Registration is now open for our 2026 Fundamentals of Fundraising course!

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.

Click here to register

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SCHEDULE & MODULES

The course is organized into seven modules:

1. Overview of Fundraising
2. Developing an Integrated Fundraising Program
3. Marketing for Ongoing Success
4. Building & Sustaining Relationships
5. Securing the Gift
6. Volunteers – Partners in Fundraising
7. Management & Accountability

This program is approved for 16 CFRE points.

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DATE & LOCATION

Format: In-Person

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

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COST

$450 - AFP Chicago Members
$550 - Non-AFP Chicago Members

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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.

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2026 Faculty

Kimberly Vann, CFRE
Senior Grant Writer
Metropolitan Family Services
Module I: Overview of Fundraising
view bio

 
Carlos A. Trejo, CFRE
Director of Individual Giving
Latino Policy Forum
Module II: Developing an Integrated Fundraising Program
view bio

Kate Bousum, CFRE
Vice President of Philanthropy
Aspire
Module III: Marketing for Ongoing Success
view bio

Joseph A. Like, CFRE
Vice President of Development
Orchard Village
Module IV: Building & Sustaining Relationships
view bio

William P. Nalley
Director of Development
Aspire
Module V: Securing the Gift
view bio

Fernanda Valentino
Director of Annual Giving
National Louis University
Module VI: Volunteers - Partners in Fundraising 
view bio

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