Rose Holmes and Ta-Nehisi Coates engage in conversation at the 2025 AADO Conference in Atlanta, GA. 

The 2025 AADO Conference in Atlanta brought together a powerful community of fundraisers, leaders, and allies who showed up ready to connect, learn, and celebrate one another.

Over three days, we witnessed meaningful conversations, new partnerships, and countless moments of joy and affirmation.

The words we heard most often from attendees were “life changing,” “inspiring,” and “finally found my community.” These reflections remind us of why AADO exists.

This conference was more than an event; it was a reminder that we are stronger when we come together, share our stories, and lift each other up.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us in Atlanta, from long time members to first time attendees, to our generous sponsors and partners. Your presence and support are what make this movement possible.



We cannot wait to keep this energy going. Stay tuned for announcements about next year’s conference. We promise it will be another experience you will not want to miss.

Share Your Feedback

One of the most powerful parts of the AADO Conference is hearing directly from you. The reflections shared on LinkedIn and other platforms capture the spirit, impact, and energy of our time together better than we ever could. Below are just a few highlights from participants in their own words.

As we begin planning for next year, we would love to hear from you too. Please take a few minutes to complete our short survey and share your feedback. Your insights will help us shape an even more meaningful and impactful conference experience. 

Upgrade to AADO Plus

Now that you’ve experienced what AADO has to offer, consider upgrading your membership to AADO Plus and be part of the movement year-round. Explore benefits at aadonetwork.com.

• 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. We can't wait to see you there!

Captured Connections

Check out some photo's from the conference. These moments remind us that AADO isn’t just a network — it’s a community. Each smile, conversation, and connection from the event reflects the joy and power of showing up for one another.

2026 AADO Speaker Series

We are grateful to the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) for their partnership at this year’s AADO Conference and their ongoing commitment to supporting our community of fundraisers and changemakers.

If you’ve been thinking about joining AFP, now is the perfect time. As a conference attendee, you have access to exclusive discounts on new memberships, whether you’re a small nonprofit, a young professional, or joining as a new member.

Use your special AADO codes before October 31, 2025 to take advantage of these limited-time offers.

Contributing Editor: Ronesha Jackson Stanton