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One of my favorite lines in poetry is from R.S. Thomas: "Today's sermon was about God's relationship with man, and tonight's is on man's relationship with God, and eternity yawned."
Ever feel that way at a continuing education event? Like you're hearing the same things on repeat? The same buzzwords, the same frameworks, the same case studies you could probably recite in your sleep by now. Haven't we heard it all before?
Here's the thing – maybe we're asking the wrong question.
Over the years, I've realized that the real value of a conference isn't always about brand-new information. Sure, that's great when it happens, but there's so much more going on. I've found that showing up to these gatherings accomplishes things we don't always anticipate:
1) They affirm our thinking and leadership – Sometimes you just need to hear that you're on the right track and that your instincts are solid. There's real power in that validation, especially when you're making tough calls in your organization.
2) They remind us we're not alone – Let's be honest: this work can feel isolating. Being in a room with people who get it – who understand the struggles, the wins, the weird situations that come up – that's invaluable.
3) We learn from other attendees – Some of the best insights don't come from the stage. They come from the person sitting next to you at lunch who mentions an approach you'd never considered, or the hallway conversation where someone shares how they solved a problem you're currently wrestling with.
4) And occasionally? We learn something that completely changes everything – Every once in a while, you hear something that shifts your entire perspective. A new way of thinking, a connection you hadn't made, an idea that makes you want to rush back to your desk and reimagine how you do your work.
The Philanthropy is Action Conference is right around the corner, and if you haven't RSVP'd yet, now is the time. Whether you're brand new to the nonprofit world or you've been doing this work for decades, there's real value in coming together to learn, share, and connect with others who are in the trenches with you.
Looking forward to learning alongside you,
Trey Harper, CFRE
2026 AFP Fort Worth Metro Chapter President
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