AFP Member Confessions: Randall Hitt, Community Link

AFP Member Confessions

Randall Hitt (first joined 1997)
October 1997. I'm one month into my new director of development job and walking into the Four Points Sheraton to attend my first AFP Charlotte monthly lunch. Well, actually, back then it was called NSFRE (National Society of Fundraising Executives).

At any rate, I've gone through the buffet line and anxiously seek a place to sit. I don't know anyone, nor do I really know what the profession of "fundraising" is all about.
Heading toward the back of the room, I'm stopped by Stacy Sumner (Jesso) who said "come on over, sit by us." Immediately I was welcomed to the group, felt at home, and was introduced to what I now recognize as the "love" of being an AFP member.

I continued attending programs and steadily got more involved. Instead of just being a participant, I helped plan, joined a committee, and reached out to network with other members (new and current) who I didn't know.

Building relationships, growth and learning, and being a part of a group that lifts our philanthropic profession are why I continue being a member today. And, I'm honored to be on the AFP Charlotte board as its membership chair.

As we enter 2014, I hope you'll become passionately involved in AFP. I'm proud to lead a membership committee who you'll be hearing from throughout the year and who will be glad to help you get more involved.

And, perhaps next time, you'll share your AFP Member Confession with us!

2014 AFP Preview From President Shannon Hinson

Happy New Year!

On behalf of the AFP Charlotte Board, I wanted to send you best wishes for 2014 and give you a little preview of our strategic initiatives for the year.

In November, the Board held its annual planning retreat to discuss many ideas and decided to focus on the theme of  "Philanthropy for the Whole Organization". We see AFP Charlotte as an organization positioned to lead discussions at many levels  about what a true culture of philanthropy should look like within organizations.  So often we focus specifically on the development department, but how do we impact the entire non-profit?

Our first program on February 4th gives us the opportunity to explore philanthropy on a broader scale. And we will continue to roll out this theme across our focus areas: membership, programs, marketing/partnerships, governance/finance, throughout the year.  President-Elect, Michelle Hamilton will report to the membership on a regular basis as to how various committees are implementing specific tactical items.

And  your input is also extremely valuable to this process!  I hope that you will participate in our membership survey next month and share your thoughts and ideas.  Joining a committee is also a great way to be involved.  Please visit our website<http://www.afpcharlotte.org/about/committees/> for a list of committees and interest form.

Thank you for being an important part of advancing philanthropy in our community.  I hope this year brings you lots of joy personally and professionally and I look forward to seeing you at our next meeting!

Best regards,
Shannon Hinson, CFRE
President, AFP Charlotte