Get a Fundraising Education! January 8, 2010

Fundraising is an art and a science. 

While the art portion may be more aligned with individual talents and strengths, the science portion is absolutely within everyone's control.  To be as effective as possible in raising funds for your organization, you owe it to yourself and your organization to learn about fundraising as a discipline.  There is a wide body of knowledge and experience available you can and should access to ensure you know and understand the principles, strategies, and best practices associated with this professional field.

A great place to start would be your local AFP chapter.  AFP is the Association for Fundraising Professionals and they have regional chapters worldwide.  Visit http://www.afpnet.org/ to find your local chapter and to access lots of education resources.  When I started as a Development Director, I enrolled in the Philadelphia chapter's excellent Fundamentals of Fundraising 10-week course offered at Villanova. What I learned there proved to be invaluable over my career, and well worth the small cost for attending. 

Another resource is your state nonprofit association.  While state associations provide resources on all nonprofit matters, fundraising resources are prominently featured.   Find your state association here:  http://www.councilofnonprofits.org/salocator, and take a look at all of the webinars and regional trainings they offer.  You won't be disappointed.

Of course, there are more opportunities out there.  Please share your thoughts on the best way to become educated in the field of fundraising! 

Comments

Mary Pat:

Your readers may be interested in a unique opportunity to explore advanced topics with other experienced fundraisers.

Nonprofit professionals who have been in the field for at least five years are invited to apply to the Executive Certificate Program in Fundraising and Grantmaking being offered this Spring/Summer at New York University.

For more information: http://www.scps.nyu.edu/areas-of-study/philanthropy-fundraising/professional-certificates/executive-certificate-fundraising-grantmaking.html

Thanks for sharing Ruthellen. It is great for our field that so many colleges and universities now teach fundraising as both a degree program and as a continuing education offering.