The Southeastern Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) will hold its monthly membership meeting on Wednesday, May 27 at the Mountain City Club, located at 729 Chestnut Street, from11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
This month’s guest speaker is Lynne Wester, Founder and Principal of Donor Relations Guru. Ms. Wester is a frequent conference speaker and well known resource for donor relations and fundraising expertise. She has been featured in The Washington Post, CURRENTS magazine, The Chronicle of Philanthropy and other industry publications. Ms. Wester created her website and blog to share her expertise, opinions, and collections of samples on a variety of topics with the greater development world. She also hosts a monthly webinar series.
Ms. Wester’s personal philosophy is that the goal of any great fundraising operation is to use strategic communications and interactions to foster the relationship between the organization and its constituents. Using her expertise and hands-on approach, Ms. Wester works with organizations to help them keep their focus donor driven, technology savvy, and strategic. She received her undergraduate degrees from the University of South Carolina and holds a master's in strategic fundraising and philanthropy.
AFP members and non-members are welcome to attend monthly meetings. Cost is $12 for AFP members and undergraduate students and $35 for non-members. Price includes lunch at the Mountain City Club. Reservations can be made online.
The Southeastern AFP Chapter provides valuable resources and networking opportunities for nonprofit fundraising professionals in the greater Chattanooga area. Meetings are held monthly, with expert guest speakers who present on topics such as planned giving, donor relations, marketing, soliciting major gifts, and donor retention. The AFP also hosts the National Philanthropy Day awards and luncheon each November.
AFP memberships are available to both individuals and organizations. Benefits include research and practice tools, professional development and networking opportunities, and special member discounts. Additional 2015 meetings are scheduled for June 24, September 23, and October 28.