Advancing philanthropy by enabling people and organizations to practice ethical and effective fundraising

Happy Holidays from AFP, Inland Empire Chapter

Dear AFP Inland Empire Members and Friends,

As we come to the close of the year, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to each of you for your commitment to AFP and to the profession of philanthropy. This year has been a powerful reminder of the impact we can have when we come together—sharing knowledge, supporting one another, and leading with purpose.

Because of your engagement, generosity, and willingness to show up, our chapter continues to be a strong, vibrant community for fundraisers at every stage of their journey. Whether you attended programs, mentored a colleague, served on a committee, sponsored an event, or simply brought your curiosity and passion to the table—your contributions matter and are deeply appreciated.

As we look ahead to the new year, I am excited about what’s possible. Together, we will continue to strengthen our chapter, elevate our profession, and champion ethical, effective philanthropy in our community.

Thank you for all that you do and for the difference you make every day. Wishing you a restful holiday season and a joyful, inspiring start to the new year.

With gratitude,

Alyssa Cotter

Chair, AFP Inland Empire Chapter

Reflecting on National Philanthropy Day

by Krystle Joseph, National Philanthropy Day Chair

National Philanthropy Day on November 18 was a truly meaningful celebration of generosity, leadership, and impact across the Inland Empire. It was a privilege to serve as National Philanthropy Day Chair, working with our AFP-IE team to help convene such a strong and connected philanthropic community, and to recognize the individuals and organizations whose work continues to move our region forward. With U.S. Bank serving as our Presenting Sponsor and the IEHP Foundation as our Event Host, the day reflected the depth, diversity, and shared values of philanthropy in the Inland Empire.

We were proud to recognize the following 2025 National Philanthropy Day Award Winners:



• Rising Changemaker Award: Joshua Tejada
• Professional Fundraiser of the Year: Ray W. Watts
• Community Champion of the Year: Randall Lewis
• Philanthropist of the Year: John & Elizabeth Leonard Family Foundation
• Lifetime Achievement in Philanthropy: Awarded in memory of Rowena & James Ramos

Each honoree represents a powerful example of leadership, generosity, and long-term commitment to community well-being. Alongside an exceptional group of nominees, these awardees remind us that philanthropy—at every stage and scale—has the power to strengthen lives and shape the future of the Inland Empire.



Event photos are now available and capture the spirit of connection and celebration throughout the day:

Congratulations again to our honorees, and thank you to everyone who helped make National Philanthropy Day a meaningful and memorable gathering. We look forward to celebrating together again next year.

2026 Board of Directors

Congratulations to the 2026 AFP Inland Empire Chapter Board of Directors!

Chamberlain Scholarship

AFP, Inland Empire Chapter is excited to announce that we are now accepting applications for the 2026 Chamberlain Scholarship. Each year AFP Foundation for Philanthropy offers one registration scholarship to qualified chapters for the Annual AFP International Conference on Fundraising (ICON). This program is designed to help individuals serving nonprofit organizations develop their knowledge and skills in fundraising. The scholarship honors the memory of Ralph E. Chamberlain, CFRE.

AFP ICON, AFP’s flagship “International Conference,” is held each year and brings together nearly 4,000 fundraising professionals to discuss important trends and issues related to fundraising and philanthropy, with a focus on fundraising practice and technique. 

The 2026 AFP ICON will be held April 26-28, 2026 in San Diego, California.

One candidate will be chosen by our Chapter Scholarship Committee to receive a scholarship toward registration for the AFP International Fundraising Conference on Philanthropy.  Registration fees, except for a $10 payment to secure registration, are paid by the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy.  

Be The Cause - Last Chance to Give

Philanthropy has the power to transform society, and fundraisers, like you, play a major role in this process. The BE the CAUSE Campaign embodies the importance and impact of a profession that values ethical and effective fundraising in the world and works in the interest of the public good. The campaign demonstrates what fundraisers do and why we do it.

Your gift is a strategic investment in your chapter and the AFP Foundation for Philanthropy, supporting key initiatives such as:

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

To attract fundraisers and donors who reflect the diverse communities of our society.

PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION AND LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

To help fundraising professionals succeed at all stages of their careers.

RESEARCH

To increase knowledge of philanthropy for effective fundraising practices.

SCHOLARSHIPS

To provide fundraisers with educational and networking opportunities.

The AFP Inland Empire Chapter will receive a grant of 35% of funds donated to Be The Cause from the AFP Foundation. This grant is used by the chapter for local programs and initiatives.

Job Postings

Associate Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations, Keck Graduate Institute

Assistant Director, Alumnae Relations Mount Saint Mary's University

Vice President For University Advancement Azusa Pacific University

Operations Manager The Girlfriend Factor (GFF)

Interested in posting a position with AFP Inland Empire? Click here for more details.

View All Activities...