Good Morning!
On Thursday evening, I boarded the Amtrak in Chicago, bound for New Orleans, where I’m now representing the Association of Fundraising
Professionals – Southeastern Wisconsin Chapter as the organization’s president at AFP ICON. ICON is the annual conference that brings together AFP members from around the world for three days of learning and networking.
I first attended ICON in San Antonio in 2019 as a Chamberlain Scholar, and again in 2022 in Las Vegas as president-elect. Both were fantastic experiences, but as the train rolled south, I began to reflect upon what it means for me to be returning to ICON this year as president with the additional responsibility that carries.
I am extremely passionate about the profession of fundraising. It is hard work that, done well, plays a significant role in advancing the health and well-being of our entire community. My goal, as president, is to be a lead voice driving ethical philanthropic initiatives in Southeastern Wisconsin. To do this, I am inviting and encouraging brave conversations that will result in the reduction of inequities and inequalities where they’ve sustained due to harmful systems and structures that have existed for decades. It is time.
If you’ve attended an education session this year, you already know that we are striving to be in community for these learning and networking opportunities. Last month, we held a session at St. Vincent de Paul Meal Site, and next month you’ll find us at Salvation Army. Later this year, we’ll be at Silver Spring Neighborhood Center. Equally as important, we’re focusing on topics that will drive systems change. Join us. Support us.
Support us by making a donation to BE the CAUSE – a campaign that, during ICON, will result in $10 matching gifts for every $20 donation by the first 1,000 donors.
Donate today. Note: Please designate the Association of Fundraising Professionals – Southeastern Wisconsin Chapter to ensure we receive our percentage of total BE the CAUSE donations.
I truly believe that fundraising, done well, has the ability to permanently break down barriers for individuals and families that will end cycles of poverty, addiction, and adverse mental health as well as the associated traumas that often accompany all of these by addressing the root causes of each. I hope you will join me and support professional fundraisers in fulfilling our goal of healing our community.
With gratitude,
Amy Rowell
AFPSEWI President
