Greater Dallas AFP Newsletter

March 2025

In This Issue

• President's Message
• March 26 Luncheon Program
• 2025 NPD Nominations are Open
• Next Executive Conversation is Thursday, March 20
• Gift Planning on the Run

President's Message

Dear AFP Greater Dallas Members & Friends,

As we welcome March, a month synonymous with the electrifying energy of March Madness, I find it a perfect moment to draw parallels between the tournament and our fundraising journey. Just as college teams enter the bracket with determination and strategy, we, too, are gearing up for a season of impactful campaigns.

During March Madness, every game is a blend of preparation, bold moves, and unexpected turns. Our fundraising efforts mirror this dynamic environment. Every contribution, big or small, acts like a crucial play, pushing us closer to our collective goal. The thrill of a buzzer-beater shot reflects our excitement when a challenging fundraising target is met through persistence and teamwork.

The tournament reminds us that underdogs can rise to the occasion. With innovative ideas and relentless drive, even the smallest initiatives can transform into champions, reshaping our community impact. As we refine our strategies and rally our networks, let’s celebrate every victory and learn from every setback, knowing that each step forward builds our momentum.

I encourage you to channel that March Madness spirit. Embrace the competition, inspire your peers, and let your passion for our mission shine through. Together, we can turn our fundraising efforts into a winning season, one remarkable play at a time.

Thank you for your continued dedication and enthusiasm. Let’s make this March a championship month for AFP!

Warmest regards,

Manuel Mesa

2025 President, Greater Dallas AFP

March Luncheon Program

Building a Culture of Philanthropy is the KEY to Your Fundraising Success!

Are you struggling to navigate our fast-changing times? Building a Culture of Philanthropy can help you weather the turbulence. Mary Freeman, CFRE, is passionate about implementing donor-centered and mission-focused fundraising programs. Join her to explore how you can infuse elements of a Culture of Philanthropy for your own fundraising success. Your takeaways will be:

• Elements of a Culture of Philanthropy.
• The importance of a Culture of Philanthropy in supporting fundraising success.
• Tips for infusing a Culture of Philanthropy in your organization.

ABOUT OUR SPEAKER: Mary Freeman, CFRE, has over 26 years of experience in the social services field and a lifetime with The Salvation Army, Mary is committed to developing solutions that support families in times of crisis. She has served in a variety of leadership roles for both large and emerging nonprofit entities. Mary is past president of the Greater Dallas Chapter AFP and has held positions with The Salvation Army of North Texas and Metro Atlanta, Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity, two educational agencies Reading Partners, and OutTeach supporting learning in low-income elementary schools. Mary earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing at Southern Methodist University and her Master of Business Administration in nonprofit management at the University of Dallas. She is passionate about implementing donor-centered and mission-focused fundraising programs. 

Wednesday, March 26, 2025

• 11:30 Networking
• 12-1 PM Luncheon & Program

PLEASE NOTE NEW LOCATION FOR THIS MONTH'S PROGRAM:

North Texas Food Bank

3677 Mapleshade Lane

Plano, TX 75075

Learn more and register now for this upcoming event! 

If you are a 2025 subscriber to Dallas AFP educational luncheon programs you are pre-registered. If you cannot attend, you may send a colleague in your place!

Members and non-members are welcome! Discounted rates for emerging leaders age 35 or under and/or with 5 years or less experience as a fundraising professional, member or non-member.



• $50 for non-members
• $35 for members
• $30 for emerging leaders, members or non-members, 35 and under or with 5 or fewer years fundraising experience

2025 National Philanthropy Day Nominations are Open!

Recognize the outstanding achievements of individuals, foundations, corporate philanthropists, fundraising volunteers and professional fundraising executives. Deadline to submit your nomination is May 15, 2025.

Save the date for the 40th Greater Dallas AFP National Philanthropy Day, Thursday, November 13, 2025 at the Dallas Arboretum.

Thanks to 2025 Presenting Sponsor DMGroup Consulting!

Next Dallas AFP Executive Conversation

Greater Dallas Chapter AFP Executive Conversation events are high level discussions with local business and philanthropy leaders for those holding an executive position with their organization, or with 10 years' experience in the fundraising community.

Eligible chapter members can learn more and register HERE for the next event!

Panel Discussion Hosted by CCS Fundraising

Thursday, March 20, 2025, 5:30-7:30 PM

Gift Planning On the Run

This 5-module course starts March 27, 2025 at the Communities Foundation of Texas. SPACE IS LIMITED. Registration closes on March 13 at 5 PM or when sold out. To register, go to www.dallascharitablegiftplanners.org  (look under the “Programs” tab).

Congratulations to Stephanie Brigger, Scottish Rite for Children, who recertified as a CFRE last month!

If you've earned your CFRE or been recertified recently and want to share the great news, let us know! afpchapteroffice@afpdallas.org