|
During times of uncertainty—whether on the international stage, within our nation, or in our local communities—it is easy to feel isolated or to respond to challenges out of fear or insecurity. But now, more than ever, is the time for us to come together as fundraisers, nonprofit leaders, and changemakers.
Our work is built on connection. It thrives when we
link arms, when we reach out to lift each other up, and when we remind ourselves that we are not alone in this mission. By coming together—sharing our struggles as well as our successes—we create a space where we can listen, support, and simply "be" in community with one another.
Each of you carries the incredible responsibility of driving impact and change for the causes you serve. That requires courage, creativity, and, at times, vulnerability. It’s okay to lean on one another in these moments. Together, we are stronger. Together, we can rise above uncertainty, find purpose, and continue making a difference.
As we look ahead, I encourage all of us to seek out opportunities to connect. Whether through AFP chapter meetings, professional gatherings, or a simple conversation with a peer, these connections give us the strength and the inspiration to carry forward.
Thank you for the heart and passion you bring to your work every day. Know that you are part of a larger community that believes in your success and is here to support you.
With gratitude,
Warmest regards,
Cozy Faber
| |
Join the SLO Chapter of AFP Today! | |
Are you employed by, donate to, or serve on the board of a San Luis Obispo County nonprofit? If so, please consider joining our chapter. With your membership, you will enjoy a wealth of career-building programs, educational resources, networking opportunities and exclusive member discounts. Learn more.
For our nonprofit friends with small operating budgets under $2 million with less than 2 full time fundraising staff, you may want to consider a Small Nonprofit AFP membership. It’s only $125 plus a $60 chapter dues and is transferable if your development professional leaves, as opposed to the Individual Professional membership, which is $290 plus $45 in chapter dues.
| |
|
Coming Up This Month
Networking with Heart
| |
|
Join us for a brew-tiful start to your day at our Valentine’s-themed morning coffee mixer designed to foster meaningful connections among professionals. Start your day with engaging conversations, warm coffee, and the opportunity to build lasting relationships in a welcoming environment.
Date: February 13
Location: Joebella Coffee SLO, 311 Higuera Street, San Luis Obispo
Time: 8:30 – 10:00 AM
Registration Fee: $5
Enjoy complimentary coffee and pastries while supplies last, with additional items available for purchase. Come prepared to exchange ideas, build your network, and connect with others in the spirit of collaboration and community. Spread the word and join us for a latte fun—we can’t wait to see you there!
| |
|
Recap of our January Program
Engaging Your Board in the New Year
The January AFP SLO County luncheon was an inspiring start to the year, featuring nonprofit experts Loren Leidinger and Debby Nicklas. With decades of experience, they shared invaluable insights on engaging nonprofit boards to drive meaningful impact.
The pair emphasized that successful board engagement begins with recruitment. Identifying candidates with passion, productivity, and a mission-aligned skill set ensures a strong foundation. Following recruitment, onboarding must be memorable and mission-focused. Tactics like connecting new members with seasoned “board buddies” and hosting creative orientations can spark early engagement.
It is crucial to set clear expectations. Providing written job descriptions, signed board responsibility agreements, and clarifying roles as ambassadors, advocates, or askers helps members understand how to contribute effectively.
Ongoing engagement is a shared responsibility between nonprofit leaders and board members. We should run productive meetings, appreciate members’ contributions, and involve them in organizational storytelling. Meanwhile, board members can increase their impact by attending public events, engaging donors, and connecting prospects with the mission. Wearing a name tag at mixers, sharing organizational stories, and making personal gifts can further amplify their role as champions for the cause.
This session underscored the importance of a culture of philanthropy—where board members are not just participants but active drivers of organizational success.
| |
Did you know AFP Global offers the Fundraising Effectiveness Project (FEP), which tracks key metrics in the nonprofit sector, such as donor retention rates and gift trends? It’s an incredible resource for anyone looking to benchmark their organization’s performance against industry standards. You can find the latest report here. | |
Invite Your Board Members | |
|
Invite your board to join us on February 13th for our mixer—a perfect opportunity to show your board members how fundraising builds community and trust. It’s about connections, not just requests for support. Encourage them to see our dynamic, engaged community in action and inspire their commitment to making a difference together!
| |
Matthew Cottle Fellowship: Apply Now! | |
Do you know a young professional under 30 who is just entering the fundraising profession? If so, our AFP Chapter offers a special fellowship in honor of our founder Matthew Cottle. With the fellowship, the chosen young professional gets a membership to AFP for a year, and the registration fee covered to attend a national AFP event. Please encourage anyone you know to apply for this opportunity by April 1, 2025. | |
|
AFP San Luis Obispo County Chapter proudly connects individuals and organizations through job opportunities in development and fundraising on the Central Coast. Click here to learn more.
The Land Conservancy of SLO County
Fundraising Program Manager
Development Director
Lumina Alliance
Philanthropy Assistant
The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County
| |
AFP General Chapter Support Fund | |
Your donation to the San Luis Obispo County AFP General Chapter Support Fund will support a variety of initiatives aimed at fostering professional growth and networking opportunities for fundraising professionals in our community. If you'd like to support our chapter financially, please see the donation link below for more information. Thank you for your generosity! | |
AFP San Luis Obispo County Chapter
| | | | |
