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

Happy New Year from AFP, Inland Empire Chapter

Dear AFP Inland Empire Members,

Happy New Year! As we step into 2026, the AFP Inland Empire Chapter is energized and excited for what’s ahead—and most importantly, for you.

This year, AFP IE is proud to offer comprehensive educational opportunities designed to support fundraisers at every stage of their career. From skill-building workshops to leadership development and peer learning, our goal is simple: to help you grow, lead with confidence, and thrive in an ever-evolving philanthropic landscape.

Beyond professional development, we’re looking forward to connecting, collaborating, and building community with you throughout the year. AFP IE is more than a chapter—it’s a network of passionate professionals committed to each other’s success.

Get Involved: Volunteer with AFP IE in 2026

We’re also excited to launch our 2026 committees and are actively seeking volunteers who want to make an impact while expanding their own leadership experience. Whether you’re new to AFP or a longtime member, there’s a place for you.

We invite you to join one of the following committees:

• IDEA Committee – Advancing inclusion, diversity, equity, and access across our chapter
• NPD (National Philanthropy Day) Committee – Helping plan and elevate one of AFP’s signature celebrations
• Membership Committee – Strengthening engagement, recruitment, and member experience

Serving on a committee is a meaningful way to give back, build relationships, and shape the future of AFP IE.

We can’t wait to learn, connect, and grow together in 2026. Thank you for being part of this vibrant community—and here’s to a year of purpose, progress, and shared success.

Warm regards,

Alyssa Cotter

Chair, AFP Inland Empire Chapter

https://community.afpglobal.org/afpie/home

CFRE Overview 2026

Ready to take control of your fundraising career and earn the world’s only globally-recognized, accredited certification for fundraising professionals?

If you’ve ever contemplated becoming a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) but wanted to better understand the benefits and process, don’t miss this webinar presented by CFRE International Ambassador, Pegi Matsuda, MBA, CFRE.

CFREs in the U.S. earn 5 – 16% more than non-CFREs with comparable experience (Source: 2022 AFP Compensation & Benefits Report), while reporting enhanced professional opportunities and increased on-the-job confidence.

Join us for the webinar and you’ll learn about:

• Benefits of becoming a CFRE
• Eligibility requirements
• How to start and submit your application
• Cost CFRE exam overview
• Studying for the exam
• Recertification

Plus we'll have a live Q&A so you can get the answers you need. We hope you can join us!

This webinar is free to all attendees.

2026 Events & Programs

• February 12 – CFRE Webinar
• March – CFRE Review Course (4-weeks)
• March 17 – IDEA Chapter Meeting
• April 9 – Mixer at Redlands Public Market
• May 7 at SAC Health – “State of Philanthropy in the Inland Empire”
• Early June – NPD Kickoff
• June – IDEA Webinar
• July – Dark
• August – Mixer at Riverside Thompson Brewery
• September 10 at Hope Through Housing – Philanthropy Roundtable
• October – Ethics Webinar
• November – National Philanthropy Day
• December – Dark

2026 Board of Directors

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

AFP Global Upcoming Events

• AFP Deep Dive: CFRE Exam Compass Review Course (4-day series) (Feb. 2026) February 4-12, (ET)

• Sponsored Webinar — Growing Recurring Revenue in 2026: Building for a New Era of Sustainable Giving Feb 11, 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM (ET)



• AFP Members-Only - AFP/Korn Ferry Emerging Leaders Session: Navigating the First 90 Days Feb 12, 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM (ET)

Educational Webinars From our Friends at SCAHD

Be The Cause

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

Development Coordinator, Palm Springs Plaza Theatre Foundation

Major Gifts Officer, University of Redlands, Office of Advancement

Associate Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations, Keck Graduate Institute

Assistant Director, Alumnae Relations, Mount Saint Mary's University

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