The power of storytelling in fundraising

There are more than one million charitable organizations in the U.S.

In 2008, more 50,000 people around the world will participate in the 24th annual National Philanthropy Day® events and celebrations on Nov. 13.

In the United States alone, there are more than one million charitable organizations, and Americans gave approximately $295 billion to charitable causes (according to Giving USA).

National Philanthropy Day is formally supported by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) and hundreds of other nonprofit and for-profit organizations throughout North America.

On Nov. 13, here in Connecticut, more than 300 fundraising professionals and volunteers will convene at the Trumbull Marriott Inn to sharpen their skills.

The keynote speaker for this full-day conference will be Marilyn Price, a nationally-acclaimed storyteller and puppeteer, whose message will be, “The Power of Storytelling in Fundraising." More information about the day' speakers and workshops is available on the AFP Conference Web site or call Jonathan Spinner at 860-674-9528.

Topics addressed in 21 different sessions in seven tracks will include: Annual Giving, Major Gifts, Special Events, Foundation & Corporation Giving, Capital Campaigns, Board Development, Storytelling Master Class, Planned Giving and Donor Research. Conference attendees may be eligible for eight hours of Continuing Education towards the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential.

AFP is an international organization whose mission is to advance philanthropy through education, training and advocacy. There are two chapters in Connecticut (the Fairfield and the Connecticut chapters). Local monthly meetings are held statewide.

Posted Nov. 2, 2008