Guest Post: 4 Reasons to Join a Professional Association

Last month, in Bartlesville, the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) held the first meeting of the Bartlesville Network-an extension of AFP of Eastern Oklahoma. It was well attended by people working and volunteering in nonprofit organizations in the Bartlesville area. Why did they come? For many of the same reasons people join professional associations across the country.

1. To broaden their knowledge

Most association meetings feature a monthly speaker sharing their expertise on a topic of interest to the membership. The Bartlesville AFP is no exception. We work hard to bring in experts with topics that are timely, relevant and appeal to a wide range of practitioners.

2. To expand their network

Association networking is a fabulous way to stay connected with people who struggle with the same issues you face in your work. It also offers opportunities to find synergies between your organization and others in the room. Those conversations were already taking place in January at the very first meeting!

3. To advance their careers

Not only do associations offer meaningful, convenient continuing education opportunities, they also have a mechanism in place to make members aware of job openings in the field. Between the education and networking available, people can chart a career path that makes sense for them.

4. To stay inspired

People in your field, whatever it may be, share passions, challenges and interests. Being in the same room once a month can be a source of inspiration and renewed energy to help you stay focused on your mission and vision.

If you live in the Bartlesville area and want to check out how the Association of Fundraising Professionals can help your organization, join us on Thursday, February 26th at 11:30 at the Bartlesville Regional United Way. Wayne King will speak on Donor Data: The Fundraiser’s Best Friend.

Register here to attend.

If you work in another profession or live outside of Bartlesville, I urge you to seek out an association near you. You’ll be glad you did!

Your friend,

See you…online!

Kathy Wright

Chief Operating Officer, The Institute for Conversational Fundraising