Change Can Be Good!
"When I found out last December that I had been awarded our chapter’s Chamberlain Scholarship, I was honored and excited to return to Minnesota, where I attended college, and learn from the best and brightest in fundraising. Unfortunately, the conference was transitioned to virtual-only several months ago, but I was lucky to still have the opportunity to attend from home. I gained invaluable experience from an arguably broader perspective of the best of the fundraising community, as travel barriers were removed and the conference truly opened up to the entire nation.
The conference came at an interesting time for me as it occurred during the week of transition between my former organization and my current organization. While I was excited about the transition, I had some apprehension about completely changing cause areas and beginning a new job within the same sector, as my previous career change had been a complete change of industry and occupation.
This is why I was doubly grateful that I was given the opportunity to attend AFP ICON this year. The conference was incredibly affirming and allowed me to speak with other fundraisers who had made similar transitions as well as learn powerful and applicable tactics for my future in fundraising.
About the Conference
AFP Global did an excellent job of delivering the full conference experience virtually. Other virtual conferences I have attended over the past year and a half have not fully offered attendees the ability to develop connections and truly participate in sessions. In contrast, ICON was a seamless experience that allowed for networking and interactivity at all stages and felt nearly as immersive as being in-person in Minneapolis.
My favorite session was entitled “Be Prepared for Millennial Major Donors,” which I was pleased and surprised to find out was being presented by an alumna of my alma mater. As a young Millennial myself, I have been very curious on what the best tactics are to engage this cohort, especially as the wealth transfer between Millennials and older generations intensifies. I found the session to be incredibly insightful, and it provided me with actionable takeaways to deploy when approaching Millennial prospects.
Experience Supports Career Growth
I had a wonderful experience at AFP ICON 2021. I am extremely grateful to AFP Southern Colorado for selecting me for this scholarship and to the AFP Foundation for making it possible. I will use the lessons I have learned at every step of my fundraising career. "
Emily Loof | Development and Marketing Manager at Colorado Youth for a Change
