Greater Giving Blog

Day of Education - AFP Western NY
2026-06-04 08:30 - 15:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Daemen University, 4380 Main St,, Amherst, NY, 14226, United States
Get ready to immerse yourself in a dynamic day full of knowledge-sharing, learning, collaboration, and unparalleled networking opportunities with professionals from nonprofit organizations throughout Western New York.
Agenda Highlights:

– 3 distinct educational tracks with a nationally-renowned facilitator and expert
– Lunch with networking time
– Access to vendors who understand the complex needs of nonprofit organizations
– Happy Hour

Educational Tracks (Choose 1, Space is Limited!)
1. The Fundraising Flywheel, with Michael Mitchell, Co-Founder and CEO of The Fundraising Academy
The Fundraising Flywheel is a 5-step framework to help donors become an important part of the team and improve your fundraising. The flywheel is simply a way of codifying the fundamentals of fundraising done well, and participants in this track will leave with a concrete plan to help them either launch new fundraising ideas for their organizations or improve upon what they are already doing.

Beyond “Just Pick Up the Phone”: A Smarter Approach to Donor Relationships,with Colton Withers, Director of Operations, Consultant and Strategist at the Donor Relations Group

Strong donor relations work is the key to unlocking the potential of fundraising for your organization. But all too often, there is no manual on how to approach donors, when to do this, or even what touch points are appropriate in certain situations. Everyone is always told to simply “just pick up the phone!” but it is sometimes easier said than done. In this track, participants will examine each step of the donor relationship journey through the lens of DRG’s proven concepts and examples. At the end, participants will come away with new strategies on how to approach their donors and make them truly feel the impact of the work they are supporting.

Turning Awkward Moments into Authentic Board and Volunteer Philanthropy,with David Phillips, Principal at Immersive 1st

Engaging board members and volunteers in philanthropy can feel awkward, especially when fundraising isn’t their comfort zone. This track explores practical, relationship-driven ways to involve boards and volunteers in meaningful philanthropic activities without forcing them into “the ask.” Participants will learn how to build confidence, clarify roles, and create authentic opportunities for engagement that strengthen donor relationships and advance the mission.

Seminar: The Chicago Gala Playbook Live: How to Take Your Event to the Next Level and Raise More Money
2026-06-09 09:30 - 14:00 | Venue West, 221 N Paula St, Chicago, IL, 60612, United States
A practical, no‑fluff workshop focused on real strategies that drive real fundraising results. Limited Capacity Event – Attendance is capped to ensure a high‑value, interactive experience.
Bonus Value for Attendees:

Full participation in The Chicago Gala Playbook Live: How to Take Your Event to the Next Level and Raise More Money is applicable for 3.5 points in Category 1.B -Education of the CFRE International application for initial certification and/or recertification.
Enter to win a Tuscany trip giveaway!
Receive free professional headshots onsite

Tuesday, June 9, 2026
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Doors open at 9:30 AM)
Venue West: 221 N Paulina St Chicago, IL 60612
The Chicago Gala Playbook Live is a high-impact, half-day workshop designed for nonprofit leaders, gala chairs, and development professionals who want to elevate their events and raise more money. This practical, no-fluff session will walk attendees through every stage of a successful fundraising event, from early planning and sponsorship strategy to live auction execution, paddle raise success, and post-event stewardship. Featuring expert panels and real-world insights from top event partners, attendees will leave with actionable strategies they can immediately implement.
Learning Objectives:
• Develop a strategic timeline and plan for executing a successful fundraising event
• Identify and implement revenue-driving strategies for live and silent auctions
• Understand best practices for maximizing paddle raise/fund-a-need performance
• Learn how to engage sponsors, table hosts, and attendees to increase giving
• Apply post-event data and stewardship strategies to grow future event revenue

Fundraising Day New York 2026
2026-06-12 | The Marriott Marquis Times Square, 1535 Broadway, New York, NY, 10036, United States
Dive into the premier one-day conference in the world of philanthropy, Fundraising Day New York! Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro, you’ll find a vibrant mix of sessions covering the entire spectrum of fundraising, from the latest trends to emerging innovations. These sessions are carefully crafted and delivered by renowned leaders and experts who are at the forefront of the industry.
Connect with a passionate community of over 1,200 fundraisers, all eager to share insights, build relationships, and grow their expertise together. This is where the heart of philanthropic collaboration beats strong.
Don’t miss our Sponsor/Exhibitor area, an essential part of the FRDNY experience! Here, businesses, consulting services, and educational programs proudly display their offerings at exhibitor tables. Throughout the day, you can network with top professionals on the bustling 6th and 7th floors, making valuable connections and discovering new opportunities.
Join us and be part of something extraordinary!

AFP Genesee Valley
2026-06-15 | Hyatt Regency Rochester, 125 E Main St, Rochester, NY, 14604, United States
The AFP Genesee Valley Chapter invites you to our 2026 Annual Regional Conference on Monday, June 15, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency, where we’re rolling up our sleeves for Hard Hats Required: Fundraisers at Work.
This year’s conference is all about the real work behind effective fundraising—building smart strategies, strengthening relationships, and putting ideas into action. You’ll hear from leaders in the field, learn what’s working right now, and walk away with practical tools you can use immediately. Whether you’re a seasoned development professional, a nonprofit leader, or growing your fundraising career, join us for a day of learning, connection, and momentum—and get ready to get back to work inspired.
Who should attend?
This conference is for fundraising professionals, nonprofit leaders, board members, and volunteers who support resource development. Whether you’re new to the field or have years of experience, you’ll find practical ideas you can use in your work. If you want to learn what’s working in fundraising and connect with others in the field, this conference is for you.
Lunch & keynote-only option
Can’t join us for the full day? You’re invited to be part of one of the most anticipated moments of the conference.
We’re offering a special ticket for those who want to connect with colleagues and hear directly from AFP Global Board Chair Roger D. Ali, MBA, CFRE, as he shares Leading Lightly: What Matters Most in Times of Change.
This option is ideal for CEOs, executive directors, board leaders, and community partners who want insight into today’s fundraising landscape and the opportunity to engage with fellow nonprofit leaders—without committing to a full day of sessions.
Ticket Prices
Full-Day: Members $199 | Non-Members $215
Lunch & Keynote ONLY: $50 per person | $500 for table of 10

Planet Philanthropy
2026-06-22 - 2026-06-24 | Sunseeker Resort, 5500 Sunseeker Way, Charlotte Harbor, FL, 33980, United States
Get ready for an incredible gathering of passionate fundraisers from Miami to Jacksonville, Pensacola to Orlando, Tampa, and everywhere in between! This conference is a magnet for fundraising professionals from across the nation! We’re thrilled to welcome more than 300 dynamic non-profit leaders from a diverse array of organizations—social services, education, health, religious groups, the arts, and so much more! Join us as we dive into the latest and greatest resources designed to elevate your knowledge and skills. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to connect, learn, and grow together!
