The AFP Fundamentals of Fundraising Course provides new fundraisers—those with up to four years of professional experience—with an intensive introduction into the building blocks of effective practice. To design this 16-hour course, experienced fundraising professionals evolved AFP’s introductory programs to address the real-world needs and challenges non-profit organizations face every day.

This intensive program will provide an overview of skills, techniques, and program components for individuals with 0-4 years of fundraising experience or a great “back to the basics” for veteran fundraisers.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

DAYS & TIME

The Fundamentals of Fundraising course will take place in person over three days, from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM:

Friday, September 5

Friday, September 12

Friday, September 19

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

COST

Regular Pricing:

• AFP Member: $420

• Non-Member: $520

 Textbook and lunch are included with the registration fee.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

LOCATION INFORMATION

Latino Policy Forum, 17 N State St, Suite 1740, Chicago, IL 60602

The Latino Policy Forum is located at 17 North State Street. Fundraising Fundamentals will take place in Suite 1740 on the 17th floor. You may enter the building through the main entrance at 17 N STATE ST or via the second lobby at 16 N WABASH AVE. There is no need to check in with security upon arrival.

 The Forum is conveniently located within a 5-minute walk of various CTA train stations and bus stops, including the Red Line at Lake or Monroe, the Blue Line at Washington, and the Orange, Purple, Pink, Brown, and Green Lines at Washington/Wabash. Additionally, we are just a short walk from Metra’s Millennium Station.

Parking is available at various garages in the area, and we recommend using SpotHero to find convenient options.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

- Discuss the essential components of an integrated development plan.
- Explain the elements of a marketing and communications plan that shares the organization’s message, informs constituents, and engages donors.
- Develop and sustain relationships with prospective donors, current donors, and volunteers.
- Plan individual and group solicitation strategies to secure annual and major gifts.
- Execute management policies and procedures to ensure fundraising activities are conducted with proper records management and stewardship.
- Demonstrate key ethics and accountability principles and practices in fundraising activities.

The course is worth 16 CFRE continuing education credits.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

FACULTY

 2025 Faculty

This program is approved for 16 CFRE points.

Pricing

• AFP Member: $420

• Non-Member: $520

 Textbook and lunch are included with registration fee.

Contact Renee Davis with questions.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

 2025 Faculty

Joseph Like, CFRE
VP of Development
Orchard Village
Module I: Overview of Fundraising
view bio

Judith Coleman, CFRE
Associate Director of Development, Donor Relations
Covenant House Illinois
Module II: Developing an Integrated Fundraising Program
view bio

Kristin Short
Director of Resource Development
Bridge Communities
Module III: Marketing for Ongoing Success
view bio

Fernanda Valentino
Assistant Director, Development
Big Shoulders Fund
Module VI: Volunteers - Partners in Fundraising
view bio

Renee Davis, MNM, CFRE
Consultant
Renee Davis Consulting
Module IV: Building & Sustaining Relationships
view bio

Carlos A. Trejo, CFRE
Director of Individual Giving
Latino Policy Forum
Module V: Securing the Gift
view bio

Christina Bourné
Director of Development
Forward Momentum Chicago
Module VII: Management & Accountability
view bio