Will you be joining us tonight at our first networking event of the New Year? Brighten up your cold winter and join your fellow fundraisers to network and have fun. Non-members are welcomed.  Event registration is free for members and non-members, but we would like to get an approximate headcount. RSVP now!

Join us for a member-only, free, Pop-Up Program to share and hear some examples of meaningful and unique donor stewardship. In addition to reviewing best practices, we will brainstorm ways to wow new donors and old partners alike in ways that connect them directly to your mission. This program is approved for 1 CFRE point. And, save the date for February 25th Pop-Up Talk, as we discuss Working with Program Staff.  learn more

How do our nonprofit organizations thrive and survive? As fundraisers, how do we compete with new forms of social enterprise seeking philanthropic support? Come explore the evolving landscape of social impact philanthropy. This fast paced, interactive session will equip participants with the tools they need to stand out in an increasingly crowded landscape. This program is approved for 1.5 CFRE points. Seats are limited, reserve you spot today!  learn more

We are working on compiling our 2020 Membership Directory, which will include all current members as of January 31, 2020.  To confirm your membership status or update contact information, please visit the AFP International website or contact AFP International at 800-666-3863.

Advertising opportunities now available on the official AFP Chicago Membership Directory & Resource Guide!

Click here to view the Media Kit:
Contact Mark Ragland for more information
352-333-3376 | [email protected]

Kristienne Hanna is AFP Chicago's 2020 Chapter President and Director of Development at Advance Illinois. We invited Kristienne to share her insights with us, including how she entered the development profession, turning points in her career, and why she is looking forward to the year ahead for AFP Chicago.

AFP CHICAGO: Kristienne, how did you enter the development profession?

KH:  My development career started very unintentionally with my first job as a grant writer at a social service agency after my college graduation. I truly knew nothing about raising funds but I knew I could write a persuasive argument. I was fortunate to have someone take a chance on me, a boss who was willing to coach and mentor me in my new role. I'm still in the profession because of this first boss. She remains a mentor, a friend and one of my favorite fundraising heroes of all time.

AFP CHICAGO: Can you describe a real turning point in your career?
KH:  There were several turning points, especially in the beginning when I was trying to decide on my development career path. We are fortunate to work in a profession that offers so many different career options, from generalists to niche roles like planned giving or major gifts. But the decision can also be a daunting one and a real turning point. This happened for me when I joined the development team of a large healthcare organization after several years at smaller nonprofits. The position I took on gave me an opportunity to work with all the Foundation's teams from operations to major gifts, and everything in between. It helped me better understand the different specialties and potential career paths within the profession, and provided me with a network of amazing colleagues and mentors who are really good at what they do. The experience provided tremendous growth both professionally and personally, and changed the course of my career. read more...

One of the greatest values of having a relationship with a mentor is the opportunity to have an in-depth discussion with a confidant. Your mentor is someone who can provide advice and offer perspective. This information is offered to help you consider your options and work through decisions. Your mentor is a resource and a sounding board.

I have served as a peer mentor for nearly ten years. During this time, I have had the opportunity to discuss a variety of issues with my protégés including:

• I'm happy at my job but am contemplating my next steps.
• I'm unhappy at my job and am contemplating leaving.
• The organization is undergoing a lot of changes and I don't know if I can or should stay through the upheaval.
• I have a difficult relationship with my boss/co-worker and am not sure how to approach this person to discuss the situation.  read more... 

We're happy to have you! 

Jacob Meding, Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation
Juliana Nelligan, Roosevelt University
Amanda Quinn, Joliet Junior College Foundation

New members as of December 2019
If your name is not included, please contact Becky Gilbert at [email protected].

Do you have a success story to tell us?