Thank you for being part of AFP Advancement Northwest’s community throughout 2022!
The last few years have brought unexpected changes to the nonprofit and fundraising field in ways that we could not have imagined. From changing how we work, where we work (wait, we don’t need to spend hours each week stuck commuting in traffic???), to prioritizing what we as employees need to make the wonderful work that we do possible, the changes have been aplenty (and at times, very overdue!).
However, one thing that has not changed is the immense passion those who remain in our field have for the work that we do, and the fact that our chapter continues to be a vital source of connection, support, and personal and professional growth for fundraisers who are making an impact in our community. Thank you for being an important part of this community.
Some highlights from 2022:
- Free learning opportunities (held both virtually and in-person) including “Making the Most of Mentoring,” “The good and bad of crypto donation,” and “Difficult Donor Conversations.”
- Networking socials held in both Whatcom County and in the Seattle-area provided connection and community and the opportunity to gather for the first time in-person in a number of years.
- Our Annual Conference in June 2022, The Future of Fundraising, explored future directions in philanthropy and how fundraisers can respond to recent shifts in the fundraising world. Thought-provoking discussions challenged us to reconsider the meaning of philanthropy and how we define giving.
- National Philanthropy Day in November 2022, “’A rising tide lifts all boats,’ or does it?” was a sold-out event that featured dynamic BIPOC leaders who highlighted work in increasing organizational impact, lifting up diverse voices, and celebrating our successes, especially in the face of challenges during turbulent times.
- Through our ongoing mentorship program, our more than 45 participants are cultivating rich and meaningful relationships that foster new leaders and create a thriving nonprofit community.
Our chapter also continued to examine our internal operations to make sure we are actively working toward a better, more equitable future for the field of fundraising. One way is exploring a shared power co-leadership model, and we are excited that after serving as co-Presidents-Elect in 2022, B. Michelle Johnson and Javier Womeldorff will assume the role of co-Presidents of AFP Advancement Northwest in January 2023!
This work would not be possible if it were not for our incredible Board of Directors, our hard working and dedicated Committee members, and all our dedicated and passionate volunteers. Working in the nonprofit and fundraising field can be hard enough as it is, but this group of special individuals chose to dedicate their precious free moments offering their time to make our field, and community, a better place. It takes a special kind of person to share their time and care in this way, and we are lucky to have each of them helping make this work possible.
As we bring in the new year, we have much to look forward to and hope you will consider joining us to make our field, our community, and our world a better place. Thank you for being a part of this incredible community of passionate fundraisers making a difference in the communities you serve!