In preparing for the upcoming year, I looked back at recent past AFP presidents whose leadership, direction, vision and service to our chapter, membership and community helped to mold where we are today. As I share these words of wisdom with you, I extend my sincere appreciation to all the consummate professionals whose time, talent and professional expertise have benefited all ~

Tricia Jenkins CFRE, 2003-2004 AFP TC celebrates 10th Anniversary Year! Tricia led the chapter to a historical 50+ membership while surviving two hurricanes! “As champions of non-profits, many of us took care of clients, patients, students, gardens, historic buildings, paintings, and even sea urchins in addition to caring for ourselves and our families…this year gave us many opportunities to be heroes. Our chapter is successful because our members take an active role…participate and reap the rewards of friendship and professional growth.”

James Campo, CFP, 2005 Financial advisor and the first for-profit sector president, James proclaimed “the most fundamental concept in fundraising….STP. The most important skill set for a successful fundraiser…STP. The difference between a paper pusher and a progressive agent for social change…STP. See The People. Spend Time with People. Ask questions and listen carefully and you will discover their emotional core!”

Susan McVeigh, 2006 Under Sue’s leadership, the chapter spun off the newest chapter - AFP Indian River and “focused on increased professional development for our members”; exceptional audio conferences, scholarships to national conferences and trainings, CFRE training, enhanced communication and the launch of our website.
Diane M. Charette, 2007 As Diane takes the helm “we are all watching very closely the interest rate and stock market fluctuations, as fundraisers we must remain positive and face all challenges with confidence and positive attitude. Remind your donors of the economic role your agency or organization plays in the community and…take a leadership role in chapter activities.”

Judy Cruz, 2008 The new AFP Brevard County chapter was sponsored, a Chapter Administrator was hired, Gail Perry presented “Fired Up Fundraising” and the NPD inaugural Cal Douglas “Spirit of Philanthropy” award honoring the lifetime achievements of our dear friend Cal was presented to our special “queen bee” Millie Wood. “We accomplished many things through a team effort….your dedication to our community and our profession has helped make our chapter a true treasure.”

Michelle King, 2009 “This year brought concerns about our organization’s ability to meet the greatest need and do the most good. I know it is committed professionals like the membership of AFP that will rise to this challenging year.” Michelle reminds us that “we couldn’t exist as non-profits without the generosity of the philanthropists on the Treasure Coast…we must make sure that our philanthropists in this area are proud of the work that we do…and feel confident and willing to support us.”

I am humbled…and now it’s my turn. As an active AFP member since 1998 (often in two chapters) and a professional fund-raiser for many more years, I’ve had incredible experiences, enjoyed many opportunities and energetically embraced this career. Where else can you joyfully connect donors with worthy projects in our community, and help them to fulfill their dreams and accomplish their personal goals? My goal for 2010 is to share in the leadership, to continue to develop future leaders of AFP, future leaders of our community, future leaders of our non-profit organizations, and future leaders committed to making things that are good, GREAT! It’s not about me, it’s about ‘we’…and how we all can be empowered to be the best we can be in all facets of our lives.



Joanne Towner, CFRE
2010 Chapter President