Note from the President


Ah, spring is upon us! This refreshing time of year is an opportunity to shake off the winter layer, reflect on the past few months, and feel inspired for the work ahead.


In my first newsletter as President, I outlined some initiatives that were important to me. I am pleased with our efforts so far and look forward to our continued advancement as a chapter.


I am thrilled to announce that the Western NY chapter earned both the Ten Star and IDEA Champion designations! These recognitions are given to chapters who perform specific activities designed to increase professionalism within fundraising, increase IDEA principles, and provide public awareness of the importance of philanthropy. Many things are happening behind the scenes, and I cannot thank my Board of Directors enough for their tireless efforts.

         


To be a part of the great work happening, consider joining one of our committees. Committees are a great way to learn new skills, meet people from different backgrounds, and collaborate within the field we all care about.


I am pleased to spotlight Board of Directors member, Alexis Webster!

Major Gifts Officer, Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy


Besides the nonprofit you represent, what are other nonprofits you care about: Gerard Place is a nonprofit that is near and dear to my heart. I've gained so much exposure to Gerard Place from my time there as an employee, I really got the chance to see how much that organization has a positive impact on the community. The programs and services that Gerard Place offers helped many people in my close circle and community reach their goals. I also care about the Girls Sports Foundation here in Western New York. I dedicate a lot of my time to the mission of helping promote the importance of academic achievement, respect, self-confidence, healthy lifestyles, teamwork, and good sportsmanship through sports participation and mentoring among underserved girls.

 

Fun fact about Alexis: I applied for the chapter Chamberlain Scholarship to attend the AFP ICON this year and didn't receive it, but that did not deter me or make me give up. I then applied for the scholarship through AFP Foundation for Philanthropy for diverse and marginalized communities, and now I will be attending the AFP ICON event this year. Super excited to be awarded such a great opportunity to learn more about the fundraising profession and I look forward to applying all that I can soak up into my career as a Major Gifts Officer. Also, I have dived in a cenote in Mexico in 2018. 

Thank you for your dedication to the field!


Laura Dawidowicz, CFRE

President, AFP WNY Chapter

Register Now!


The Annual Fundraising & Networking Conference will take place on June 1 at Buffalo State University. Birgit Smith Burton will provide a keynote address on Diversity in Philanthropy: It’s No Longer One-Size-Fits-All. Looking forward to seeing you there!



Reminder! All members receive a $100 credit towards an AFP Global webinar (most are $79 so your member credit would cover the cost)! Learn more here







Member Spotlight


Spencer Morgan, CFRE 

Director of Development, Buffalo Zoo

 

Chapter involvement: I have been a member for several years and currently serve on the IDEA committee. I think it is important to stay connected and up to date on best practice and trends in our industry. There is no better way of doing that as a nonprofit professional then by taking advantage of the many opportunities for networking and professional development that AFP offers. A lifelong learner myself, I believe it is important for any professional to hone their craft and learn new and different ways to become better at what we do. Our AFP local chapter continues to be a strong resource for me as development professional, as well as a bridge for making connections across our region.


Fun fact: In 2020, my husband and I purchased a formerly abandoned 1940s-era home in Hamburg overlooking Lake Erie. We can often be found getting dirty restoring the house and its gardens.



Why become an AFP member? Here's why!

 


Are you interested in having thoughtful conversation with like-minded fundraising professionals related to various topics in fundraising? Point us in the right direction by completing this Affinity Groups form!


The AFP WNY Board of Directors will be participating in racial equity training provided by the Race Matters Institute to better educate ourselves and the practices we implement on behalf of the chapter. We look forward to sharing more with you in the following months.  



May 8 – Deadline for AFP ICON 2024 session proposals

May 11 - Webinar: Why Donor-Advised Funds are Changing the Game in 2023

May 25 – In-Person: Meet the Grantors Panel

June 1 – In-Person: Annual Fundraising & Networking Conference

June 6In-Person: Coffee & Conversation (Buffalo)

June 8 - Webinar: Creating Inclusive and Anti-Racist Workplace Cultures Where Women Of Color Can Thrive

June 15 In-Person: Coffee & Conversation (Ellicottville)

June 27 In-Person: Coffee & Conversation (Lewiston)

July 27 - Webinar: Multi-Channel Marketing (registration coming soon)

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Thank you for participating in our chapter and global programs!

Coffee & Conversations at Undergrounds Coffee House & Roastery




Webinar Watch Party at the United Way of Buffalo & Erie County




AFP ICON in New Orleans




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