Professional Partnership Program (P3)

The Professional Partnership Program (P3) offers VAFRE members a unique opportunity each year to strengthen their professional skills, expand their perspectives, and build meaningful connections with peers and experienced leaders in the field.

P3 is an optional, self-supported professional development program designed to foster thoughtful dialogue, shared learning, and practical insight into the challenges and opportunities fundraisers face today.

Program Background

The program was established in 2013 by the VAFRE Board of Directors upon the recommendation of the Ad Hoc Committee on Professional Development, led by Board member David Johnson. It was created in response to members’ desire for deeper, more intentional connections between seasoned professionals and those eager to learn from their experience.

Since its launch, the program has grown into a valued part of the VAFRE community:

• 160+ members have participated as partners
• 30 experienced professionals have served as team leaders
• 6 alumni partners have gone on to lead their own groups

P3 continues to strengthen the professional network within VAFRE by encouraging mentorship, collaboration, and shared growth.

Purpose

Each P3 group provides a supportive environment for open discussion of real-world fundraising challenges and opportunities.

Topics are shaped by the interests and needs of the participants. Issues and questions are gathered in advance and sessions are facilitated by the group’s leaders to encourage meaningful dialogue and peer learning.

Because of the program’s informal and discussion-driven format, participation does not qualify for CFRE continuing education credit.

Format

P3 is structured around small, interactive learning groups.

• Groups include 6–8 participants (“Partners”)
• Each group is guided by two experienced facilitators (“Leaders”)
• Groups meet at least four times between October 1 and May 31
• Additional sessions may be scheduled if the group chooses

This format allows participants to build relationships, share experiences, and learn from both peers and leaders in a collaborative setting.

Participation Fee

P3 is a self-supporting program. Administrative and operational costs are covered through a non-refundable annual participation fee paid by Partners.

Fees are paid to VAFRE and do not compensate Leaders, except for reimbursement of reasonable expenses related to group sessions.

The P3 Program is sponsored by