AFP GPC

Wishing a relaxing weekend to fundraisers across the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) and right here in the Philadelphia Region.

It has been a busy spring for most of you (and us, too!), and our guess is that the couch is looking pretty good right now. (We'd say the beach, but the weather isn't seeming to cooperate.)

Taking time to rejuvenate is critical in this role when so many of our days are spent thinking about others.

Congratulations on all of your galas and spring campaigns. We hope you can put your feet up and enjoy time with friends and family, which we know is well deserved.

☕ Grab a mug and join us for another Coffee Conversation on May 14!

The wealthy are getting wealthier—are our major donor strategies keeping up? Stop by our May Coffee Conversation and connect with fellow fundraisers about what’s working (and what’s not) in major gift fundraising.

We’ll discuss:
✅ How to get the meeting
✅ Scripts that work
✅ Cultivation strategies
✅ Asking boldly—and appropriately—of top donors

📅 May 14, 2026
⏰ 8:45–10:00 AM

Two in‑person options:
• Schultz & Williams (Philadelphia)
• RSM (Suburbs)

Coffee conversations are free to AFP members and $5 for non-members. Registration required—no walk‑ins.

AFP Philadelphia - Events Cancellations less than 3 business days prior will not receive a refund. Please note members will not be able to swap their registration for events with a non-member.

⏳ Time is running out to submit your National Philanthropy Day 2026 nominations!

Each year at National Philanthropy Day we recognize the incredible people and organizations making an impact in Greater Philadelphia 💙

Know a philanthropist, volunteer, nonprofit leader, or organization that deserves the spotlight? Now’s the time to act.

✨ Nominations close May 6 ✨

AFP Philadelphia - National Philanthropy Day Co-chair - Kathryn Fernandez, Chief Development Officer, Habitat for Humanity PhiladelphiaCo-chair - Rev. Dr. Lorina Marshall-Blake, MGA, FAAN, President of the Independence Blue Cross Foundation and Vice President, Community Affairs, Independence Blue CrossJory Barrad, Director of Development & Com...

🎉 Great news! There’s still time to shine a spotlight on leaders making a difference in our region.

If you were thinking about submiting a nomination for National Philanthropy Day but need a little extra time, you’re in luck — we've extended the deadline to May 6! This is your chance to recognize the leaders, donors, organizations, and volunteers who strengthen our community every day.

Don’t miss the opportunity to celebrate their impact — submit your nomination today!
👉 https://buff.ly/RRUuD47

Let’s come together to honor generosity, leadership, and philanthropy across Greater Philadelphia. 💙

Join us for Leading Philanthropy 2026: What Fundraising & Philanthropy Require Now

The fundraising landscape is changing—and nonprofit professionals need strategies that meet the moment. Don’t miss, this one-day, multi-chapter conference designed to deliver practical, actionable insights that nonprofit leaders can put to work right away. Join us for:

✔️ Dynamic, relevant sessions
✔️ Meaningful networking with peers
✔️ Strategies to advance your organization’s mission

Wednesday, September 23, 2026
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
The Drexelbroom Catering & Event Center | Drexel Hill, PA

👉Grab your ticket now to access our best rate with Preview Pricing!

Leading Philanthropy: What Fundraising and Philanthropy Needs Now Register Now!

Last chance to get your tickets for this year's Philanthropy Symposium before they sell out!

In partnership with Philanthropy Network of Greater Philadelphia, the Philanthropy Symposium is an event bringing together fundraising professionals, board members and foundations. The purpose is to hear about trends and hear from people in the field. Spend the morning learning how best to handle uncertain times as it relates to donors, funders, etc.

Get your tickets today and join AFP-GPC Emerging Leaders for an evening with Mary Petersen! In this fireside chat–style conversation, Mary will share her joyful and practical approach to one of the most intimidating aspects of fundraising: the ask itself.

Open to fundraisers of all levels (not just emerging leaders), attendees will gain tools to overcome fear, build authentic donor relationships, and close transformational gifts—empowering you to become the best major gifts fundraiser you can be.

Included with registration, the first 100 attendees will receive a copy of Mary’s book, 'What to Say: 12 Major Gift Asks to Get a YES'.

Join AFP-GPC Emerging Leaders for an evening with Mary Petersen! In this fireside chat–style conversation, Mary will share her joyful and practical approach to one of the most intimidating aspects of fundraising: the ask itself.

Open to fundraisers of all levels (not just emerging leaders), attendees will gain tools to overcome fear, build authentic donor relationships, and close transformational gifts—empowering you to become the best major gifts fundraiser you can be.

Included with registration, the first 100 attendees will receive a copy of Mary’s book, 'What to Say: 12 Major Gift Asks to Get a YES'.

Today we gathered to connect with our fellow fundraisers in the Greater Philadelphia and hear about the state of Philanthropy! Special thanks to The Wistar Institute for hosting us, Schultz & Williams for being AFP GPC's Presenting Partner, and Matt Haggerty of Carey & Co. for an insightful and engaging presentation!