Think you know all there is to know about fundraising? Are you ready for your next challenge? AFP Charlotte would like to challenge you to do something for yourself this year. As your other 2013 resolutions may have fallen away by now, make a commitment to better yourself and further your professional education this year. Obtaining your CRE credential shows you value the profession of fundraising and combines it with textbook knowledge and real world experience.

The CFRE certification process consists of three parts: a written application, a written examination, and agreement to uphold a code of ethics and Accountability Standards. The application works on a point system, and you must earn a minimum number of points in the categories of education, professional practice, professional performance, and service.

According to CFRE International, the number of fundraisers seeking their first-time CFRE certification in 2012 grew by 17% over 2011 figures. This shows that more and more individuals see the need for and value of the CFRE credential.

AFP Charlotte would like to create customized study groups for those who are interested in taking the CFRE exam. Please contact Kelly Lynn, CFRE, at 704-335-5488, ext. 2122 or or Armen Boyajian, CFRE, at 704-370-3371 or to sign up. 

Getting your CFRE credential demonstrates commitment and increases credibility. Make 2013 your year and make it your goal to obtain your CFRE credential.  By the way, the CFRE Review Course will be held August 14-15 in Concord prior to the NC Philanthropy Conference on August 16th.  More information soon!

By Patton McDowell

AFP Colleagues,

I have sad news to report in that long-time member, former board member and National Philanthropy Day award winner Alan Lee passed away suddenly on January 27.  

He served the nonprofit community in many ways, most recently as a Partner for Capstone Advancement Partners.  He began his consulting career in 1994 after many years in institutional advancement at schools across North Carolina, including leadership positions at institutions familiar to all of us.  He served as Vice President for Development and College Relations at Queens College (now Queens University) in Charlotte. He was a Major Gifts officer on the Development staff at Davidson College from 1978 to 1980, and Director of Development for Charlotte Country Day School from 1975 to 1978. Prior to his development career, Alan was an English teacher and coach at both Charlotte Country Day School and Christ School in Arden, NC.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Alan's family, friends and colleagues at Capstone.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Urban Ministry Center, 945 N. College Street, Charlotte, NC 28206.

There are three great ways to get involved with AFP Charlotte! By getting involved with AFP Charlotte, you have the opportunity to expand your network while giving back to your profession. Added bonus our committees have the most fun.

Programs Committee
Join the Programs Committee and help plan AFP Charlotte's 2013 programs!  The next planning meeting is March 13 at 3:30 at Crisis Assistance Ministry, 500A Spratt St. Charlotte, NC 28206.

The Programs Committee oversees the largest program of AFP Charlotte, the monthly meetings.  Opportunities for committee involvement include:

• Contacting prospective speakers
• Coordinating details with confirmed speakers
• Selecting menus and venue details
• Creating program descriptions for AFP Charlotte website and emails

For more information or to say you'll attend the meeting please contact the AFP Charlotte Program Chair Michelle Hamilton.

Marketing Committee
The marketing committee manages the chapter communications, website and PR.  Opportunities for member involvement include:

• Social Media Coordination
• PR and Outreach
• Communications strategy
• Newsletter and Blogs

If you're interested in the Marketing Committee, contact John Horton for more information.

State Committee
The State committee handles the NC Philanthropy Conference and AFP Charlotte is the host this year. There are only a few committee positions left so if you're interested, contact Trish Hobson, State Committee Chair, ASAP.

If you have other committee interest check out AFP Charlotte Committee Page to get more information.