AFP-NYC’s Emerging Leaders Committee: Driving Growth and Fostering Community in Fundraising

Our Committee’s Role and Purpose

The Emerging Leaders Committee (ELC) of AFP-NYC exists to amplify the voices and potential of those newer to the sector, regardless of age, by providing mentorship, creating opportunities for learning, and fostering a strong sense of community. As Co-Chair, alongside of Brently Winstead, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the continued impact of ELC on the fundraising profession this year.

We act as a platform for professional development and a connector within AFP’s broader organization. Members are encouraged to join other subcommittees within AFP-NYC, facilitating collaboration across key areas such as Government Relations, Professional Advancement, Mentorship, Sponsorship, IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access), and more. Each liaison plays a crucial role in ensuring the fresh perspectives of emerging leaders are heard and considered in shaping AFP-NYC’s future initiatives.

In addition, we organize and host one to two events each year that aim to raise funds for the AFP-NYC chapter, educate the sector on emerging trends, and bring fundraising professionals together. In the past, we’ve hosted networking events, in-person panel discussions, and online webinars on topics ranging from donor-advised funds (DAFs) to crypto giving.

How We’ve Innovated Throughout 2024

This year, our focus has been on deepening relationships, both among our committee members and within the larger AFP community. As the fundraising landscape evolves, we recognize the need for fundraisers—especially those early in their careers—to have a strong network to rely on. To that end, we implemented several new strategies aimed at building a thriving community:

• Monthly 1:1s Among Committee Members

• Anonymous Support Form

• Increased In-Person Engagement

• Increased Conference and Scholarship Updates
  

Looking to the Future: Goals and Aspirations

As we look ahead, the Emerging Leaders Committee remains committed to supporting the next wave of fundraising professionals. Our goals for the coming year include enhancing our educational event by planning earlier in the year, continuing to host a targeted networking event in the spring, and initiating sponsorship efforts in the fall to set the stage for 2025.

Read more on AFP-NYC’s website here.