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Virginia Association of Fundraising Executives

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VAFRE E-news, November 2025

Thank you to our Newsletter Sponsor!


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Submit Your Proposal!

You are invited to propose a program for VAFRE’s monthly luncheon sessions. Luncheons are held in person in Richmond, with a hybrid option. Submissions are open to the public, regardless of membership status, and will be accepted on a rolling basis.

VAFRE’s mission is to equip fundraising professionals with the expertise, strategies, and networks to deliver lasting impact for an inclusive philanthropic community. Our goal for monthly meetings is to provide innovative and relevant programming that will appeal to members across all experience levels and fundraising disciplines. VAFRE is committed to becoming a more equitable organization by supporting diversity, equity, inclusion, and access initiatives.

In accordance with VAFRE’s values, we are offering an honorarium for all luncheon speakers. This policy is to ensure we continue to select a diverse array of speakers and avoid any bias or discrimination that favors presenters from more privileged backgrounds. We believe presenters should be compensated equally, regardless of their position, personal traits or prominence.

For complete details and to submit a proposal, click here. 

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Welcome New (& Returning) Members!

      • Mark Carter II, ACLU of VirginiaSubmit

      • Elizabeth Kilpatrick, Music Orchard Richmond

      • Anne Wilson, Virginia War Memorial Foundation 

                          Log in to the Member Directory to access contact information for these and all members.

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                          Not a VAFRE Member?

                          Join Now

                          Quarterly payment options and
                          scholarships available.

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                          Other Upcoming Programs

                          Mark your calendar and watch for details:

                          • January 6, Self Care for Development Professionals
                          • February 3, Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP)
                          • March 3, AI and Fundraising
                          • April 7, Budget Planning
                          • May 5, Annual Awards Presentation
                          • June 2, Board Engagement

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                          Need Help with Your Dues?

                          The Susan Early Scholarship Fund is available to new and renewing VAFRE members to cover the cost of your dues. To apply for a scholarship, follow the link in the member application or, for current members, follow the link on the Members Only page.

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                          Do You Need CFRE Credit?

                          Check out the recordings of our recent programs on the Members Only page of the website. Login now to view the virtual versions of our programs: from Giving Black to Demystifying Giving Circles, Using Data to Drive Campaign Success to Grant Writing with ChatGPT, it's all there for VAFRE members to take advantage of.

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                          Link Up with VAFRE on LINKEDIN

                          VAFRE has a Company page on LinkedIn: check it out to see what's happening with VAFRE. 

                          Also, members can join our LinkedIn group page and post items of interest to other members.

                          Submit Your Award Nominations!

                          As development professionals, we understand the dedication, integrity, and unwavering commitment that define excellence in fundraising—qualities that feel especially vital in today’s environment. One of VAFRE’s greatest privileges is recognizing and celebrating the exemplary work of our colleagues who embody these values.

                          Now is the time to lift up those who inspire us. Submit your nominations for VAFRE’s Nina Abady, Rising Star, Innovation in Fundraising, Leadership in Philanthropy, and Nonprofit Excellence in Philanthropy Awards. Help us honor the individuals and organizations who set the standard for our profession and pave the way for us all.

                          A few reminders:

                          • Nominees may be members of VAFRE or the AFP Central Virginia Chapter.
                          • Rising Star nominees must have served as paid fund development professionals for up to 10 years.
                          • All award recipients (or a representative, for group awards) will receive a complimentary one-year VAFRE membership.

                          Nominations are open now through January 15, 2026. The process is quick, simple, and straightforward.
                          To review past honorees, click here.

                          To access the nomination form and learn more about the awards, criteria, and process, click here.

                          Let’s celebrate the outstanding contributions that strengthen our profession—submit your nominations today!

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                          Prepare for a Holiday Fundraising Feast Tuesday, December 2

                          Join VAFRE for an inspiring, in-depth conversation about professional development, career choices, and the lessons learned along the way. Hear from four distinguished Nina Abady Award recipients as they share their insights, experiences, and guidance for building a fulfilling and successful career in the development profession.


                          Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from some of the best in our field. Join us for lunch at the Virginia War Memorial on Tuesday, December 2.

                          • In-person registration and networking begin at 11:30 a.m. 
                          • Lunch begins at noon
                          • Program begins at 12:10 p.m.
                          • Program adjourns at 1:30 p.m.

                          Register today!

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                          Charlottesville Mix & Mingle on December 4!

                          Looking to connect with your peers? Join VAFRE for an informal Mix & Mingle on Thursday, December 4, from 8-9 a.m. at The Bradbury in Charlottesville. Grab a drink and spend the morning networking with fellow fundraising professionals in our community.

                          Feel free to bring a friend -- we love meeting new people! Enjoy a cup of coffee (or tea) as you build relationships and strengthen your professional network. This is a free event, but do RSVP so we know how many to expect. We look forward to seeing you there!

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                            All rights reserved.
                            VAFRE • P.O. Box 6605 • Richmond, VA 23230
                            Office/Fax (804) 368-3398

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