July/August 2026 Newsletter | |
AADO Connect Is Coming to a Community Near You
There’s something special about standing in a space where you know community will soon gather.
A few weeks ago, AADO Founder Birgit Burton and Conference Manager, Donna Stewart, visited Southern Illinois University, the site of the AADO Connect Carbondale, and got a firsthand look at the space where we’ll gather to learn, connect, and build community. They returned energized, excited, and ready to have an amazing time in November!
AADO Connect is about more than coming together for a conference. It is an opportunity for fundraising professionals to learn together, strengthen relationships, share experiences, and build community closer to home.
And Carbondale is just one of the communities where we’re gathering.
With AADO Connect events happening across the country, we hope you’ll find one near you and join us. We also invite you to bring others into the experience.
Share an upcoming AADO Connect with a colleague, forward this newsletter to someone in your network, or personally invite a fundraising professional who could benefit from being in community with AADO.
Sometimes one invitation is all it takes to help someone find their way into a community where they belong.
(There are still a few discounted registrations remaining. Use code AADO100 to get $100 off )
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Congratulations to the 2026 AADO Connect Scholars!
These outstanding fundraising professionals are advancing philanthropy, strengthening communities, and leading with purpose across the country. We are proud to recognize their impact, leadership, and commitment to creating meaningful change. Please join us in celebrating this incredible cohort!
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Your AADO Story
Behind every fundraiser is a story of purpose, perseverance, and impact. AADO Stories celebrate the diverse journeys of our members and the ways they are advancing philanthropy, strengthening communities, and creating opportunities for others.
We invite you to learn more about Lisa Scott - in her own words.
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"My journey into fundraising didn’t begin with a title. It began with a deep belief that communities deserve access to opportunity, and that the right resources, when directed thoughtfully, can transform lives."
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What is Your AADO Story
Share your journey, your work, and the impact you’re making. Submissions are now open, and selected member stories will be featured throughout the year.
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MOCID Is on the Move!
The Men of Color in Development (MOCID) continues to grow as one of AADO's most dynamic affinity groups. Today, more than 500 fundraising professionals are part of this thriving community, dedicated to supporting, mentoring, and elevating men of color in the fundraising profession.
Across the country, MOCID members are making an impact. They are presenting at national and regional conferences, serving as panelists and keynote speakers, consulting with organizations, and sharing their experiences to help strengthen the profession and inspire the next generation of fundraising leaders.
The momentum is growing—and so is the community. Interested in becoming part of MOCID? Whether you're an experienced fundraising leader or just beginning your career, there's a place for you.
Click here to learn more about MOCID and become a member.
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Black Philanthropy Month Is Here, And It's Here To Stay.
In recognition of Black Philanthropy Month, Mide (Olumide) Akerewusi invites us to expand how we understand philanthropy and whose traditions shape fundraising practice.
In Black Philanthropy Month Is Here, And It’s Here to Stay, he explores the deep history and growing influence of African and Black generosity, from giving circles and mutual aid to remittances and other community-centered traditions that are often left out of traditional fundraising education and strategy.
He challenges fundraisers and philanthropic leaders to move beyond simply recognizing Black philanthropy in August and instead pay attention, document, amplify, and build practices that reflect the many ways generosity shows up in Black communities year-round.
For AADO members and fundraising professionals, the article offers an opportunity to consider how greater curiosity about Black philanthropic traditions can strengthen the way we understand donors, communities, and the future of our profession.
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In recognition of Black Philanthropy Month, Tommy Amal, MS, CFRE, reflects on the history and lasting impact of Black generosity and what it asks of those of us working across fundraising and philanthropy today.
His piece invites us to move beyond recognition and celebration toward action: supporting Black-led organizations, mobilizing resources, opening doors, building relationships, and sustaining our investment in Black communities.
We invite you to take a few minutes to read and reflect: Black Philanthropy: From Recognition to Lasting Impact.
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Coming in the September/October
AADO Newsletter
Our volunteers don't just support AADO—they are AADO. Their leadership, generosity, and commitment are the foundation of everything we accomplish together.
Behind every AADO program, conference, webinar, and networking opportunity is a dedicated team of volunteers who generously share their time, expertise, and passion to strengthen our community.
In the September/October issue, we'll proudly introduce the outstanding leaders who have stepped forward to serve AADO, including:
- The inaugural members of the AADO Advisory Board
- The AADO Connect Planning Committees for:
- Los Angeles, California
- Atlanta, Georgia
- Carbondale, Illinois
- Old Westbury, New York
- The newest members of the AADO Board of Directors
These volunteers represent colleges and universities, healthcare organizations, nonprofits, consulting firms, and philanthropic organizations from across the country. Together, they are helping shape the future of AADO and ensuring our members continue to receive exceptional professional development, networking, and leadership opportunities.
Be sure to watch for the September/October newsletter as we recognize these remarkable individuals and celebrate their commitment to advancing the fundraising profession.
| | Resources and Opportunities | |
Become an AADO Plus Member
Consider upgrading your membership to AADO Plus and be part of the movement year-round. Plus member benefits include:
- Invitations to Plus-only events
- Professional development & resources
- Priority registration and select discounts
- Expanded networking & mentorship access
Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your skills, expand your network, and make a difference in the world of fundraising.
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