Greater Arizona Chapter 2008 President's Message

I recently had the privilege of attending a meeting of the International AFP Board of Directors in Mexico City. It was tremendous to meet the staff, many of whom had just been a name on an email until that time!  I was impressed with their dedication to the Association along with their great talents and professionalism. The Board of Directors are an extraordinary group of volunteers from all over the world, it was fascinating to learn the different perspectives and approaches to fundraising in varied countries. During the meeting staff shared preliminary results of a membership survey, completed earlier this year.  It was very clear that primary reasons for membership focus on networking and educational opportunities made available through AFP.

These are both excellent reasons for joining AFP…and the reason I joined myself. However, over the years I have come to appreciate an extraordinary range of benefits available to us. Through the AFP Greater Arizona Chapter you have access to a Resume Counseling Service to improve your job opportunities when you decide it’s time to advance your career. Additionally, the AFP Survey Course in Fundraising prepares you for the important CFRE credentialing exam. For those planning on a career in fundraising there is the ASU Collegiate Chapter along with the Professional Mentoring Program to support upcoming professionals.

This is just a sample of local services available to members which are supplemented by the opportunities available through the International AFP.  Just take a moment to visit both the chapter and International website where you will find links to resource directories, newsletters, latest public policy actions related to fundraising and much, much more.

The case is clear.  For all fundraisers who consider themselves professionals…and we all do…membership in AFP is vital to our personal success and the integrity of our profession. 

Take a moment to review all of your benefits with membership. You’ll find a lot more than you expected….and encourage your peers to join AFP as well!

All the best

Hazel F. Richards, CFRE