photo Gallery ~ AFP 46th International Conference on Fundraising (Awards Banquet)
Photos from the Awards Banquet.

Photo Gallery ~ AFP 46th International Conference on Fundraising-Tuesday
Photos from Tuesday, March 31, 2009

AFP eWire Printable Version: March 31, 2009
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of March 31-April 3, 2009.

AFP Honors Top National Donors and Volunteers for 2009
(March 31, 2009) Maryland businessman John Erickson, AT&T and the Greater New Orleans Foundation are just some of the recipients of the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ (AFP) annual international Awards for Philanthropy.

Photo Gallery ~ AFP 46th International Conference on Fundraising-Monday
Photos from Monday, March 30, 2009

Photo Gallery ~ AFP 46th International Conference on Fundraising-Sunday
Photos from Sunday, March 29, 2009

 

AFP eWire Printable Version: March 23, 2009
The printable version of AFP's award-winning newsletter, eWire, for the week of March 23-27, 2009.

Innovative Planned Gift to AFP Foundation Yields Big Returns
(March 23, 2009) Lifelong friends and business partners, Marc S. Saffren, CFRE, and Michael J. Baker, CFRE, have joined the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy’s Omega Circle. They teamed up to make a large gift of Joint Life Protection Insurance.

AFP Offers Fundraising Tips, Guidance in Difficult Economic Times
(March 23, 2009) AFP has developed a new guidance document that contains tips and advice for charities trying to raise funds in the current economic environment.

Spring 2009 Public Policy Update
The Spring 2009 Public Policy Update includes a story about the proposal in the President’s budget that would limit charitable deductions for the wealthy, a wrap-up of the nonprofit hospital provision in the economic stimulus package, a copy of the IRA Rollover fact sheet and a story on the IRA mandatory distribution rule that has been waived for 2009. 

In addition, the update contains the latest news on the Canada Revenue Agency’s fundraising policy; the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications telemarketing rules; posted advertisements submitted by a Canadian coalition, including AFP; and the reintroduced National Philanthropy Day legislation.

AFP Information Exchange Papers - Suggested Topics
If you’re interested in writing and want to help your colleagues and give back to the profession, consider developing a short information paper for the new AFP Information Exchange, part of AFP’s Fundraising Resource Center.

The AFP Information Exchange
If you’re interested in writing and want to help your colleagues and give back to the profession, consider developing a short information paper for the new AFP Information Exchange, part of AFP’s Fundraising Resource Center.

AFP Member Testimonials
"My membership not only keeps my skills sharp, it benefits the organization as well!"

AFP Member Testimonials


Nominations Still Open for Campbell & Company Awards for Excellence in Fundraising


Capital Campaigns: The Benefits of a Feasibility Study
Conducting a feasibility study for a capital campaign offers rewards far beyond simply assessing risk. If well executed, such a study can provide focus and momentum for the entire campaign.

Capital Campaigns: Getting the Word Out
Many organizations ignore the public relations plan during a capital campaign, but a capital campaign is the perfect time to tell your organization’s story and tell it well, says fundraising veteran Robert Crandall, CFRE.

Are You Ready for a Capital Campaign?
eWire contributing writer Ted Grossnickle shares his experiences working with nonprofit clients who are preparing to conduct a capital campaign. Grossnickle is chairman of Achieve, a nonprofit consulting firm in Indianapolis.

Fundraisers Report Tough Times—Expect Some Improvement by Year End
Fundraisers are finding the current giving environment extremely challenging, but expect some improvement for the second half of 2009.

AFP Now on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and ammado!
Now you can get in touch with AFP and fellow members with four popular social networking sites: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and ammado. Get interesting and fun updates about AFP and fellow members and connect with fundraisers from around the world!

Spreading the Wealth: Florida Chapter Brings Two Others to Life
AFP welcomes its newest chapter—the AFP Florida, Greater Polk County Chapter. It is the second new chapter this year to be formed with the guidance of the AFP Florida, Suncoast Chapter.

Noviembre 2008


Readers Respond to Helmsley’s Historic Bequest
(March 16, 2009) AFP eWire recently asked for reader feedback about the use of Leona Helmsley’s $5.2 billion bequest and the ramifications for donor intent. Here is what members had to say.

AFP, The Globe and Mail Create 'A Time to Give'
(March 9, 2009) AFP is continuing its partnership with The Globe and Mail through a special June 27 philanthropy supplement entitled “A Time to Give.”

New Obama Plan Would Reduce Charitable Deductions for Wealthy
(March 2, 2009) President Obama proposed limiting the value of the tax break for itemized deductions, including donations to charity, to 28 percent for families making more than $250,000.

Maehara, Brown Named Among Fundraising’s Best
(Feb. 17, 2009) The NonProfit Times has named 14 people who it feels are the most effective and influential fundraisers in the industry. AFP President and CEO Paulette Maehara, recent past-chair Alphonce Brown and AFP member Atul Tandon are in this esteemed group.

Important Notice: Congress Puts Healthcare Fundraising in Jeopardy
(Feb. 9, 2009) A troubling provision in the House-passed economic stimulus package (the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009) would prevent hospital foundations from contacting prior patients and asking for donations.

Federal Cabinet Rejects Appeal By Charities Regarding Do Not Call List
(Feb. 2, 2009) Canada’s federal cabinet has rejected a joint petition filed by AFP and Imagine Canada that would have exempted charities from red tape and fees associated with the new National Do Not Call list.

Corporate Giving in Flux, But Not Disappearing, Study Shows
(Feb. 2, 2009) Though corporate giving levels are predicted to decrease in 2009, many corporations and corporate foundations are holding steady in the amount they plan to give.

A Letter from the President and CEO
As we ring in the New Year in these challenging economic times, I wanted to send a note of encouragement and sincere gratitude for the vital work you do as a professional fundraiser.

Fundraisers See Chilly Giving Climate Now and in Future
(Jan. 5, 2008) The fundraising climate is the toughest it’s been since 1998, according to the Indiana University Center on Philanthropy’s most recent Philanthropic Giving Index.

Charity Fundraising Efforts Lagging Significantly This Holiday Season
(Dec. 19, 2008) More than half of charities across North America are raising less money during the 2008 holiday giving season (October through December) than they did last year, according to a survey conducted by AFP.

2008-2009 AWARD HONOREES

As part of its 2008-2009 awards program, AFP is proud to honor the following individuals and organizations for their work in advancing philanthropy and ethical and effective fundraising.

AFP Foundation Takes Fundraising to New Heights
Your contribution to the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy goes directly to funding scholarships, groundbreaking research and other programs and activities that further AFP’s mission to advance ethical and effective fundraising.

AFP Aloha Chapter Issues 2008 State of Fundraising Report for Hawaii
(Nov. 25, 2008) The AFP-Aloha Chapter, in collaboration with the Hawaii Association of Independent Schools, Hawaii Alliance of Nonprofit Organizations, and Olomana Marketing, conducted an assessment of the impact of the financial crisis on nonprofit organizations in Hawaii and to understand how nonprofits are managing the situation within their organizations.

A Message from the President and CEO
We at the Association of Fundraising Professionals want to share our sincere gratitude to you for choosing AFP as your professional association.

Job Postings

Job Postings

Median Dollar Amount of Gifts Over $1 Million Unchanged Since 2000
(Nov. 17, 2008) New research into gifts of $1 million or more shows that a key indicator of giving—median gift amount—has not changed so far this decade. The study contains other key benchmarks for giving, including breakdown by sector and source of donor wealth.

AFP Canadian Council and Canada Foundation Officers Named
(Nov. 10, 2008) Based on member nominations, the 2009 slate of officers for the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy – Canada and the AFP Canadian Council has been approved.

Membership Survey Yields Strong Loyalty and Goals for the Future
(Nov. 3, 2008) Results of AFP’s Member Satisfaction Survey show that three-quarters of members surveyed are satisfied with their membership overall, and half of the survey respondents are highly satisfied.

Members Share Insights on Nonprofit CEO Salaries
(Nov. 3, 2008) In a recent issue, eWire asked readers if they thought nonprofit CEOs are paid too much. Our respondents didn’t think so—up to a point anyway.

Consumers Respond Positively to Cause-related Marketing
(Nov. 3, 2008) Companies are increasingly forming partnerships with nonprofits and supporting causes to help strengthen their brand in the eyes of customers. Research shows that people are more likely to buy products from companies that associate themselves with a cause.

Giving Incentives Top List of Charity Public Policy Priorities
(Oct. 27, 2008) A survey of charity leaders across the U.S. found that increasing tax incentives for individual charitable giving was ranked as their highest public policy priority for 2009 and beyond.

Strategies for Overcoming the Global Financial Crisis
(Oct. 27, 2008) Nearly 100 leading fundraisers from around the world have provided new strategies and tactics for charities to survive and prosper in the current global financial crisis.

Make Time for Innovation
(Oct. 14, 2008) In fundraising and the nonprofit sector as a whole, the sky is the limit for new ideas and better methods. But the trick, say the authors of a recent W.K. Kellogg Foundation report, is to incorporate a culture of systematic innovation, so you are not waiting around for new ideas to strike like lightning—randomly and unpredictably.

IRA Rollover Provision Reinstated Through 2009
(Oct. 3, 2008) President Bush has signed into law the $700 billion economic bailout bill (H.R. 1424, Financial Rescue Package), which includes a two-year extension of the IRA Rollover provision as well as other charitable giving provisions.

AFP Charters Southern New Jersey Chapter
(Oct. 6, 2008) Earlier this year, the AFP board of directors approved the creation of the New Jersey, Southern Chapter, based in Atlantic City.

AFP Funded Research: Instilling a Culture of Giving Among Alumni
(Oct. 6, 2008) How can institutions of higher education cultivate generous alumni? Instill a focus on philanthropy and "giving back" while they are students, explains Noah D. Drezner, Ph.D., based on his study of African-American alumni giving to historically black colleges and universities.

Tips and Tricks: Boost Careers with a Thriving Chapter Mentor Program
(Sept. 29, 2008) Professional peer mentoring can be a rewarding experience and a great addition to your chapter programs. AFP members share some valuable advice for starting up or reinvigorating your chapter’s mentoring program.

IRS Issues Revised Instructions on New Form 990
(Sept. 15, 2008) The IRS has released revised instructions and supplementary materials for completing the redesigned IRS Form 990.

Maehara Among The NonProfit Times’ “Power and Influence Top 50”
(Sept. 8, 2008) For the tenth consecutive year, Paulette Maehara, CFRE, CAE, president and CEO of AFP, was named to The Nonprofit Times’ annual “Power and Influence Top 50” list.

AFP Seeks Volunteers to Help Streamline Grant Making Processes
(Aug. 18, 2008) Are you drowning in grant-application paperwork and distracted from purpose? Project Streamline aims to make the process easier and more effective, and AFP is seeking interested volunteers to provide feedback on a new study and help develop next steps.

New National Philanthropy Day® Materials Available
(Aug. 11, 2008) A number of additions, enhancements and revisions have been made to AFP’s program to support National Philanthropy Day® (NPD) chapter events.

Most Nonprofits Devote Little Resources to Advocacy
(Aug. 11, 2008) A recent survey of lobbying and advocacy activity by nonprofits shows that while many organizations are involved in policy advocacy, relatively little time, attention or resources are spent on the activity, hindering deeper policy involvement.

Giving to Education Causes Expected to Grow More Slowly
(Aug. 11, 2008) Giving to education in the United States is expected to grow in the coming year, but at a much slower rate, according to the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE).

Reach New Heights as a Nonprofit Leader!
(August 4, 2008) Are you a nonprofit manager looking to build your leadership and business skills? Why not learn from the best? AFP and Stanford Social Innovation Review have teamed up for the third year in a row to connect nonprofit managers to leading experts and professors from the Stanford Graduate School of Business.

Volunteering Up, Dropout Rate Still High
(Aug. 4, 2008) Retaining donors is not the only challenge nonprofits face. A recent study shows that retention rates for volunteers are nearly as daunting.

Marketing Your Nonprofit: Winning Taglines
(July 28, 2008) “Just because you’re a small nonprofit doesn’t mean you can’t have a powerful tagline for your organization, program or campaign,” says nonprofit marketing expert and blogger Nancy E. Schwartz.

Fundraisers Brace for a Challenging Giving Climate
(July 28, 2008) Fundraisers say the economy is having negative effect on giving and are also tempering their expectations for the future, according to a recent survey of fundraisers’ attitudes about the economy and giving.

Pay to College Fundraisers, Staff Shows Strong Growth
(July 21, 2008) Salaries of fundraisers at U.S. colleges and universities have seen strong growth in recent years, according to a survey conducted by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE).

AFP Responds to L.A. Times Report on Fundraising Inefficiencies
(July 14, 2008) The Los Angeles Times published a story on Sunday, July 6, reporting that only a small percentage of money reaches California nonprofits when they use a for-profit fundraising company to raise funds.

In Weak Economy Loyalty is Stable Currency
(July 14, 2008) Fundraising revenues and donor counts are both down for the first quarter of 2008 compared to the same time last year, reports the Target Analytics Index of National Fundraising Performance.

Successful Faculty Training Academy Held in Minneapolis
(July 14, 2008) Thirty-three participants completed AFP’s 2½-day Faculty Training Academy (FTA) held June 11-13 at the University of Saint Thomas in Minneapolis, Minn.

Alaskans Given Option to Increase Giving
(July 14, 2008) A new law will allow Alaska residents the opportunity to donate to charity some or all of the money they receive annually from the state’s Permanent Fund that was created from Alaska’s oil revenues.

U.S. Charitable Giving Surpassed $300 Billion in 2007
(June 23, 2008) Charitable giving in the United States reached a record high of $306.39 billion, up 3.9 percent from 2006, according to Giving USA 2008.

Greater Toronto Chapter Markets ACFRE Program
(June 23, 2008) The AFP Greater Toronto Chapter is developing a marketing program to encourage members to work towards earning the Advanced Certified Fundraising Executive (ACFRE) credential.

Press Releases and Media Advisories


NPD Proclamations


Awards: Sample Judging Guidelines


Printed Materials


Getting Started/Logistics


AFP Co-Hosts Summit to Strengthen Canadian Nonprofit Sector
(June 16, 2008) On May 27, the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Volunteer Canada and Imagine Canada came together to host The Summit, an event that brought together nearly 250 nonprofit leaders with the aim of identifying practical ways to build a more sustainable charitable and nonprofit sector in Canada.

Seeing Eye-to-Eye with Your Donor's Financial Adviser
(May 27, 2008) Fundraisers at times find themselves at odds with financial advisers over the type or amount of a gift that is to be made by a donor. But there are ways to collaborate with a financial adviser to fulfill the donor's goals of having a solid financial plan and making a lasting contribution to a favorite charity.

Roles & Responsibilities: Sample job descriptions for board officers & chapter administrators
Most AFP chapter boards are similar in that they have board members responsible for membership, education, etc.  This page provides sample job descriptions for the most common positions.

Nominations Open for the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy Board
Nominations are currently being accepted for individuals interested in serving on the board of directors of the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy.

Advice to Grant Seekers: Never Believe Your Own PR
(May 19, 2008) It’s a phrase we’ve all heard, but Karen Levin, executive director of the Levin Family Foundation in Dayton Ohio, says grant seekers should remember to bring their data and a level head—not a sales pitch—when they approach a foundation for grant money. Leave the public relations brochures at home

Millennials Are No Less Generous than Other Generations
(May 19, 2008) Prior research shows that young donors in the Millennial generation (born after 1981) are less likely to give and tend to give in smaller amounts than other generations. But according to a recent study, the trend is not generational, but rather a function of young people’s income, education level and religious attendance.

Model/Sample Chapter Communications Plan
Model/Sample Chapter Communications Plan

Mixed Results on Growth in Foundation Diversity
(May 12, 2008) A new report reveals that foundation diversity has increased significantly in some areas, including board and staff composition, but there continues to be problems in others, such as funding to diverse organizations.

Plugging into Technology and Energizing Volunteers
(June 2, 2008) An eleven-fold increase in revenue from its annual fundraising event earned Camp Oochigeas the 2008 Campbell & Company Award for Excellence, Small Category. Here’s how the camp did it.

AFP Web/Audioconference On-Demand Collection
hidden - AFP Web/Audioconference On-Demand Collection

National Philanthropy Day® Bill Set for Consideration by Canadian Senate
(April 21, 2008) A bill to create a government-recognized and sponsored National Philanthropy Day® in Canada has been approved by a Senate committee and could be voted upon in the next couple of weeks.

AFP Grows to 30,000 Members
AFP is pleased to announce that its membership has now surpassed 30,000 fundraisers.

Foundation Releases Spring 2008 Edition of The Steward
(Apr. 7, 2008) The AFP Foundation for Philanthropy, fresh off an historic fundraising year, has released its Spring 2008 edition of The Steward—its newsletter for supporters and friends.

Economy Slows Charitable Giving, Fundraising in 2007
Success Rates Still High, But Gains Much Lower Than 2006
(April 1, 2008) While almost two-thirds of charities raised more money in 2007 than they did in 2006, the size of those gain dropped dramatically, according to figures released by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) at its 45^th International Conference on Fundraising in San Diego, Calif. 

The Science of Fundraising: Questioning Fundraising’s ‘Inefficiencies’
(March 17, 2008) Can academic studies help fundraisers better meet their bottom line? As researchers begin to examine the science of fundraising, it seems the answer could be yes, according to a recent article in The New York Times Magazine.

Donor Retention Resources
Books, articles, audiotapes and links to help you find the best information available on donor retention and donor attrition.

January/February 2008 Public Policy Update
AFP’s 2008 January-February Public Policy Update includes an update on the IRA Rollover provision, new information on the IRS’ Form 990 redesign and a summary of recent House hearings on Veterans’ Charities.

The update also includes stories about the creation of a panel to support a government-recognized National Philanthropy Day in Canada before the Senate Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology and the CRTC’s efforts to finalize its telemarketing rules.  

Biggest Pressure for Future Nonprofit Leaders: Fundraising
(March 10, 2007) Fundraising is the primary reason many potential charity leaders of the future are not interested in being executive directors, according to new research that continues to underscore a future leadership gap for the sector.

Giving to U.S. Colleges and Universities on the Rise, Especially Among Wealthiest Schools
(March 3, 2008) Charitable giving to colleges and universities was up in 2007 by 6.3 percent to $29.75 billion, according to a recent study by the Council for Aid to Education.

New Resource Released for Youth in Philanthropy Programs
(March 3, 2008) A valuable new report that details outcomes and recommendations from the November 2006 Youth in Philanthropy Summit is now available on the AFP website.

Corporate Giving Increases, But Road Ahead Uncertain
(Feb. 25, 2008) A recent report shows that charitable giving by major U.S. corporations and corporate foundations to charities, both domestic and abroad, increased in 2006 to $10.2 billion. What do the numbers and trends mean for charities in the near future?

AFP Announces 2008 Awards for Philanthropy Honorees
(Feb. 4, 2008) Texas oil and gas entrepreneur and philanthropist T. Boone Pickens is just one of the recipients of AFP’s 2008 Awards for Philanthropy, which recognize individuals and organizations for their extraordinary generosity, innovation and leadership in all aspects of philanthropy around the world.

States Seeking to Protect Donor Privacy as Anonymous Gifts Increase
(Jan. 21, 2008) Anonymous giving is suddenly in the spotlight as a new study shows an increase in major gifts made anonymously, while several states are moving to protect donor privacy.

2008 AFP Foundation Board
2008 AFP Foundation Officers and Board of Directors.

Some Fundraising Concerns Addressed in New Form 990
(Jan. 14, 2008) The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) released a redesigned version of the Form 990 in late 2007 that addresses many of the concerns raised by AFP and other fundraising organizations.

2007 Year End Public Policy Update
AFP’s 2007 Year End Public Policy Update includes an update on the IRA Rollover provision and information on the IRS’ recently released Form 990 redesign.

The update also includes stories on AFP’s comments to Canada’s Accountability Reference Group regarding its recent discussion paper and AFP’s comments on the Canada Revenue Agency’s proposed new Form T3010.  

Mega-Gift Donors Focusing on Higher Education
(Jan. 7, 2008) Higher education receives nearly half of all major and mega-gifts, according to new research by the San Francisco-based Institute for Jewish and Community Research (IJCR).

House Panel Probes Fundraising by Veteran’s Charities
(Dec. 17, 2007) Allegations of ineffective and inefficient fundraising, as well as misuse of funds raised, have been directed at charities that serve military veterans in the wake of a Dec. 13 hearing held by the House of Representatives’ Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

AFP Co-Founder William R. “Bill” Simms Passes Away
(Dec. 17, 2007) William R. “Bill” Simms, the last surviving co-founder of AFP and a key figure in the civil rights movement, passed away on Friday, Dec. 7, while visiting his son in New Mexico. He was 94.

Majority of Households Give, But Still Many are Not Consistent
(Dec. 10, 2007) A majority of U.S. households give to charity consistently every year, but almost three in ten shift every year between giving and not giving, according to a new survey conducted by the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University.

Give Back to the Profession: Become a Teacher and Trainer!
(Dec. 3, 2007) There’s no better way to give back to the fundraising profession than through teaching and training others in the field. And now experienced fundraisers have that opportunity, as nominations are being sought for AFP’s fifth Faculty Training Academy, to be held June 11–13, 2008, in Minneapolis.

CRA Cracking Down on Compliance, Enforcement of Form T3010A
(Dec. 3, 2007) The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has indicated it will be cracking down on registered charities that either file their Forms T3010A late or not at all; at the same time, it also is providing increased guidance on how organizations can comply with these requirements.

2007 Donations Good So Far, But What About the Holidays?
(Dec. 3, 2007) A new survey shows that giving in the first nine months of 2007 was strong, with very similar results to figures in 2006. However, will the U.S. housing crisis and overall economic conditions across North America affect giving in the last quarter of the year?

National Philanthropy Day® Celebrated Across North America
(Nov. 19, 2007) More than 50,000 people in 125 events across North America celebrated the 22nd anniversary of National Philanthropy Day®(NPD), which recognizes and pays tribute to the extraordinary contributions that charitable giving and volunteerism have made to society.

AFP 2008 Webconferences
Look ahead to a great year with 18 AFP Webconferences spanning a wide range of topics.  Here is your opportunity to interact directly with a great lineup of fundraising experts.

Giving Environment Strong, Steady While Online Success Grows
(Nov. 12, 2007) The giving environment remains very positive, with significant growth in online fundraising, as charities enter the critical end-of-year giving season, according to the latest Philanthropic Giving Index (PGI) published by the Indianapolis-based Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University.

Senate Considering Nonprofit Hospital Reforms
(Nov. 5, 2007) Republican staff for the Senate Finance Committee has developed a series of proposed reforms related to governance, meeting community needs and levels of charitable care.

Healthcare Giving Still Strong, but Slowing
(Oct. 29, 2007) Although giving to healthcare facilities and organizations increased in 2006, the rate of growth was substantially lower than in 2005, according to a report by the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy (AHP) in Falls Church, Va.

Chapter Leaders Gather at Leadership Academy
(Oct. 22, 2007) More than 220 AFP chapter leaders discussed leadership issues and the future of the association at the inaugural Leadership Academy in Lexington, Ky., Oct. 11-13.

Foundation Board Selects Leaders for 2008
(Oct. 22, 2007) Paul J. Strawhecker, MPA, ACFRE, was elected to serve a second one-year term as chair of the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy.

Four New Chapters Chartered at Leadership Academy
(Oct. 22, 2007) AFP chartered four more chapters at its recent board meetings and Leadership Academy in Lexington, Ky., bringing the total number of association chapters to 196.

AFP Foundation for Philanthropy Announces Slate of 2008 Leaders
(Oct. 1, 2007) The AFP Foundation for Philanthropy has announced its slate of officers and directors, led by Paul J. Strawhecker, MPA, ACFRE, nominated for election for the term beginning Jan 1, 2008.

Congress Debating the Value of Certain Charitable Causes
(Oct. 1, 2007) A recent congressional hearing about whether or not charities are doing enough to serve poor and diverse communities included concerns about whether contributions to certain nonprofits should be treated the same for tax and deduction purposes.

New Organization to Help Higher Ed Donors Attach Strings to Gifts
(Sept. 24, 2007) Citing concerns over accountability and donor intent, three foundations have created a nonprofit group that will assist donors in attaching legally enforceable conditions to their gifts to colleges and universities.

AFP Foundation Receives Grant for 2008 Think Tank
(Sept. 17, 2007) The AFP Foundation for Philanthropy has received almost $50,000 from the Edyth Bush Charitable Foundation in Winter Park, Fla., to support the 2008 AFP Fundraising Think Tank, a project of the AFP Research Council.

AFP Submits Comments on Revised Form 990
(Sept. 17, 2007) The new draft Form 990’s increased reliance on simplistic percentages and its expansion into the areas of governance and best practices will tend to mislead donors and create significant problems for charities, according to comments submitted by AFP.

New Charitable Regulations Not High Priority for Finance Chair
(Aug. 20, 2007) The chair of the Senate Finance Committee, Sen. Max Baucus (D-Mont.) recently told The Chronicle of Philanthropy that enacting new charitable reforms is not high on his priority list.

AFP Urges Canadian Parliament to Increase Charitable Giving Incentives
(Aug. 20, 2007) For the seventh consecutive year, AFP appeared before the Standing Committee on Finance during its annual Pre-Budget Consultations, calling for the creation of a government-recognized National Philanthropy Day® and the elimination of the capital gains tax on gifts of land and real estate.

AFP Foundation for Philanthropy-Canada Provides Programming Beyond the Association
(Aug. 13, 2007) The work of the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy - Canada provides programs that often go beyond what the association can support, making additional services available for fundraisers across Canada in the areas of education, scholarships, mentoring, translation and research.

New Survey Finds Lack of Outreach to “Grateful” Patients
(Aug. 13, 2007) Almost 40 percent of fundraisers in health institutions do not consider outreach to past or “grateful” patients to be an important component of their work, and 20 percent make no effort to contact them at all, according to a new survey by Grizzard and the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy (AHP).

Giving Priorities Tied to Income
(Aug. 6, 2007) Lower- and middle-income donors are far more likely to give to charities that benefit the poor than are upper-income households, according to a study conducted by the Indiana University Center on Philanthropy in Indianapolis, and financed by Google, based in Mountain View, Calif.

Maehara Named to The NonProfit Times’ Annual “Power and Influence Top 50”
(Aug. 6, 2007) For the ninth consecutive year, Paulette Maehara, CFRE, CAE, president and CEO of AFP, was named to The Nonprofit Times’ annual “2007 Power and Influence Top 50."

NYU School of Continuing & Professional Studies
NYU School of Continuing & Professional Studies

New Louisiana Chapter Chartered at AFP Summer Board Meetings
(July 30, 2007) During its recent summer board meeting in San Diego, the AFP board of directors approved the creation of the AFP Louisiana, Northshore-Florida Parishes Chapter, located in Covington, La.

AFP State of Fundraising 2006 Final Report Released
(July 16, 2007) The final report of AFP's State of Fundraising 2006 Survey is now available for members only in the Member Gateway section (log-in required to access the link below).

Charities Exempt from Do-Not-Call List, But Subject to Other Telemarketing Requirements
(Aug. 13, 2007) The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commissions (CRTC) has exempted charities from a national do-not-call list, but has made them subject to other requirements under its telemarketing rules.

AFP State of Fundraising 2006 Final Report Released
(July 16, 2007) The final report of AFP's State of Fundraising 2006 Survey is now available online in the Attachments section below (PDF format).

Outstanding Fundraising Professional
Outstanding Fundraising Professional Nominations

EMC Advantage Calling Program Begins Sixth Year
(July 2, 2007) The Every Member Campaign (EMC) is surging forward, thanks in part to the EMC Advantage Calling Program. Callers from Advantage Consulting in Fairfield, N.J., and Las Vegas began contacting AFP chapter members last week for commitments to the 2007 Every Member Campaign.

First Fundraising Effectiveness Survey Report Published
(July 2, 2007) A new report can help charities identify areas of improvement in their fundraising, such as donor retention, by comparing gains and loss in a number of different categories.

Abel Hanson Award Highlights Best in Chapter Communications
(July 2, 2007) The AFP Ontario, Greater Toronto Chapter and the AFP Ohio, North Central Chapter were recipients of the 2006 Abel Hanson Awards, which honor a chapter’s work in providing outstanding communications to members and the public.

U.S. Charitable Giving Surges Near $300 Billion in 2006
(June 25, 2007) Charitable giving in the United States reached a record high of $295.02 billion, and most subsectors saw increases in contributions, according to Giving USA 2007.

Fundraisers More Committed to Causes Than Organizations?
(June 18, 2007) Fundraisers might be more committed to the causes their organizations serve than the organizations themselves, according to new research sponsored by the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy.

Finance Committee Calls for Updated, More Extensive Form 990
(June 4, 2007) Sens. Max Baucus (D-Mont.) and Charles Grassley (R-Iowa), the chair and ranking member of the Finance Committee respectively, have asked the U.S. Department of the Treasury to update the Form 990, the annual charity reporting form, and include more information about fundraising.

Charities May Receive Small, Temporary Break on Certain Postage Rates
(June 4, 2007) The Postal Regulatory Commission has recommended that certain nonprofit rates be reduced for four months until the significant postage increases for standard mail flats come into effect in September.

Applications Now Being Accepted for Ernest W. Wood Fellowship
(June 1, 2007) The Indiana University Center on Philanthropy and the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy are inviting applications for the 2007 Ernest W. Wood Fellowship.  The fellowship provides up to $10,000 to a Doctoral student in the U.S. or Canada pursuing a dissertation related to fundraising and research.

Corporate Giving Reaches Milestone Independent of Disaster Relief
(May 21, 2007) Corporate foundations gave a record $4.2 billion in 2006, and 57 percent say they expect to give more in 2007, according to a new report.

Chapter Boards Lead by Example, Achieve 100 Percent Participation in EMC
(May 7, 2007) Twenty-seven AFP chapters have led by example and achieved 100 percent board participation in the 2007 Every Member Campaign (EMC). These chapter boards serve as motivation and inspiration to chapter members to make their gifts to the EMC.

Identifying Characteristics of Planned-Giving Prospects
(May 7, 2007) Few individuals have a charity named in their will, but those most likely to consider a bequest are aged 40 to 60 and have a bachelor’s degree, according to a new study.

Most Giving Doesn’t Necessarily Help Those in Need
(Apr. 30, 2007) A new study commissioned by Google.org and conducted by the Indiana University Center on Philanthropy argues that less than one-third of all charitable giving is directed toward the poor and others in need.

Action Needed to Delay New Postage Increases
(Apr. 30, 2007) All U.S. AFP members are asked to send letters to their members of Congress to delay implementation of a new mailing category, not flat-machinable (NFM) mail pieces, that could increase postage costs by 100 to 400 percent for some charities.

Focus on Donor Retention, Not Acquisition
(Apr. 23, 2007) A new AFP-sponsored study shows that while charities are effective in attracting new donors, improvements in donor retention could affect their fundraising revenue dramatically.

Four New AFP Chapters Chartered
(Apr. 23, 2007) The AFP board of directors approved the creation of four new chapters at its recent meeting in Dallas, including two chapters in Mexico.

Foundation’s Spring 2007 Newsletter Released
(Apr. 16, 2007) AFP Foundation for Philanthropy has released the Spring 2007 edition of its semi-annual newsletter The Steward that features articles illustrating the foundation’s growth and its commitment to supporting AFP chapters.

Mid-April Deadline for Canada Revenue Agency Roadshows
(April 9, 2007) The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is once again offering its popular and informative Roadshows in 2007. If you are interested in attending one of the events, the deadline is April 20.

Two New ACFREs Honored at AFP International Conference
(April 9, 2007) Pamela Cook and Ken Frisch were honored at the recent AFP International Conference on Fundraising in Dallas as the 79th and 80th fundraisers in the world to earn the Advanced Certified Fund Raising Executive (ACFRE) credential.

Lance Armstrong: A Different Journey
(March 27, 2007) At the Tuesday morning Gurin Lecture on Philanthropy at the AFP International Conference on Fundraising, Lance Armstrong discussed how in 1996, while ranked as the number one cyclist in the world, he began an entirely new, unexpected and improbable journey.

Canadian Budget Reflects Increased Understanding, Support for Philanthropy
(April 2, 2007) The recently proposed Canadian federal budget for Fiscal Year 2008 includes an extension of the elimination of the capital gains tax on gifts of appreciated securities to include private foundations.

There Will Be a Minga!
(March 27, 2007) If you have ever had any doubts about the value of youth in philanthropy, Craig Kielburger is living proof that one is never too young to become a philanthropist and activist.

Born in Thornhill, Ontario, Canada, Kielburger was just 12 years old when he happened to see an article in the newspaper that would have a profound effect. He read about another 12-year-old boy on the other side of the world who had been murdered near his home in Pakistan. The young boy had been abandoned at age four and sent to work in a carpet factory, weaving rugs that would eventually end up in countries such as Canada and the United States.


Charities See Significant Fundraising Increases in 2006
(March 26, 2007) Nearly seven in ten charities raised more money in 2006 compared to 2005, and almost a quarter of charities saw fundraising increases of 50 percent or higher, according to figures released by the Association of Fundraising Professional (AFP) at the 44th AFP International Conference on Fundraising in Dallas, Texas.

Howdy! The 44th AFP International Conference on Fundraising Begins in Dallas!
Texas—it’s like a whole other country. At least that’s what any Texan will say. This year, March 25–28, nearly 4,000 professional fundraisers—from Texas and other states, provinces and countries—have made Dallas their world.

Marc Chardon, the president and chief executive officer of Blackbaud, the full sponsor of this year’s conference, and Cheryl Reynolds, chair of the Dallas Host Committee, welcomed the enthusiastic crowd.

Dallas-Area Students’ Artwork Recognized
 (March 25, 2007) At this year’s AFP International Conference on Fundraising, the Diversity Art Showcase, sponsored by The Alford Group, features artwork by students from the Dallas area who attend The Oakridge School in Arlington, Texas, a private school whose student body includes students from 12 foreign countries. The artwork was selected by AFP, and a panel of judges determined the first-, second- and third-place winners, as well as those receiving honorable mention.

The Power of Passion
(March 25, 2007) Actress and activist Brooke Shields knows a thing or two about the power of celebrity. After all, she has spent nearly her entire life in front of a camera and in the public eye. What she has gradually come to know, however, is the power of passion.

At the Opening Plenary Session on Sunday, Shields spoke candidly and from the heart, displaying none of the “diva” qualities one would expect from someone who has been acting and modeling since she was only 11 months old. As she explained, this is due to the choices she has made along the way. 

The AFP Diversity Summit
Follow this link for a summary of the AFP Diversity Summit of 2005.  This includes information on how to form a new Diverse Community in Fundraising. 

Board Resolution on Diversity
Follow this link to read the Board of Directors' resolution.

AFP Chapters Honor Local Professional Fundraisers
(March 19, 2007) AFP is pleased to present the list of members who were honored by their local chapters as outstanding fundraising professionals during 2006.

Charities Facing Major Rate Increases for Front-End Premiums and Cards
(March 5, 2007) The United States Postal Service (USPS) has proposed a new standard rate Not Flat-Machinable (NFM) category that could subject charities to mailing rate increases of 100 to 400 percent for front-end premiums and cards, according to the Direct Mail Association Nonprofit Federation (DMANF).

Corporate Contributions Up 14 Percent in 2005
(March 5, 2007) Companies were significantly more generous in 2005 compared to 2004, with the average dollar value of contributions increasing by 14 percent, according to a new report by the Committee Encouraging Corporate Philanthropy (CECP).

2007 Paschal Murray Award for Outstanding Philanthropist


2007 William R. Simms Award for Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy, Ages 18–23


Chair’s Award for Outstanding Service


2007 Community Counselling Service (CCS) Award for Outstanding Fundraising Professional


2007 Award for Outstanding Corporation


2007 Award for Outstanding Foundation


AFP Honors Top Donors and Volunteers For 2007
(Feb. 5, 2007) AFP has announced the winners of its 2007 Awards for Philanthropy, which honor individuals and organizations that through their tireless work and dedication to philanthropy have improved dramatically the quality of life in their communities and around the world.

IRS Offers New Online Training for Nonprofits
(Jan. 29, 2007) The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has developed a new website that offers online training in five key issues related to nonprofit operations, including unrelated business income and the Form 990.

2006-2007 AFP Award Honorees
As part of its 2006-2007 awards program, AFP is proud to honor the following individuals and organizations for their work in advancing philanthropy and ethical and effective fundraising.

Resources for AFP Members Who Teach in Colleges and Universities
(Jan. 8, 2007) AFP has developed new educational materials to assist those AFP members who teach fundraising and nonprofit management programs in seminars and institutions of higher education.

2006 Year-End Public Policy Update
AFP's 2006 Year-End Public Policy Update includes a post-election summary, a description of an upcoming ethics reform package and a call for input regarding potential charitable reforms on the state level.

The update also includes new information on the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission’s efforts to implement the federal Do Not Call List and a proposal by Imagine Canada that seeks to enhance the partnership between the federal government and the nonprofit sector.



Uplifting a People
Author discusses her book, Uplifting a People

Career Track
Career Track

AFP Thanks CCS for Sponsoring Kaleidoscope
AFP Thanks CCS for Sponsoring Kaleidoscope

Exploring Philanthropy in China
Exploring Philanthropy in China

Planned Giving in the Black Church
Planned Giving in the Black Church

Thought Leader Column
Thought Leader Column by AFP Chair Alphonce J. Brown Jr., ACFRE

If Not I, Then Who?

Foundation Publishes The Steward for Fall 2006
(Dec. 18, 2006) AFP Foundation for Philanthropy has released the Fall 2006 issue of its semi-annual newsletter The Steward, which features articles on the Strategic Initiatives major-gifts program, endowment funds and new Omega Circle donors.

Resources for AFP Members Who Teach in Colleges and Universities
Matrices, exercises, case studies and puzzles for use by college and university teachers.

Foundation Jump-Starts Diversity Programs
(Dec. 11, 2006) The AFP Foundation for Philanthropy has secured funding for three significant initiatives related to diversity within the fundraising profession, one of the key goals for AFP and the foundation.

Stability for Philanthropic Giving Index, Confusion Over the IRA Rollover
(Dec. 11, 2006) The fundraising climate has stabilized over the past year, but charities have seen only limited success so far with the new Individual Retirement Account (IRA) rollover provision, according to the latest Philanthropic Giving Index (PGI) produced by the Indiana University Center on Philanthropy.

Increased Gifts, Participation Highlight 2006 Chapter Treasury Campaign
(Dec. 4, 2006) Chapters still have time to make a commitment to the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy’s Chapter Treasury Campaign, which has already experienced steady growth this year.

Strawhecker to Lead Experienced Foundation Team in 2007
(Nov. 13, 2006) Paul J. Strawhecker, MPA, ACFRE, will lead the Executive Committee of the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy in 2007.

Election Impact Uncertain on Fundraising and Philanthropy
(Nov. 13, 2006) As widely predicted in the media, this month’s elections resulted in a wave of support for Democrats at the federal level, but what that change means for the nonprofit sector is unclear.

AFP is an approved provider for CFRE Continuing Education
 

Annual Fundraising Effectiveness Survey


Edmonton Chapter Receives Sponsorship for Essentials Program
(Oct. 23, 2006) The AFP Edmonton and Area Chapter has received a sponsorship from the Edmonton Real Estate Board (EREB) to hold the Essentials of Fundraising Program.

Edmonton Chapter Receives Sponsorship for Essentials Program
(Oct. 23, 2006) The AFP Edmonton and Area Chapter has received a sponsorship from the Edmonton Real Estate Board (EREB) to hold the Essentials of Fundraising Program.

Omega Circle Surges Forward
(Sept. 18, 2006) AFP Foundation for Philanthropy’s Omega Circle, which recognizes donors who have made a planned gift of $5,000 or more, has gained 14 new members this year.

AFP to Parliament: Eliminate Capital Gains on Gifts of Land, Real Estate
(Sept. 11, 2006) AFP has submitted testimony to the Standing Committee on Finance calling on Parliament to eliminate the capital gains tax on gifts of land and real estate.

IRA Rollover Signed Into Law
(Aug. 18, 2006) On Thursday, Aug. 17, President Bush signed into law a pension reform bill that includes several giving incentives, including the IRA rollover provision.

Maehara Again Named to The NonProfit Times’ 50 Most Influential
(Aug. 14, 2006) For the seventh consecutive year, Paulette V. Maehara, CFRE, CAE, president and CEO of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), has been named one of the 50 most influential people in the nonprofit sector by The NonProfit Times.

Indiana’s Do-Not-Call Law Upheld
(Aug. 14, 2006) An Indiana law that prohibits charities from using for-profit, outside solicitors in telefundraising campaigns was upheld recently by a federal appeals court.

Online Volunteering: Factors for Success
(July 31, 2006) A new study examines the potential benefits of cultivating online volunteers and the necessary infrastructure and capacity organizations need to effectively employ these volunteers.

AFP State of Fundraising 2005 Final Report Released
(July 10, 2006) The final report of AFP's State of Fundraising 2005 Survey is now available online in the Attachments section below (PDF format).

CRA Suspends Advisory Charities Committee for Review
(June 26, 2006) The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has temporarily suspended the activities of its national advisory committees while it undergoes a review of the role and mandate of these bodies.

Report Provides New Ideas on Arts, Education, Health Fundraising
(June 26, 2006) A new report on household giving in the United States identifies several key factors, beyond just wealth and income, as to why people give to arts, education and health charities.

Philanthropy Not the Most Important Aspect of CSR, Survey Finds
(June 5, 2006) A majority of Americans believe that the most important aspect of corporate social responsibility is treating employees fairly, according to a new survey released by the National Consumers League and Fleishman-Hillard.

Political Action Committee (AFP PAC)
AFP PAC

Eighteen Charter Members Inducted Into Canadian Leadership Society
(May 30, 2006) The Canadian Leadership Society, created to recognize long-term supporters of AFP and the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy – Canada and offer them opportunities to stay involved in foundation leaders, has welcomed its first 18 charter members.

Foundation Releases First Semi-Annual Newsletter
(May 30, 2006) AFP Foundation for Philanthropy has released its first newsletter, The Steward. Published semi-annually, The Steward focuses on projects that the foundation helps to fund, as well as the donors that make those projects happen.

Foundation, Univision Marketing Working Together on Every Member Campaign
(May 30, 2006) The AFP Foundation for Philanthropy - Canada has announced it is partnering with Univision Marketing Group on the 2006 Every Member Campaign (EMC) telemarketing campaign.

AFP Submits Additional Comments on Do-Not-Call List
(May 30, 2006) In response to continuing concerns from the Canada Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), AFP has submitted additional testimony regarding the implementation of a national do-not-call list.

New Illinois Law to Regulate Donations of Vehicles
(May 24, 2006) A new Illinois law expands the definition of “professional fundraiser” and creates additional paperwork for charities and fundraisers involved in the donation of cars, motorcycles, boats and other vehicles.

Companies Aligning Philanthropy With Their Business Objectives
(May 19, 2006) A new report has found that companies are increasingly positioning their giving and other philanthropic activities to match their overall business goals and corporate branding needs.

2008 AFP Canada Call for Nominations
(Sept. 8, 2008) AFP is now accepting nominations for the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy - Canada and the AFP Canada Council.

Leadership Society Honors Association and Foundation Supporters
(May 15, 2006) Sixty-four leaders in fundraising have become charter members of the Leadership Society, which recognizes long-term supporters of the profession and offers them opportunities to stay involved in association and foundation activities.

Charities Face Major Challenges in Finding Funds for Capital Projects
(May 15, 2006) A new survey has found that while numerous charities have significant investment capital needs, including technology, program development and strategic planning, they face substantial challenges in accessing that capital.

Canada Budget Eliminates Capital Gains Tax on Gifts of Appreciated Securities
(May 8, 2006) In a huge victory for the fundraising profession, the 2006 Canada federal budget includes a provision to eliminate the capital gains tax on gifts of appreciated securities to charities.

Changes to Chapter Ten Star Award
(May 8, 2006) The nomination form for the Chapter Ten Star Award, which recognizes model chapters that work towards the goals outlined in AFP’s strategic plan, is available, and some of the criteria for the award have changed.

Volunteers Still Not Being Used for Maximum Impact
(May 4, 2006) A new survey shows that a vast majority of nonprofit organizations are not taking full advantage of the professional skills and knowledge possessed by their volunteers.

Nearly Two-Thirds of U.S. and Canadian Charities Raised More Funds in 2005
(April 3, 2006) Despite the largest single relief effort in history for Hurricane Katrina, nearly two-thirds of charities in the United States and in Canada managed to raise more funds in 2005 than in 2004.

AFP Press Release: New Budget Will Increase Charitable Giving
(May 2, 2006) The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) today applauded the federal government’s move to eliminate the capital gains tax on gifts of appreciated securities, a provision included in the 2006 budget.

AFP Calls on Parliament to Eliminate Capital Gains Tax on Gifts of Securities
(May 1, 2006) In mid-April, AFP testified during the Standing Committee on Finance’s Pre-Budget Consultations and called for the complete elimination of the capital gains tax on gifts of appreciated securities to charity.

Survey Shows Hurricane Relief Had Little Impact on U.S. Giving
(April 24, 2006) Most Americans who gave money to help victims of the Katrina and Rita hurricanes also contributed to all of their normal charities as well, according to a survey released by The Conference Board.

Canadians Urged to Participate in Pre-Budget Consultations

(April 17, 2006) For the first time ever, the federal government is urging Canadians from coast to coast to participate in the budget process online. Minister of Finance James M. Flaherty has launched an online consultation process on the Department of Finance’s website allowing Canadians to provide their views to the government during the pre-budget consultation period.

National Philanthropy Day® Act Reintroduced in Canadian Senate
(April 17, 2006) The Canadian government has moved one step closer to officially recognizing Nov. 15 of each year as National Philanthropy Day®, with the reintroduction of the National Philanthropy Day Act, Bill S-204, by Sen. Jerahmiel S. Grafstein (Liberal, Metro Toronto), chair of the Standing Senate Committee on Banking, Trade and Commerce.

Charitable Fundraising Salaries Decrease in the U.S., Remain Stable in Canada
(April 10, 2006) From 2004 to 2005, salaries for charitable fundraisers decreased in the United States and remained stable in Canada, according to the latest Association of Fundraising Professionals’ (AFP) Compensation and Benefits Study.

AFP Charters Seven New Chapters
(April 10, 2006) At its recent board meetings before the International Conference on Fundraising in Atlanta, Ga., the AFP board of directors chartered seven new chapters, including five more collegiate chapters.

Agent of Change
(April 2, 2006) Admittedly in the “third act” of her life, Oscar-winning actress, humanitarian and activist Jane Fonda says that she is not afraid to die, but she is scared to reach the end of her life with regrets.

Chapter Conference Chairs
Chapter Conference Chairs

AFP Strategic Communications-Messages
AFP Strategic Communications-Messages

Setting up a Press Release
Setting up a Press Release

Public Relations Outline for AFP Chapters
Public Relations Outline for AFP Chapters

AFP Government Relations Committee
AFP Government Relations Committee

AFP Communications and Marketing Committee
AFP Communications and Marketing Committee

CRA Announces 2006 Charity Roadshow, Guidelines for Charity Registration
(March 20, 2006) For the ninth consecutive year, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will be holding a series of workshops and information sessions designed to help charities comply with the requirements of the Income Tax Act.

AFP Leaders Attend White House Philanthropy Conference
(March 13, 2006) More than 25 AFP leaders attended the National Conference on Faith-Based and Community Initiatives, hosted by the White House, on March 9 in Washington, D.C.

AFP Foundation Supports Ethics Workshop, Think Tank
(March 13, 2006) Scores of AFP members attended the AFP Ethics Workshop, held in San Francisco on March 9 and made possible through a grant from the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy through the Patricia F. Lewis Ethics Endowment Fund.

Chapter Leadership Manual 2006
Chapter Leadership Manual 2006

Paulette Maehara's Letter
Paulette Maehara's Letter

Education/Program Chairs
Education Chairs

Nonprofits Join Together to Fight AOL Email Plans
(March 6, 2006) Several nonprofits have joined together to launch a campaign against America Online’s (AOL) plans to charge fees for organizations using a new certified email system.

James Rogers Named 2006 Paschal*Murray Outstanding Philanthropist
(March 6, 2006) James E. Rogers, chancellor of Nevada’s System of Higher Education and generous donor and volunteer, has won the 2006 Paschal*Murray Award for Outstanding Philanthropist.

Contributions to Colleges and Universities Grow by Nearly 5 Percent
(Feb. 24, 2006) Colleges and universities in the United States experienced a 4.9 percent increase in contributions in 2005, according to the annual Voluntary Support of Education (VSE) survey released by the Council for Aid to Education (CAE).

AFP Urges Inclusion of Capital Gains Provision in Throne Speech, First Budget
(Feb. 25, 2006) The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) has sent a letter to Prime Minister Stephen Harper encouraging him to move quickly to eliminate the capital gains tax on gifts of appreciated securities to charity.

College Philanthropy Club Wins Outstanding Youth Award
(Feb. 20, 2006) The Midland College Students in Philanthropy Club will receive the 2006 William R. Simms Award for Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy, Ages 18-23, at the upcoming International Conference on Fundraising in Atlanta, Ga.

Socially Responsible Investment Assets Growing Faster Than Other Funds
(Feb. 20, 2006) Socially Responsible Investment (SRI) assets grew faster than all managed assets in the United States over the last 10 years, according to the latest biennial report on SRI funding by the Washington, D.C.-based Social Investment Forum.

U.K. Institute of Fundraising National Convention in July
(Feb. 13, 2006) The largest gathering of fundraisers outside the United States will take place at the Hilton London Metropole in the United Kingdom, July 10–12, 2006.

Grizzard Named One of World's Best Fundraisers
(Jan. 23, 2006) The editors of The NonProfit Times have named Claude H. Grizzard, Sr., a 'Living Legend' in their recent annual selection of 'The World Best Fundraisers.'

Fundraising Legend Don Kuhn Passes Away
(Jan. 17, 2005) Direct-response legend Don Kuhn, who pioneered the use of computer databases in fundraising, passed away in late 2005.

We Need to Hear from You!
(Dec. 19, 2005) In an attempt to reach every AFP member, AFP Foundation for Philanthropy has partnered with EU Services of Rockville, Md., to send a year-end Every Member Campaign (EMC) appeal to nearly 18,000 donors.

Canadian 'Do-Not-Call' List Receives Royal Assent
(Dec. 5, 2005) Legislation that creates a national 'do-not-call' list in Canada was approved by Parliament and received Royal Assent on November 25, 2005, although the list itself will probably not be in operation until 2007.

Branding: The Blind Helping The Sighted To See A New Future
(Nov. 21, 2005) Guide Dogs for the Blind is one of the most prestigious guide dog schools in the country. Their success in training guide dogs, placing them with blind people and supporting that human/guide dog team for life, is known throughout the world.

Fundraising Down Slightly Because of Hurricanes: Optimism Still Strong that Giving Will Recover By Year's End
Nearly half of U.S. charities have seen their fundraising decline because of the Gulf Coast Hurricanes and the associated relief efforts, according to a survey by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) released on National Philanthropy Day®.

AFP Co-Sponsors CARE Day Event on Capitol Hill
(Nov. 14, 2005) On Tuesday, Nov. 8, AFP participated in Congressional CARE Day to urge Congress to pass the Charity Aid, Recovery and Empowerment (CARE) Act before the end of this session.

Gender Pay Gap Narrows at U.S. Charities, But Still Remains Unequal
(Nov. 7, 2005) A new study reveals that the compensation of female charity CEO's has increased faster than, but still lags behind, those of their male counterparts.

Canada Advocacy Day A Huge Success; NPD Legislation Introduced
(Nov. 7, 2005) AFP's first ever Canada Advocacy Day on Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2005, was a resounding success, resulting two days later in the introduction of federal legislation to formally recognize National Philanthropy Day (NPD).

Charitable Reforms Face Roadblock in the House
(Nov. 7, 2005) A key Democratic staffer in the U.S. House of Representatives has indicated that the Senate Finance Committee's proposed charitable reforms are 'off the table' and will not be considered by the House at this point.

Legislation Formally Recognizing National Philanthropy Day Introduced in the Senate of Canada
(November 3, 2005) - Today, Senator Jerahmiel S. Grafstein (Liberal, Metro Toronto), chair of the Standing Senate Committee on Banking, Trade and Commerce, introduced legislation that would create the first permanent government-recognized National Philanthropy Day (NPD) in the world.

New "Due Diligence" Requirements Overly Burdensome for Charities
(Oct. 31, 2005) New provisions issued by the Department of Finance are overly burdensome to charities and can place them in jeopardy.

AFP Charters Four New Chapters, Including First-Ever Collegiate Groups
(Oct. 24, 2005) The AFP board chartered four new chapters, including the first two collegiate chapters, during its annual Delegate Assembly Meetings in Houston, Texas.

Foundations Select Leadership for 2006
(Oct. 24, 2005) The AFP Foundation for Philanthropy and the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy - Canada have selected their leaders for 2006.

Annual Fund Going Strong, Nearing Goal
(Oct. 17, 2005) If you haven't given yet to the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy's Annual Fund Campaign, there's still time to join your colleagues in supporting the profession.

Public Confidence in Charities Remains Low, Study Says
(Oct. 17, 2005) A new survey reveals that nearly one-third of Americans have little or no confidence in charities, while two-thirds believe that charities waste a great deal or fair amount of money.

AFP to Lobby on Parliament Hill for National Philanthropy Day
(Oct. 3, 2005) AFP will hold its first-ever Lobbying Day on Parliament Hill on Nov. 1 to encourage members of Parliament to support government recognition of National Philanthropy Day (NPD).

AFP Urges Finance Committee to Eliminate Capital Gains Tax, Recognize National Philanthropy Day
(Sept. 30, 2005) For the fifth consecutive year, AFP has testified before the Standing Committee on Finance during its annual pre-budget consultations, urging the body to eliminate the capital gains tax on gifts of appreciated assets and sponsoring National Philanthropy Day.

Maehara Named Chair of ASAE
(Sept. 19, 2005) Paulette V. Maehara, CFRE, CAE, president and CEO of AFP, has been named chair of the Washington, D.C.-based American Society of Association Executives (ASAE).

Looking Beyond Charity Competition
(Sept. 12, 2005) Like it or not, charities are forced to compete with each other. Rising above the ethical, logistical and resource-draining quagmire of competing against like-minded nonprofits requires framing the world a little bit differently than we have in the past.

AFP's CEO, Paulette Maehara, Speaks About AFP Members Affected by Hurricane Katrina and Their Needs
(Sept. 7, 2005) I sent out a message to all AFP members on Sept. 2, letting them know what the organization was doing in response to Hurricane Katrina. I have received hundreds of emails from concerned members in support of their colleagues.

Update on Hurricane Katrina
(Sept. 6, 2005) The AFP Hurricane Katrina Blog contains all of the updates and news stories on how this tragedy is affecting philanthropy and fundraising.

Brought to You By ' and More
(Sept. 6, 2005) When is a corporate donation like a company sponsorship? The article 'Good Deal' in the September/October issue of Advancing Philanthropy answers that question.

AFP's CEO, Paulette V. Maehara Speaks About Hurricane Katrina
(Sept. 2, 2005) All of us at AFP International Headquarters send our thoughts and prayers to the residents of cities affected by Hurricane Katrina (especially our members in the New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Alabama Gulf Coast and Mississippi chapters and others in the affected area). We hope all of our members' families and friends are safe and well.

Give, But Give Wisely, to Katrina Relief Efforts
(Alexandria , Va.) -- The Association of Fundraising Professionals ( AFP ) today warned the general public about fundraising scams involving relief efforts for Hurricane Katrina and urged donors to exercise caution when giving to any type of relief effort.

Pledge Rate Up as Advantage Leads AFP Every Member Campaign
(Aug. 22, 2005) The AFP Every Member Campaign (EMC), coordinated through Fairfield, N.J.-based Advantage Fund-Raising Consulting, has seen its average pledge rate increase to 52 percent this year.

When You're Fundraising By Accident
(Aug. 22, 2005) The AFP Greater Austin Chapter's 'Accidental Fundraiser' program was no accident. It was developed on purpose to help those individuals who suddenly find themselves with fundraising responsibilities.

Audit Critical of CRA Charity Oversight
(Aug. 22, 2005) An audit of the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) by federal investigators is highly critical of the agency for it ineffective and inefficient oversight of the charitable sector, according to an article by The Canadian Press.

Branding: Are Your Fundraising Strategies Damaging Your Hopes For Long-Term Success?
(Aug. 8, 2005) Fundraising solicitations that play on current world events and short-term emotions are commonplace, but can they damage a charity's long-term development potential? AFP's guest branding columnist, Bill Tolliver, examines the issue.

Survey Rates Perceptions and Experiences of Fundraisers
(Aug. 8, 2005) A new report, supported in part by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), provides new perspectives on how fundraisers of different races view themselves and their jobs and compiles ideas on what can be done to bring more African-American fundraisers into the profession.

AFP President and CEO Named One of Sector's Most Influential People
(Aug. 8, 2005) The Nonprofit Times has named Paulette V. Maehara, CFRE, CAE, president and CEO of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), one of the 50 most influential people in the charitable sector.

Operating Style Key Factor in Foundation Expenses
(Aug. 1, 2005) A new study of the expense and compensation patterns of the 10,000 largest grantmaking foundations in the United States suggests not only that there are vast differences among these entities, but also operating style may be the most critical factor in determining and explaining such expenditures.

AFP State of Fundraising 2004 Final Report Released
(July 20, 2005) The final report of AFP's State of Fundraising 2004 Survey is now available online.

Arizona Mentoring Program Creates Opportunities, Community for Beginning, Mid-level Fundraisers
(July 18, 2005) A complete overview of fundraising, an experienced mentor and a group of similarly minded colleagues are exactly what any new fundraiser needs, and that is exactly what the AFP Greater Arizona Chapter's Professional Mentoring Program provides.

Branding -- Using the Power of Common Sense to Earn Loyalty
This is the second in a series of six articles addressing the issue of nonprofit branding. This week: earning the public's (and your donor's) loyalty.

Rhode Island to Study Colleges' Tax-Exempt Status
(July 5, 2005) Rhode Island's Senate Finance Committee recently voted to create a bipartisan commission that will analyze the tax-exempt status of colleges and universities in the state and the cost of municipal services (e.g., police and fire services) to those institutions.

President Approves Do-Not-Fax Exemption for Charities
(July 18, 2005) President Bush has signed into law legislation that will allow companies and nonprofits to send commercial faxes to customers, donors and members without a recipient's written consent.

Chapter Newsletter Inserts
Need content for your chapter newsletter? We have attached a list of articles on topics such as the AFP International Conference on Fundraising, the benefits of AFP membership and informative articles from AFP eWire.

Nonprofit Panel Releases Final Report
(June, 27, 2005) The Panel on the Nonprofit Sector presented its report to Sen. Grassley (R-Iowa) and the Senate Finance Committee on Wednesday, June 22, 2005.

Taking the Mystery (and Misery) Out of Branding
(June 27, 2005) A new series of articles in AFP eWire will help nonprofits use advanced branding and communications techniques to further their cause.

New Project to Raise Awareness of Charitable Sector
(June 20, 2005) Eight organizations in Canada are collaborating on a new project over the next two years to raise awareness of the country's voluntary and charitable sector.

Charitable Giving Rises Five Percent in 2004
(June 20, 2005) Charitable Giving in the U.S. exceeded $248 billion in 2004, according to the new Giving USA report.

Urgent Call to Action: National Do-Not-Call List
I am writing to urge you to contact the closest member of the House of Commons INDU Committee as soon as possible and encourage them to support amendments that exempt all nonprofits, not just those charities registered under the Income Tax Act, from the proposed national do-not-call list.

The Rich Are Getting Richer
(June 6, 2005) The income of the super rich in the U.S. is growing faster than any other income class, according to research conducted by The New York Times and published in its June 5 issue.

Americans Prefer Charities and Corporations to Work Together
(June 6, 2005) Nearly nine out of 10 Americans now believe that corporations and nonprofits should work together to raise awareness and funding for charitable causes, according to a new report by Boston-based Cone, Inc., a strategic marketing and communications firm.

AFP Foundation Issues $116,000 in 2004 EMC Chapter Partnership Grants
(May 31, 2005) The AFP Foundation for Philanthropy is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2004 Every Member Campaign (EMC) Chapter Partnership Grants.

Canada Announces Compliance Funding Program for Charities
(May 23, 2005) The federal government has launched a new program designed to support projects that educate and train charities on how to comply with its regulatory requirements.

Exemption Sought for Do-Not-Call List
(May 23, 2005) In early May, AFP submitted comments to Parliament seeking an exemption for charities from a proposed national Do-Not-Call list, and the House of Commons is considering the recommendation.

AFP Giving Guides
These two giving guides (American and Canadian versions) provide wise giving tips for the public. Chapters may find some of the material useful in their own public education efforts for NPD.

Chapter Case Study: New Vision Leads to Advocacy, Awards Success
(May 16, 2005) A new case for support and vision statement for the AFP Chicago Chapter led to some astonishing results in public awareness, legislative advocacy, member unity and financial sponsorship--all in a single day.

Strong Trustee-CDO Relationship Can Have Huge Impact on Fundraising
(May 9, 2005) When key players in a nonprofit--the CEO, board chair and chief development officer (CDO)--all share a common vision, the organization can function and fundraise more effectively, according to research funded by AFP.

New Giving Index Shows U.S. Philanthropy Quite Strong
(May 2, 2005) Despite mixed signals on the economy, Americans continue overwhelmingly to donate to a variety of charitable causes, with more than 90 percent giving at least $100 to more than $10,000 annually.

Canada Has World's Second Largest Nonprofit Sector
(April 18, 2005) Canada has the second largest nonprofit sector in the world, according to the Canadian Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector in Comparative Perspective report recently issued by Imagine Canada.

SENATE FINANCE COMMITTEE HOLDS HEARING ON CHARITABLE REFORMS
(April 11, 2005) On April 5, 2005, the Senate Finance Committee held a hearing on proposals designed to curb abuses involving tax-exempt organizations.

AFP Awards for Philanthropy
(April 11, 2005) During the AFP International Conference on Fundraising, the following individuals and organizations were recognized for their excellence and many contributions to philanthropy and the fundraising profession.

Foundation Giving Declines, Key Issues Gain Support in 2003
(April 11, 2005) Overall giving by the largest private and community foundations dropped 10 percent in 2003, according to the recent Foundation Giving Trends: An Update on Funding Priorities report from the Foundation Center.

AFP State of Fundraising 2004 Report Released
(April 4, 2005) According to findings of AFP's annual State of Fundraising 2004 survey, charitable fundraising in 2004 was robust and fundraisers are optimistic about 2005.

Ann H. Moffitt, CFRE, of Pennsylvania Named 2005 Outstanding Fundraising Professional
(April 4, 2005) Ann H. Moffitt, CFRE, of Harrisburg, Pa., received the 2005 Community Counselling Service (CCS) Award for Outstanding Fundraising Professional at the AFP International Conference on Fundraising.

Nonprofit Panel to Hold Field Hearings Regarding Its Reports to the Senate Finance Committee
(March 28, 2005) The Oversight and Self-Regulation Work Group of an ad hoc Panel on the Nonprofit Sector submitted its interim recommendations to the Senate Finance Committee on March 1, 2005.

U.S. Congress Introduces Legislation to Allow Deductions for Artistic Donations
(March 28, 2005) Reps. Benjamin L. Cardin (D-Md.) and Jim Ramstad (R-Minn.) have introduced the Artists Contribution to American Heritage Act of 2005 (H.R. 1120) that would allow donors to deduct the fair market value for charitable contributions of any literary, musical, artistic or scholarly composition.

AFP Supports Alert Urging Nonprofits to Contact the USPS and Obtain Advanced Rulings on Sample Mail pieces
(March 21, 2005) As reported recently in eWire, a new rule introduced by the United States Postal Service (USPS) regarding the use of personal information in solicitations will go into effect on June 1, 2005.

Report Yields New Insights on Giving Circles
(March 7, 2005) A new study by New Ventures in Philanthropy about giving circles shows a small but growing phenomenon that poses new opportunities and challenges for fundraisers.

GE, Novartis and Arch Chemicals Win Corporate Philanthropy Day Awards
(March 7, 2005) The Committee to Encourage Corporate Philanthropy (CECP) celebrated its sixth annual Corporate Philanthropy Day on February 28 by honoring three companies for their charitable efforts.

Barbara Marion's Planned Gifts to Support AFP Resource Center
(Feb. 28, 2005) The AFP Foundation for Philanthropy has received generous support through the estate of Barbara Marion, ACFRE, that will be used to fund programs in the AFP Resource Center.

Public Invited to Participate in Nonprofit Panel Conference Call
(Feb. 28, 2005) Individuals involved with the charitable sector are invited to participate in a conference call on March 4, 2005, of the Panel on the Nonprofit Sector, which is developing recommendations to Congress on how to strengthen governance and accountability in the sector.

Lack of Standards, Assessment Hindering Foundation Effectiveness
(Feb. 21, 2005) Many foundations do not have specific goals or standards of effectiveness, or ways of measuring their effectiveness, according to a study by the Urban Institute.

Congressional Committee Proposes New Limits on Charitable Deductions
(Feb. 14, 2005) A new report by the Joint Committee on Taxation in Congress includes proposals to limit or eliminate certain types of deductions for charitable giving.

Process for Development of AFP Position Papers
So how does AFP write and develop position papers?

New Governance Proposals for Charities Working under JWOD Act
(Jan. 31, 2005) The more than 600 nonprofit organizations that work with the blind or severely disabled under the Javits-Wagner-O'Day (JWOD) Act may be subject to tougher governance standards in the future, including requirements for audit committees and limits on executive compensation.

Chapter Leadership Manual
The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) is the largest community of professional fundraisers in the world. We are involved in every facet of fundraising and none of what we do is possible without our chapters.

Biography: The Hon. Terry M. Mercer, CFRE, Chair, AFP Foundation for Philanthropy - Canada
Meet The Hon. Terry M. Mercer, CFRE and chair of the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy - Canada.

Fundraising Competition Increases as U.S. Charities Number 800,000
(Jan. 24, 2005) Charities can look forward to additional fundraising competition as the Internal Revenue Service now reports that there are nearly 800,000 charitable organizations in the United States, double the number than existed in 1990.

AFP Foundation Staff Campaign Reaches Goal!
(Jan. 18, 2005) Members are not the only ones who support the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy. Each year, AFP staff runs its own campaign and once again made its goal for 2004.

New California Regulatory Act Now in Effect ' Fact Sheet Available
(Jan. 10, 2004) A comprehensive regulatory bill affecting charities, fundraisers and fundraising counsel who work in California (including organizations and individuals based outside of the state) came into effect at the beginning of 2005.

Give, but Give Wisely, to Tsunami Relief Efforts
(Jan. 4, 2005) The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) today encouraged the general public to contribute to tsunami relief efforts, but urged donors to use caution when giving to avoid potential scams.

Nonprofits Must Comply with CAN-SPAM Regs
(Dec. 20, 2004) As expected, nonprofit organizations are not automatically exempt from the final regulations recently published by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regarding the CAN-SPAM Act.

Senate Banking Committee Endorses AFP's Recommendations To Increase Charitable Giving
(December 16, 2004) In its interim report, released today, on ways to encourage charitable giving, the Senate Banking Committee endorsed several proposals recommended by AFP.

2003 Leadership Donors
2003 Leadership Donors.

VSI Report Highlights Resources for Canadian Fundraisers, Charities
(Dec. 13, 2004) The Joint Steering Committee of the Voluntary Sector Initiative (VSI) has released its second evaluation of the VSI process and its impact on charities, the government and their relationship.

2004-2005 Award Winners and Honorees
AFP's awards programs honor the best in the profession. Here's a description of the award and a list of this year's honorees.

Email Solicitations Still Evolving in Higher Education
(Dec. 6, 2004) Only half of higher education institutions are using email as a fundraising tool, and there is a wide disparity in how the technology is being employed, according to a new survey by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE). Although focused on higher education, the survey also holds insights for other types of charitable organizations as well.

AFP PAC Contributes to Six Senate, House Campaigns
(Nov. 15, 2004) The AFP Political Action Committee (PAC) contributed to six Congressional reelection campaigns in late October.

Bush, Congress at Odds over Charities?
(Nov. 8, 2004) At his first press conference since being reelected, President Bush indicated that tax reform will be a priority in his second term and stated that tax incentives for charitable giving are very important and should not reduced.

Canadian Giving Reaches Record High
(Nov. 8, 2004) Charitable giving by individuals in Canada reached $6.5 billion in 2003, the highest level ever reported.

AFP Submits Comments to Exempt BC Charities from Telemarketing Rules
(Nov. 8, 2004) In comments delivered Oct. 29, AFP requested that the British Columbia's Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General exempt charities from its proposal to require telemarketers to register with the province.

New Postal Rule Eases Restrictions on Use of Personal Information
(Nov. 8, 2004) Bowing to pressure from the nonprofit sector, the United States Postal Service has changed new regulations on the eligibility of nonprofit mail which contains personal information for Standard Mail rates.

CRA to Review Charity Registration Process
(Nov. 8, 2004) In response to numerous questions and concern from the voluntary sector, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is inviting public comments about the process for organizations to attain registered status as charities.

AFP's Comments On the CAN-SPAM Act
(October 14, 2004) AFP's comments before the Federal Trade Commission regarding the CANSPAM Act.

Majority of 'Higher Net Worth' Canadians View Need for Private Philanthropy
(October 4, 2004) According to a recent survey, 73 percent of 'higher net worth' Canadians believe there is an increased need for private philanthropy or public sources of funding.

Nonprofits Continue Love/Hate Relationship with Internet
(Oct. 4, 2004) While web usage is prevalent in the nonprofit sector, a majority of charities aren't satisfied with their web design and many still aren't seeing much traffic, according to a recent survey by Ontario-based Leverus, a web company working with nonprofits.

U.S. State Issues -- June/July 2004 Public Policy Update
This month's state update contains numerous bills that affect the fundraising profession being considered in legislatures in Alaska, California, Hawaii, Michigan and New York.

U.S. Federal Issues -- June/July 2004 Public Policy Update
This issue of the update covers numerous issues related to the Senate Finance Committee hearings and discussion on charity regulation, as well as the CARE Act, the FCC's do-not-fax rule, the FTC's proposed do-not-email list and IRS publications on gifts of vehicles and conservation easements.

Organization Needed to Create Public Awareness Campaign for Canada's Charities
(July 29, 2004) Social Development Canada (SDC) is issuing a call for proposals to design a national communications campaign that will increase public awareness and support of Canada's voluntary sector and the work it performs.

AFP to Congress: Prohibit Percentage-Based Compensation
(July 26, 2004)  One of the most important steps Congress can take in increasing public confidence in charities is to outlaw percentage-based compensation, AFP President and CEO Paulette V. Maehara, CFRE, CAE, told U.S. Senate Finance Chairman Charles Grassley (R-Iowa) and key committee staff members at a July 22 roundtable on charity regulation.

New Strategies for Bequest Solicitations
(July 19, 2004)  Charities should not limit their solicitations for bequests (often known as 'legacy solicitations') to the traditional group of wealthy donors, a new study advises. Instead, they should extend their reach to nearly all contributors or individuals who have benefited from the charity's work or programs.

New Strategies to Attract Baby Boomer Volunteers
(July 2, 2004)  Baby boomers have the promise of becoming a social resource of unparalleled proportions, but charities face special challenges in trying to reach them, according to a new report by the Harvard School of Public Health-MetLife Foundation Initiative on Retirement and Civic Engagement.

AFP Fundraising Survey Shows Charitable Giving Recovered in 2003
(Alexandria, VA, March 14, 2004) - Seventy-three percent of charities raised the same amount of money or more in 2003 than in 2002, a 13 percent increase from the previous year, according to the Association of Fundraising Professionals' (AFP) annual State of Fundraising 2003 Survey. AFP is the largest community of fundraising professionals in the world and represents more than 26,000 individuals.

Fundraising Salaries Rise, Gender Gap Still Significant
(June 28, 2004) U.S. fundraising salaries rose more than 9 percent and Canadian salaries increased more than 1.5 percent from 2002 to 2003, according to the latest AFP Compensation and Benefits Study.

Teaching the Teachers at the First Canadian Faculty Training Academy
(June 28, 2004) The first AFP Faculty Training Academy (FTA) in Canada was held June 17-19 in cooperation with the Mount Royal College Institute of Nonprofit Studies in Calgary, Alberta.

House Passes JOBS Bill With New Vehicle Donation Rules
(June 21, 2004)  The U.S. House of Representatives has approved a provision that would require donors to obtain an independent appraisal of their vehicle before donating it to charity.

Letters Needed on New Postal Service Regs'Write Now!
(June 14, 2004) Comments to the United States Postal Service (USPS) regarding its proposed new 'exclusive purpose' regulations are due by June 18, and all U.S. charities and fundraisers are encouraged to write letters.

U.S. State Issues -- May 2004 Public Policy Update
This month's update contains numerous bills that affect the fundraising profession being considered in legislatures in Alaska, California, Maryland, New Jersey, Ohio, Rhode Island and Vermont.

Canada Issues -- May 2004 Public Policy Update
The call for federal elections has delayed some public policy initiatives related to philanthropy. However, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission has issued new regulations regarding telemarketing that would be detrimental to charities. AFP members are encouraged to respond.

U.S. Federal Issues: May 2004 Public Policy Update
The Postal Service has issued new regulations that would dramatically impact charitable organizations, while AFP continues its work on the CARE Act. This month's report also contains updates on proposals by the Federal Election Commission concerning the applicability of political rules to nonprofits) and the Federal Trade Commission (regarding stricter rules on commercial emails).

AFP Gearing Up for Post-Election Education Efforts
(June 1, 2004) Public policy initiatives in Canada related to philanthropy and fundraising will pause briefly for the June 28 elections, but the short delay will allow AFP to prepare a significant education campaign aimed at members of Parliament.

IRS to Examine Nonprofit Executive Pay
(May 31, 2004) The director of exempt organizations for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has said that the agency plans to take a close look at how much top executives at nonprofit organizations are being paid.

Proposed Postal Rule Could Prove Disastrous for Fundraising
(May 21, 2004)  The United States Postal Service (USPS) has issued a proposed rule that would change dramatically the guidelines for sending charitable solicitations and force many charities to pay First-Class postage rates for their mail.

URBAN INSTITUTE RELEASES STUDY ON FOUNDATION PRACTICES, ATTITUDES
(May 6, 2004) - The Urban Institute in Washington, D.C., has conducted a study that reveals a wealth of data about the attitudes and practices of different types of foundations, including how they view effective philanthropy and the monitoring and evaluation processes.

FTC Proposal Could Restrict Nonprofit Email
(May 3, 2004) AFP has responded to a request for preliminary comments by the Federal Trade Commissions (FTC) regarding a proposal to restrict the distribution of unsolicited commercial emails.

U.S. State Issues: April 2004 Public Policy Update
This month's update contains numerous bills affecting the fundraising profession being considered in legislatures in Arizona, California, New York, New Jersey, South Carolina and Utah.

Canada Issues: April 2004 Public Policy Update
The Privacy Commissioner announces that fundraising is not considered a commercial activity under the federal privacy law. AFP's scheduled appearance before the Senate Banking Committee is postponed, but AFP members are named to two different CRA committees. In addition, Alberta amends its fundraising statutes.

U.S. Federal Issues: April 2004 Public Policy Update
AFP has responded to requests for comments from the Federal Election Commission (concerning the applicability of political rules to nonprofits) and the Federal Trade Commission (regarding stricter rules on commercial emails). This month's issue also includes an update on the CARE Act and information about IRS efiling and a new bill to help fund nonprofits that are considered 'high-risk' for terrorist activity.

AFP Curriculum Framework
The AFP Knowledge Areas and Curriculum Framework lists competencies and skills of professional fundraiser as identified in AFP's Fundraising Practice Analysis Study.

AFP OPPOSES FEC RULES ON POLITICAL ACTIVITY, ADVOCACY
(April 12, 2004) - The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) submitted comments on Friday, April 9, to the Federal Election Commission (FEC) asking the commission to exempt 501(c) organizations from its proposed new rules on political committees and advocacy activities.

AFP MEMBERS NAMED TO CCRA CHARITIES, TECHNICAL COMMITTEES
(April 5, 2004) - Members of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) have been named to both the Canadian Customs and Revenue Agency's (CCRA) Charities Advisory and Technical Advisory Committees.

WRITE NOW FOR THE CARE ACT!
(April 5, 2004) - With negotiations and developments continuing to swirl around the Charity Aid, Recovery and Empowerment (CARE) Act, the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) is urging members to send letters to Congress now to help the bill move through the Senate.

Provincial Privacy Developments
(March 31, 2004) The following is an update on privacy developments in Canada's provinces as of March 2004.

Study to Examine Creation of Canadian Human Resources Council for Charitable Sector
OTTAWA(AFP eWire-March 29, 2004) Representatives from the charitable sector, including the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), are examining the feasibility of creating a national human resources council to address human resources-related issues and encourage capacity in the sector.

New Canadian Federal Budget Looks Promising for Charities
OTTAWA (AFP eWire-March 29, 2004) Several proposals of interest to the charitable sector were included in the federal budget announced last week, including proposals related to intermediate sanctions and greater disclosure of charity information to the public.

AFP FUNDRAISING SURVEY SHOWS GIVING REBOUNDED IN 2003
(March 15, 2004) - Nearly 73 percent of respondents to AFP's third annual State of Fundraising Survey indicated that their organizations raised the same amount of money or more in 2003 than they did in 2002.

Canada Issues: March 2004 Public Policy Update
AFP has been asked to testify before the Senate Banking, Trade and Commerce committee on ways to encourage charitable giving, while the fundraising profession scores a major victory on the Ontario health privacy bill. AFP has also been named to a charity technical committee set up by the Canadian Customs and Revenue Agency.

U.S. States: March 2004 Public Policy Update
With many states just starting their legislative sessions, there are numerous bills affecting the fundraising profession in this month's Update. Bills from Arizona, California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Vermont and Virginia.

MASSACHUSETTS AG CONSIDERING CHARITY ACCOUNTABILITY LEGISLATION
(March 8, 2004) - The Massachusetts Attorney General's office is considering new regulations that seek to improve charity accountability and transparency.

AFP Testifies Before Committee on Ontario Health Privacy Bill
(Feb. 9, 2004) - AFP has submitted formal written comments and participated in a hearing on Feb. 7 before the Committee on General Government on the impact of Ontario Bill 31, the Health Privacy Information Act.

U.S. States: February 2004 Public Policy Update
(Feb. 4, 2004) - Many states are considering policy changes that will affect the fundraising profession and the nonprofit sector. With many state legislatures adjourned for the year, this month's Update contains information on issues in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Maine, Nebraska, New Jersey, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, and West Virginia.

Canada Issues: February 2004 Public Policy Update
(Feb. 4, 2004) - Learn more about the federal privacy laws and Ontario Bill 31.

New Ideas for Keeping Senior-Level Fundraisers Involved
(Feb. 2, 2004) - A critical challenge for AFP and its chapters is how to keep senior-level practitioners involved with the organization and the profession. AFP recently developed guidelines, posted on the AFP website, on how to create discussion groups and other materials directed at this important group of fundraisers.

Social Change Organizations Attract Alienated Youth
(Feb. 2, 2004) - Youth uninterested in traditional youth organizations are embracing social change organizations because they allow them to take an active role in improving their communities, a new report shows.

Crafting Memorable Messages that Capture the Public's Attention
(Feb. 2, 2004) - Studying urban legends can teach nonprofits how to craft appealing and galvanizing messages, according to an article in the winter 2003 issue of Stanford Social Innovation Review.

Foundation Development Chair Expectations And Responsibilities
Please read the FDC Expectations and Responsibilities document to make sure you understand your role in ensuring the success of your chapter's campaign.

Foundation Development Chair Resources
The Foundation Development Chair (FDC) is the chapter's primary liaison with the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy and AFP Foundation for Philanthropy - Canada. Access the calendar, expectations, guidelines and forms in this new section of the AFP website.

2003-2004 Award Winners And Honorees
AFP's awards programs honor the best in the profession. Here's a description of the award and a list of this year's honorees.

Nonprofits Struggle to Keep Talented Employees
(Jan. 26, 2004) - While most nonprofit employees are deeply committed to their jobs, low salaries, high workloads and the lack of opportunity for advancement make it difficult for the employees to stick with their jobs, a new report on Canada's nonprofit sector shows.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Charitable Fundraising & The Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA)
(Jan. 21, 2004) - This guide is intended to help answer some of the more common questions that charities and professional fundraisers are asking about PIPEDA and its requirements.

Fundraising and Privacy: Complying with Federal and Provincial Laws
(Jan. 21, 2004) - With the development of both federal and provincial laws related to privacy, many charities and fundraisers have questions about compliance with the array of new requirements. Even as charities move to comply with the federal Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), provinces are creating their own requirements and limitations.

Guidelines for the Group Moderator and Effective Small Group Discussion
The task of the moderator is to facilitate the group's learning experience and make sure the discussion proceeds in an orderly fashion. Learn more about the role of the moderator and how to conduct an effective small group discussion. 

Ideas for Establishing a Senior Practitioners Discussion Group
Many AFP chapters find it is difficult to keep individuals with 10 or more years of fundraising experience engaged in chapter activities. Following are some ideas for forming a seniors group to discuss current literature on fundraising and philanthropy.

Engaging youth in your nonprofits
(Jan. 12, 2004) - Young donors and volunteers in Canada want more say in the nonprofits to which they give their time and money, a new report shows.

Canada Fundraising Groups to Develop Further Privacy Guidance
(Jan. 12, 2004) - A coalition of fundraising groups and associations, including AFP, will be working together to develop materials to help charities comply with the growing number of privacy bills in Canada.

Predictions: How the Internet will Affect Nonprofits in 2004
(Jan. 12, 2004) - The Internet can be a tremendous communication tool for all nonprofits, but are you using its full potential? Do you know how to integrate the Internet into your fundraising plan? An Internet expert recently discussed his predictions for 2004 about the Internet and its impact on nonprofits.

Canadian Government, Voluntary Sector Continue to Strengthen Relationship
(Jan. 6, 2004) - A new report outlines the progress made in the past two years in the development of an accord between the Canadian government and the country's voluntary sector.

Canadian Nonprofits Less Hierarchical than For-Profits
(Dec. 22, 2003) - When looking for new employees, nonprofits should stress their tendency to have shared decision-making, individual control over work and an atmosphere of mutual respect, a new report from Canada suggests.

Chapters Filled with Giving Spirit as Holidays Near
(Dec. 22, 2003) - AFP chapters have been celebrating the spirit of the holidays by donating food, toys and gifts to people in their communities.

Cooperative Mailings Update: Guidance, Congressional Challenges
(Dec. 15, 2003) - The decision by the United States Postal Service (USPS) to essentially eliminate the cooperative mailing rules has been challenged by several members of Congress. In addition, a coalition of nonprofit umbrella groups (including AFP) has developed guidance for charities as they seek to work with professional fundraisers.

President Signs Anti-Spam Bill into Law
(Dec. 16, 2003) - President Bush signed legislation on Tuesday, Dec. 16, that seeks to curb unsolicited commercial emails, commonly known as spam, but the law will currently have little or no impact upon nonprofit organizations.

American Fundraisers Optimistic as Holidays Approach
(Dec. 15, 2003) - Fundraisers are much more optimistic about the giving climate than they were six months ago, according to the latest Philanthropic Giving Index (PGI) from the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University.

Sarbanes-Oxley: It Will Affect Your Organization
(Dec. 8, 2003) - Most members are probably aware of the Sarbanes-Oxley bill and that it has something to do with corporate accountability. But just as many may not realize that part of the bill affects charitable organizations, and that many states are looking at applying the bill's provisions to the nonprofit sector.

Advancing Philanthropy's November/December 2003 Issue
Sample the best of Advancing Philanthropy's November/December 2003 issue here.

Chapters celebrate generosity of spirit on National Philanthropy Day
(Nov. 17, 2003) - Marathon swimmer and world record holder

Maryland NPD luncheon

Jim Dreyer's story of determination and philanthropic commitment was the inspirational message of the National Philanthropy Day luncheon of the AFP West Michigan Chapter, based in Grand Rapids. The chapter was just one of hundreds that held National Philanthropy Day events recently to celebrate with the theme of 'Change the World with a Giving Heart.'

AFP Chapter Services and Benefits
Here are just some of the services and benefits offered to AFP chapters.

Canadians Work on Better Evaluation of Nonprofits
(Oct. 14, 2003) - Canadian nonprofits tend to evaluate their programs and services at least once a year, but how such an assessment is conducted could be improved, a new report found.

USPS Finalizes Rule That Could Lead to Fraudulent Fundraising
(Oct. 10, 2003) - The United States Postal Service (USPS) has issued its final regulations to essentially eliminate the Cooperative Mailing Rules. The regulations, which were published in the Oct. 9 Federal Register, will take effect on Nov. 13.

Chapters Get into Giving Spirit with Pledges to AFP Foundation
(Sept. 29, 2003) - Eighty-two chapters have already pledged support to the 2003 Chapter Treasury Campaign (CTC) - and more than half of these are first-time gifts or gifts that are at least 10 percent more than last year's gift.

Greater Toronto Chapter ' 1,000 And Counting
(Sept. 22, 2003) - Congratulations are due to the AFP Greater Toronto Chapter, which recently reached a significant milestone: 1,000 members and going strong. This makes it only the third AFP chapter - and the first outside the United States - to reach this mark.

Fundraisers Help Nonprofit Theaters Through Tough Economic Times
(Sept. 15, 2003) - Large increases in individual contributions in the past five years helped many nonprofit theaters stay afloat in 2002, but their future remains uncertain, a new report shows.

Ethics Materials in One Spot to Assist Chapters, Members
(Sept. 15, 2003) - A new AFP program will help chapters as they develop materials for chapter meetings and workshops.

Ethics Leadership Guide
The AFP Ethics Committee has provided a complete guide for chapter leaders who want to learn more about the ethics program or are interested in starting an ethics education program in their own chapters. The Guide consolidates a wealth of information provided by AFP on ethics, the ethics enforcement process and procedures, educational programming on ethics, and a series of valuable case studies.

Chapter Resource Programming Topic: Ethics
Here you will find valuable information on the topic of ethics. While most of the information is available online, some components must be ordered and in those cases, contact or order information is provided.

AFP Chapter Resource Programming Guide
The information provided here is designed to assist AFP chapters in developing programming for chapter meetings or conferences. While most of the information is available online, some components must be ordered and in those cases, contact or order information is provided. Our purpose is to provide you with one area to access this valuable data in order to make the development of your educational programming easier. The following topics are available: Ethics; National Philanthropy Day; Diversity; Strategic Planning and Chapter Education Program Planning.

Advancing Philanthropy's September/October 2003 Issue
Sample the best of Advancing Philanthropy's September/October 2003 issue here.

Chapter Partners with College to Develop Successful Fundraising Course
(Aug. 29, 2003) - A fundraising course created by the AFP Western New York Chapter and Canisius College is the first multi-workshop collaborative program to be approved for Continuing Education Units (CEUs) from the AFP Continuing Education Board.

Recruiting excellent presenters
Since no plan is any better than its execution, a poorly prepared speaker can ruin all of your planning efforts. It is therefore worth the extra care required to recruit the most competent presenters.

Creating a Balanced Educational Program
Much as we know we can not please all of the people all of the time, as dedicated volunteers that is usually our unspoken/unwritten goal. Reality demands that we make logical decisions based on rational criteria.

Determining educational content
Before you can plan a relevant educational program you must go to your potential participants and determine what they need to learn from it. This is called an Educational Needs Assessment.

Choosing a Facility: What to Consider
In the search for meeting space that is affordable, available and the right size, it is easy to overlook the details that contribute (or detract from) a good learning experience for attendees.

CCS to Sponsor Outstanding Fundraising Professional Award
(Aug. 8, 2003) - Community Counseling Service (CCS) has agreed to sponsor the Outstanding Fundraising Professional award, one of AFP's five Awards for Philanthropy annually presented at its International Conference on Fundraising.

Building Fundraising Awareness in Mexico
(July 25, 2003) - When members of the three AFP chapters in Mexico attempted to incorporate as organizations, they ran into difficulty with Mexican government officials. They didn't know what the chapters were trying to do, partly because the word "fundraising" doesn't even exist in Spanish.

Survey Shows Nonprofits Challenged by Fundraising
(July 18, 2003) - Fundraising is the biggest challenge nonprofits are facing, according to a new survey.

AFP Releases First-Ever Survey on Fundraising Profession in Canada
(July 11, 2003) - A new survey by AFP and the Canadian Policy Research Networks (CPRN) reveals new details about the philanthropic landscape and the fundraising profession in Canada.

Nonprofits Run Successful Businesses to Raise Money
(July 11, 2003) - In an economic climate in which many nonprofits are looking for new funding sources, one answer is to start a business venture.

Advancing Philanthropy's July/August 2003 Issue
Sample the best of Advancing Philanthropy's July/August 2003 issue here.

Giving USA Shows Increase in Donations in 2002
(June 23, 2003) - Giving in the United States grew by 1 percent in 2002 to an estimated $240.92 billion, in part because of increased giving by corporations and estates, according to the new Giving USA report released today.

Advancing Philanthropy's May/June 2003 Issue
Sample the best of Advancing Philanthropy's May/June 2003 issue here.

War, Economy Hindering Fundraising Efforts
(June 20, 2003) - Fundraising professionals' outlook on giving fell almost 19 percent from a year ago, according to the recently released Summer 2003 Philanthropic Giving Index by the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University.

Chapter Spotlight on Puerto Rico Chapter
(October 2001) - Find out how the AFP Puerto Rico Chapter organized a successful coalition that lobbied for specific legislative and regulatory reforms.

Canada's New Privacy Law
(June 13, 2003) - The Canadian federal privacy law, the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents (PIPED) Act, will come into effect for all organizations, including charities, on Jan. 1, 2004. AFP has been working independently and collaboratively with other fundraising-related organizations to develop materials to help members understand the new law and ensure their organizations are in compliance.

Mailing List Rental information for members and nonmembers
The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) is the professional association for development executives who work for nonprofit organizations. Renting the AFP membership list can offer your firm exposure to over 27,000 executive decision makers who are constantly seeking new resources, ideas and services, as well as professional assistance, to enhance and strengthen their efforts in raising philanthropic dollars. The AFP membership list is selectable by type of nonprofit, member type, geographic location, chapter, gender, and birth date.

Chapters Encouraged To Host AFP Courses In Their Communities
(June 6, 2003) - AFP chapters can provide their members with exemplary, proven fundraising training by hosting an AFP beginning fundraising course or CFRE exam preparation course.

AFP Foundation for Philanthropy - Canada: Alpha Society, A Sustaining Monthly Giving Program
The AFP Foundation for Philanthropy - Canada offers its Alpha Society, a sustaining monthly giving program that provides a convenient and timely way to support philanthropy and the fundraising profession.

Biography: Maretta Emery, CA, CFRE, BA, Chair, AFP Foundation for Philanthropy - Canada
Meet Maretta Emery, CA, CFRE, BA, chair of the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy - Canada, who is the director of finance and gift planning of The Winnipeg Foundation in Winnipeg.

About the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy - Canada
Visit here to learn about the mission and role of the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy - Canada.

Survey Will Measure Use of Volunteers by U.S. Nonprofit Sector
(May 9, 2003) - A new national survey by the Bush Administration will evaluate how nonprofits use volunteers. The Corporation for National and Community Service, a part of USA Freedom Corps, announced the launch of a new survey on April 30.

Madigan Supreme Court Decision Not Expected to Have Major Impact
(May 9, 2003) - While many in the charitable sector feared that the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in Madigan vs. Telemarketing Associates might erode First Amendment rights for charities, AFP's analysis of the result shows that the case will probably not have broad consequences for the charitable sector.

Philly Chapter Recognized for Development Program
(May 2, 2003) - An educational program created by the Greater Philadelphia Chapter has been approved for .25 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) by the AFP Continuing Education (CE) Review Board.

Canadian Nonprofits See Websites as Important Tools
(April 25, 2003) - Canadian nonprofits recognize the vital role websites can play in their organizations, according to a new survey.

Nonprofits Have Major Impact Around the Globe
(April 25, 2003) - A new report provides an overview of the nonprofit sector in 35 countries, including data on countries in Africa, Asia and the Middle East.

Nonprofits Facing Tax Demands From Local Government
(April 25, 2003) - Nonprofits in some states are facing the possibility of cutbacks or closure, but their problems do not stem directly from the poor U.S. economy. Instead, their budget difficulties have popped up because their local governments are seeking to tax them despite their nonprofit status.

Final New York Fundraising Rules More Positive for Charities
(April 21, 2003) - In a partial victory for the fundraising profession, modifications have been made to the final version of new regulations in New York concerning the registration and reporting requirements for charities and professional fundraisers.

Advancing Philanthropy's March/April 2003 issue
Sample the best of Advancing Philanthropy's March/April 2003 issue here.

Survey Shows Disconnect Between Nonprofit Senior Management and IT and Development Teams Regarding Technology
(April 4, 2003) - Nonprofit leaders are not making technology a priority in their organizations, although they believe that technology can lead to greater fundraising success and improve how their organizations operate, according to a new survey by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) and Telosa Software Inc., a fundraising software provider.

States Considering Nonprofit Accountability Changes
(April 4, 2003) - While the public furor over Enron and other corporate accountability controversies has lessened with media coverage of the war in Iraq and concerns over the economy, the impact of such scandals may just be starting to hit the charitable sector.

New Survey Examines Canadian Fundraising Profession
(April 4, 2003) - The first comprehensive look at the fundraising profession in Canada was unveiled recently by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) and the Canadian Policy Research Networks (CPRN).

Fundraising 101 Series Aimed At New Development Professionals
(Feb. 27, 2003) - If you have recently started in the fundraising profession, a new series of workshops is just what you are looking for! The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), the Washington, DC Metro Area AFP Chapter and The Washington Council of Agencies (WCA) are co-sponsoring four workshops in 'Fundraising 101: Building on the Essentials' between May and November 2003, in Washington, D.C.

Excerpts from the January/February 2003 issue of Advancing Philanthropy
Sample the best of Advancing Philanthropy's January/February issue here.

Ethics Enforcement: Handling and Preventing Unethical Behavior
From the January/February 2003 issue of Advancing Philanthropy... The stature of any self-regulated profession depends on how successfully it enforces ethical standards. Professional codes embody not just codifications of right and wrong but also the calling's ideals, aspirations, and sense of trusteeship for society. AFP's Code of Ethical Principles and Standards of Professional Practice, which includes detailed enforcement procedures, clearly expresses the association's vision of philanthropy promoted through responsible fundraising.

Evaluating the Giving Climate in 2002 and Beyond
Five leaders in the nonprofit sector met following the Delegate Assembly in October 2002 to review the past year's special challenges and look ahead to fundraising in 2003.

Gift or Gamble? With Accountability, Donors Should Never Have a Doubt
Stewardship may be 'what you do when no one is looking,' but today people want to see clear signs of it.

Thank You
Thank you for taking part in this important survey.

Biography: William B. Hanrahan, Chair, AFP Foundation for Philanthropy
Meet Bill Hanrahan, chair of the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy, who is the President and CEO of Community Counselling Service Co., Inc. in New York.

Successful AFP/Advantage partnership benefits foundations
WASHINGTON (AFP eWire - Jan. 31, 2003) - In 2002, the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy partnered with Advantage Consulting, Fairfield, N.J., to assist in the administration, education and cultivation of the largest component of the Annual Fund, the Every Member Campaign (EMC). The deadline to receive payments towards the 2002 EMC was extended to Feb. 15, 2003.

AFP submits comments on proposed Form 990 changes
(Jan. 28, 2003) - On Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2003, the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) submitted formal comments to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regarding its proposed changes to the Form 990, including clarifications about how fundraising costs are reported.

2006 AFP Foundation for Philanthropy board of directors
Donald W. Taylor, CFRE, Chair of the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy board of directors, heads a talented, experienced, and diverse group of leaders who will guide the Foundation in 2006.

Ontario Privacy Bill Unexpectedly Stalled for the Year
(Dec. 20, 2002) - In a surprising development, privacy legislation will not be considered in Ontario this year as the legislature there adjourned last week without considering the bill.

Chapter Spotlight: Baja California Chapter Growing Quickly
(Dec. 20, 2002) - For the AFP Baja California Chapter, it was the First Course on Fundraising that got them interested in the organization and all it has to offer. Since then, the Chapter, which is only one year old, is growing quickly and has set high ambitions for the coming years. Available in Spanish.

Finance Committee Recommends Complete Elimination Of Capital Gains Tax
(Dec. 13, 2002) - Canada's Standing Committee on Finance has recommended to the federal government that the capital gains tax be completely eliminated for gifts of qualified securities to charity.

Chapter Spotlight: Conference Sparks New Chapter in Indiana
(Dec. 13, 2002) - Attending the International Conference as a Chamberlain Scholar, Jeffrey Garrett was excited to partake of the educational sessions and stroll through the Exposition on Fundraising and Philanthropy. But a chance encounter with a fellow colleague led to the creation of the AFP Northeast Indiana chapter a few months later. This is their story.

Canadian Efforts, Think Tank Discussed at Research Symposium
(Nov. 22, 2002) - Ongoing research on Canadian fundraisers and results from the past year's Think Tank on Fundraising were the top agenda items at the latest AFP Research Symposium held last month.

The Five Pillars of Fundraising Success from Somalia
As Esalimba and Bruty paint a vivid picture of community life, they show us that the pillars that sustain charities in Somalia are just as relevant for philanthropy professionals anywhere in the world.

Alliances: Strength in Numbers
Whether to focus on a one-shot project or to coalesce operations for the long haul, a less formal (but still carefully conceived and planned) coalition can produce results beyond the capacity of the individual members.

Good News: Fundraising Compensation Is Up
In the first quarter of 2002, AFP conducted its second annual Compensation and Benefits Survey of U.S. and Canadian fund-raisers. Here is a summary of the major findings.

Chapter Spotlight: Washington DC Metro Area Chapter Tops 1,000 Members
(Oct. 18, 2002) - The AFP Washington DC Metro Area Chapter recently announced that its membership has surpassed 1,000 members. The announcement was made at the chapter's annual Fundraising Days event.

Charting AFP's Course as an International Organization
In his capacities as both educa--tor and professional fundraiser, Steve W. Batson, EdD, CFRE, has led AFP with an unmatched combination of determination and finesse.

Giving Charities in Canada a Voice
OVER THE PAST FEW MONTHS, a debate has been brewing in Canada about publicly registered charities and their role in advocacy and lobbying. These organizations are limited to spending only 10 percent of their annual budget on lobbying activities. That policy is known as the '10 percent rule.'

The Irrepressible Ebby Halliday-Acers
HER LIFE ECHOES the legendary Horatio Alger stories, and Ebby Halliday-Acers recalls reading a few of them in her one-room schoolhouse.

Excerpts from the September/October 2002 issue of Advancing Philanthropy
Sample the best of Advancing Philanthropy's September/October issue here.

Planned-Giving Programs & the Small Nonprofit: Getting Started - Full Version
PLANNED GIVING TODAY ISN'T THE DOMAIN solely of large nonprofits that can afford to hire financial and legal specialists. Many small nonprofits with one or two fundraising professionals are launching successful programs or expanding their informal efforts.

Planned-Giving Programs & the Small Nonprofit: Getting Started - Part Four
PLANNED GIVING TODAY ISN'T THE DOMAIN solely of large nonprofits that can afford to hire financial and legal specialists. Many small nonprofits with one or two fundraising professionals are launching successful programs or expanding their informal efforts.

Planned-Giving Programs & the Small Nonprofit: Getting Started - Part Two
PLANNED GIVING TODAY ISN'T THE DOMAIN solely of large nonprofits that can afford to hire financial and legal specialists. Many small nonprofits with one or two fundraising professionals are launching successful programs or expanding their informal efforts.

Itemized Charitable Contributions Up Six Percent from 1999
(Aug. 29, 2002) The average amount of itemized charitable contributions reported on tax returns increased to $3,636 in 2000, compared with $3,441 in 1999, according to the third quarter 2002 Giving USA Update from the AAFRC Trust for Philanthropy. The new average represents a six percent increase from 1999.

Chapter Spotlight: Irish Delegation & Western New York Chapter Exchange Best Practices
(August 23, 2002) - A delegation of 12 fundraising and nonprofit executives from Ireland and Northern Ireland visited the AFP Western New York Chapter in Buffalo, N.Y., this past June. The visit was part of a special tour to learn and exchange ideas about fundraising.

Chapter Spotlight: Chicago Tops 1,000 Members
(August 9, 2002) - For the first time in the history of AFP, a chapter has surpassed 1,000 members. The AFP Chicago Chapter achieved this milestone last month.

Chapter Spotlight: Virginia-Hampton Roads
(July 19, 2002) - The charitable sector in the United States is growing, and so are AFP chapters. The AFP, Virginia-Hampton Roads Chapter celebrated its one-year anniversary on July 14, 2002. Hampton Roads is the 160th AFP chapter worldwide.

Think Tank Explores Changing Philanthropic Communities
Fundraising leaders and scholars gathered at Saint Mary's College in Notre Dame, Indiana, in June 2002 to discuss a variety of topics related to clarifying the responsibilities and roles of fundraising professionals in diverse cultural and giving environments.

Is Direct Mail Working?
Even though direct mail is still quite effective, its success has waned somewhat in the past decade. To keep direct mail working for your organization, you need to keep up with design trends and adjust to the challenges facing direct mail.

Consultants Can Grow Nonprofit Fundraising Programs
There are many possible reasons for going outside your organization's expertise for help. You may need a fresh perspective in evaluating traditional fundraising programs and coming up with new giving options. Here are some pointers.

AFP Foundation for Philanthropy 2002 Committees
AFP's Foundation for Philanthropy committee members for 2002.

AFP Participates in FTC Discussion on 'Do Not Call' List
(June 6, 2002) As part of a three-day forum before the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), representatives AFP argued this week that the FTC's proposed national 'do not call' list should not apply to for-profit telemarketers calling on behalf of charities.

Helping to Shape the Next Generation of Leaders: Camille Hobbie Townsend
Summit School offered just what Camille Hobbie Townsend, CFRE, needed back in 1983: a job in fundraising. Townsend was hired as the first development officer at Summit. It felt like home then, and she's still there.

Gender-related salary differences among philanthropic fundraisers: How are women faring?
According to the AFP 2000-2001 Compensation and Benefits Survey is the gender-related disparity in average annual professional fundraising income for 1999-2000. The average U.S. salary for men was $77,978, compared with $53,592 for women.

Are you prepared for the donors in your future?
The donors of the next decade and beyond will set their own terms. Their philanthropy won't be on their parents' terms or even on your terms--no matter how well you've done in the past at explaining the way your charity prefers to receive donations.

Excerpts from the May/June 2002 issue of Advancing Philanthropy
Sample the best of Advancing Philanthropy's May/June issue here.

Who should regulate nonprofits?
Some level of government regulation of the nonprofit sector is warranted. But should the states be primarily responsible for such regulation as they are now, or should the federal government assume chief responsibility?

Excerpts from the March/April 2002 issue of Advancing Philanthropy
Sample the best of Advancing Philanthropy's March/April issue here.

AFP International Conference 2002'Food for thought
The impact on fundraising of the Internet, globalization, and new donor demographics are among the key issues addressed at this spring's International Conference on Fundraising.

Giving's transformational power
Gail Freeman believes in the power of philanthropy to generate positive change. Genuine passion for this work underscores her commitment to AFP's Foundation for Philanthropy, which advances philanthropy through education, advocacy, and training.

Laws and Orders: Why Public Policy and Advocacy Should Matter to You
Policymakers affect nonprofits in very real ways fundraisers may not realize. But we can't afford to ignore the implications of government oversight, from antiterrorism measures to taxes.

2002 AFP Foundation for Philanthropy Board of Directors
The 2002 leadership of the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy is listed here.

The fundraising software vendors at-a-glance
A roundup of top fundraising software vendors

The Giving Climate: New Normalcy, New Vigilance
It's undeniable: The catastrophic attacks of September 11 set in motion consequences that will continue to affect us all for the foreseeable future. Learn where we are, what's ahead, and advice for the worried.

Fundraising Outside the Box: Canada
Canada -- a 'mosaic' of strategies for regional and demographic challenges.

Working with Software Vendors: Helping Them Help You
Acquiring new fundraising software and upgrades can help nonprofit organizations toward greater productivity, and may make it possible to offer more responsive donor services without increasing staffing levels. But finding the right vendor match and the right mix of products can seem daunting. Assess your organization's needs and survey the options before you pick up a phone to ask for a demo

Working with Software Vendors: Helping Them Help You
Assess your organization's needs and survey the options before you pick up a phone to ask for a demo.

Chapter awards honor the best in diversity, public service and communications
(January 2002) - AFP annually honors chapters whose contributions and dedication to philanthropy have made a significant impact upon the association and the profession -- specifically in the fields of diversity, public service & communications.

Chapter Spotlight on New Jersey Chapter
Since 1994, the AFP - New Jersey Chapter has been coordinating its Youth in Philanthropy program. What started out as a pilot program in one school has turned into an education-based project of 14 schools throughout the state.

Excerpts from the September/October 2001 issue of Advancing Philanthropy
Sample the best of Advancing Philanthropy's September/October issue here!

Handling the Passive CEO and the Competitive Colleague
Dedication to the common good defines us as fundraisers. This is the place to come for advice that will contribute to the common good we develop day by day with our colleagues.

International Fundraising: When Aid Is a World Away
The word globalization is tossed around often enough. What does it mean to your nonprofit and to your career? What comes to mind first for some fundraisers is the way email and a Web presence can attract brand-enhancing attention and pull in donors well beyond the geographic boundaries of their cause.

Comparing Political and Charitable Fundraising
The intersection between nonprofit and political fundraising is rarely explored. One of the best ways of 'getting better at what we do' is to assess that very intersection. It offers rich opportunities to learn across traditional disciplinary lines, to share best practices, and to promote professional, ethical conduct.

Excerpts from the March/April 2001 issue of Advancing Philanthropy
Sample the best of Advancing Philanthropy's March/April issue here!

March/April: Compensation for Fundraisers: Closer to the Whole Story
What's the average compensation for a chief development officer in the Northeastern U.S.? What's the relationship between compensation and the size of the organization among healthcare nonprofits? These and many other questions are addressed in a new AFP study.

March/April: Fundraising And The New Wealth: A Reality Check
The new millionaires are here and making their presence felt, but Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller they're not. In the way they envision their philanthropic giving and strategize it as an integral part of their overall financial goals, the new moguls are breaking with many of the traditional models. That means new ground rules for fundraisers and expanded opportunities to bring about social progress.

Bringing Grant Makers & Nonprofits Together
AFP and various nonprofit organizations in Massachusetts have been collaborating on an effort called the Catalogue for Philanthropy, a compilation of background pieces on dozens of charitable organizations.

The Internet ? It's a Relationship Management Tool
Learn how you can start using the Internet strategically to meet your goals.

Hearts and Bytes: Technology and the Catholic Relief Services Mission
Catholic Relief Services wins the first-ever AFP/Commerce One Award for Outstanding Achievement in Internet Fundraising Award. Find out the criteria for success!

The Dot-Com Shakeout: Where Does It Leave Philanthropy?
Recent economic 'corrections' teach the importance of an integrated tech strategy -- and common sense.

High-Tech Donors: How Do They Give?

Ideas matter more than money to these donors -- and their money talks. This is an excerpt from the July/August 2001 Advancing Philanthropy feature, "Getting Better At What We Do."

Transforming Tragedy Through Philanthropy
George Aratani is making sure that the history and cultural heritage of Japanese Americans survive, and that scholarship thrives. This is an excerpt from the July/August 2001 Advancing Philanthropy feature, "The Donor's Turn."

What's Up with Special Events
Fitness-related events are personally challenging and fun for participants -- raising funds may even be beside the point. This is an excerpt from the July/August 2001 Advancing Philanthropy cover story.

Guidelines for conducting a needs assessment survey
Of all the elements of a successful educational activity, a well-thought-out needs assessment may be the most crucial. A needs assessment tells planners what learners need to learn, and it forms the basis for selection of content, instructors, teaching materials and methods, and even budgets.

AAFRC releases 2001 Giving USA Numbers
(May 23, 2001) George C. Ruotolo, Jr., CFRE, chair of the AAFRC Trust for Philanthropy has announced that total giving reached an estimated $203.45 billion for 2000, an increase of 6.6 percent over $190.79 billion in 1999.

Executive summary: High-tech donor study
(May 3, 2001) The 2001 High Tech Donors Study, sponsored by AFP, provides a picture of how high-tech philanthropists view their giving, the relationship between their business success and their charitable endeavors, and the long-range implications of their involvement in the nonprofit sector. Here is an executive summary.

AFP's research agenda and policy
The research agenda and policy for the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) is developed and periodically revised by the Association's Research Council, and reflects an effort to set priorities for research about issues of concern to the fundraising profession and wider philanthropic communities.

Member recruitment brochure text
Here is suggested text for Chapters to individualize, for use as a member recruitment brochure.

AFP Foundation for Philanthropy: 2004 Annual Fund Case for Support
The mission of the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy is to enhance philanthropy and volunteerism through programs of education, research and service that benefit those that lead, serve and support nonprofit institutions.

2009 AFP Compensation & Benefits Report
AFP's Compensation & Benefits Study provides valuable data on the characteristics of individual fundraisers – backgrounds, experience, and responsibilities – and paints a picture of the current state of the profession.

Guidance: Internet transaction fees
Numerous websites have been established to facilitate online donations to unrelated organizations. The majority of such websites are maintained by entities that are not themselves tax-exempt.

Position Paper: Percentage-Based Compensation
A 2001 position paper by the AFP Ethics Committee on why AFP prohibits members from accepting percentage-based compensation.

Position paper: Parity in the Fundraising Profession
Parity laws, policies, and procedures in fundraising are covered in this 1994 position paper by the NSFRE (now AFP) Parity Task Force.

Advertising in Advancing Philanthropy
Reach experienced professionals and senior decision-makers in the fundraising profession. Advertise in Advancing Philanthropy, AFP's highly respected and newly redesigned association magazine.

AFP description and purpose
The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) represents more than 30,000 members in 200 chapters throughout the world, working to advance philanthropy through advocacy, research, education and certification programs.  The association fosters development and growth of fundraising professionals and promotes high ethical standards in the fundraising profession. For more information or to join the world’s largest association of fundraising professionals.

AFP Sponsorship Program
Show your allegiance to the fundraising profession by supporting AFP today! Here's how your company can get involved.

Code of Ethics: the appeal process
The enforcement procedure includes an appeals process for members found guilty of violating the Code.

Code of Ethics: the complaint process
The complaint process permits any AFP member or person holding an AFP-sanctioned credential to report an alleged violation of the AFP Code of Ethical Principles and Standards.

Code of Ethics: enforcement principles
The fundamental goal of the procedures for enforcing the AFP Code of Ethical Principles and Standards is to eliminate unethical behavior, not to impose punishment.

Previous AFP Award Honorees
AFP is pleased to recognize past honorees of the AFP Awards Program.

Related Resources


AFP Merchandise
AFP Marketplace offers a select line of AFP logo products suitable for gifts: coffee mugs, travel mugs, pens, membership and NPD pins, briefcases and more.

Bookstore Showcase


AFP Series


More Professional Development Resources


May / June 2009

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