This just in – a report from San Diego.

I am often asked by my non-fundraising peers (yes, they do exist apparently) on what exactly the group called AFP is all about. I usually give the standard elevator speech about advancing the profession, networking, and career advancement. Recently, at the international conference in San Diego, I was given the opportunity to actually live this idea for a few days.

Overlooking a marvelous Pacific coast backdrop, complete with sailboats, sea lions and stuffed shrimp, the largest gathering of fundraisers in the world set out to increase their knowledge and professionalism. The plenary sessions were excellent, from Sir Bob Geldof (who dropped a couple profanities) to Dr. Jane Goodall (who showed us how chimpanzees scream) to Kevin Carroll (who challenged us to find our own red rubber ball), we learned how interconnected we are personally and professionally.

The conference breakout sessions had everything to enhance one’s fundraising intellect, and my personal favorites were on internet marketing and leadership. Just when you think you have heard all the leadership rhetoric, you see that there is always something new and innovative.

The highlight of this conference, and any AFP gathering, is the people. As always, fellow fundraisers from around the world energize and motivate each other with stories of triumphs and tragedies. Networking continues to be the most important outcome and can only happen when people of like minds come together.

I feel privileged to have been given this opportunity, as your president, to represent our chapter. I am honored at the energy and effort that you bring when you dedicate your talents to our chapter. It reminds me of one of my favorite quotes from Margaret Mead:

   "Never doubt that a small group of committed citizens can change the
   world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has!"

We'll see you every third Wednesday (except in May).

Sincerely,

Eric L. Welch, CFRE
President, Association of Fundraising Professionals
Central Florida Chapter