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Greater Dallas AFP Newsletter

August 2026


In This Issue

  • President's Message
  • August 26 Luncheon Program
  • AFP Advocacy Week is August 3-7
  • Meet This Month's Emerging Leader!
  • 2026 National Philanthropy Day Celebration

President's Message

Never Stop Learning

Hello, Friends!


August has always felt like the unofficial start of a new season. Even long after our school days are behind us, there's something about this time of year that invites us to reset our routines, refocus on our goals, and recommit to learning.

One of the habits that has served me well throughout my career is choosing to remain a student. I've learned that some of the best ideas don't come from having all the answers—they come from staying curious, asking questions, and being willing to learn from others. Whether it's a conference session, a conversation over coffee, or simply hearing how another fundraiser approaches a challenge, I've found that there's always something new to take away.


That's one of the reasons I value AFP Greater Dallas so much. Our chapter is filled with professionals who generously share their experiences, ideas, and perspectives, making it easier for all of us to grow together.


This month offers several opportunities to do exactly that. We'll join colleagues across the country during AFP Advocacy Week, explore the growing role of Donor Advised Funds, invest in our Emerging Leaders, and come together again at our monthly luncheon. Each event is another opportunity to learn, connect, and strengthen our profession.


As the pace of the fall fundraising season begins to pick up, I encourage you to embrace the mindset of a lifelong learner. You never know which conversation, idea, or relationship will become the catalyst for your next breakthrough, or help you better serve the mission you care so deeply about.


Stay cool out there!


Evan White

Greater Dallas AFP President 2026

August 26 Luncheon Program

The Gild (South Tower next to DoubleTree Hotel)

8150 N Central Expressway, Room Mezzanine 1008

Dallas, TX 75206 

Major Gifts: Identifying The "YES" You Are After

The first step of major gift fundraising is determining the "yes" you're looking for! If done correctly, major donors will be asking YOU, rather than you asking them. Join Paul A. Dunne, CFRE, Principal of The NonProfit Group, for this presentation packed with information you need to know about preparing for your meetings, honoring donors' interests, and how to get one yes to lead to more!

About Our Speaker

Paul A. Dunne, CFRE, is CEO & Founder of The Non-Profit Group in Dallas and former Executive VP at Catapult Fundraising, where he headed up multiple campaigns and led nonprofits, universities, hospitals, and churches to build greater donor capacity. He has served as the Chief Development Officer for North Hawaii Community Hospital and The Kempe Foundation and as Executive Director of Development at Inner City Health Center. Paul attended Howard Payne University and returned to his alma mater to serve as their VP of Advancement. Paul has served on the AFP International Board and is the former AFP International Fundraising Board Chair. He currently serves on the board for other national ministries and nonprofits. He is a past president of the Greater Dallas Chapter AFP, was awarded the Colorado Chapter AFP Outstanding Fundraiser award. Paul is an in-demand speaker for fundraising conferences and AFP chapters across the country.


IF YOU ARE ALREADY A 2026 LUNCHEON PROGRAM SUBSCRIBER: First and foremost, thank you! If you are a 2026 subscriber to Dallas AFP educational luncheon programs you are pre-registered. If you cannot attend, you may send a colleague in your place!

Learn more and register now for this upcoming event!

Members and non-members are welcome! Discounted rates for emerging leaders age 35 or under and/or with 5 years or less experience as a fundraising professional, member or non-member.



  • $50 for non-members
  • $35 for members
  • $30 for emerging leaders, members or non-members, 35 and under or with 5 or fewer years fundraising experience

It's AFP U.S. Chapter Advocacy Week, and AFP Global is asking all U.S. chapters to visit at least one member of Congress and/or their staff during this week or anytime in August, virtually or in-person, to discuss issues important to the nonprofit sector. If you can’t visit, you can always call or email their offices to speak up for the initiatives that are outlined in the AFP Global link below. 


Don’t know your rep?

Use this quick link

Learn More & Get Involved: afpglobal.org/advocacyweek

Dallas AFP Emerging Leader Spotlight

This month, we're highlighting Chelsea Zeno of Vogel Alcove. Since joining the organization's Development team last year, Chelsea has excelled in Volunteer and Community Engagement, building meaningful relationships with volunteers and championing Vogel Alcove's mission. Drawing on her previous experience as a leader on Vogel's Family Support team, she brings a unique perspective to fundraising and community engagement. Recently becoming a provisional member of the Junior League of Dallas, Chelsea continues to invest in her professional growth while inspiring others through her generosity, enthusiasm, and dedication to serving children and families.

41st Annual National Philanthropy Day Celebration

Member News


If you've earned your CFRE or been recertified recently and want to share the great news, let us know! afpchapteroffice@afpdallas.org