Fundamentals of Fundraising – Fall2025-08-04T11:39:55-04:00

 

 

The Fall session of AFP’s Fundamentals of Fundraising course is now open for enrollment.

The course consists of seven modules that have been designed by experienced fundraising professionals to meet the real-world needs and challenges non-profit organizations meet every day.
  • Module 1:  Overview of Fundraising
  • Module 2:  Developing an Integrated Fundraising Program
  • Module 3:  Marketing for Ongoing Success
  • Module 4:  Building and Sustaining Relationships
  • Module 5:  Securing the Gift
  • Module 6:  Volunteers – Partners in Fundraising
  • Module 7:  Management & Accountability
The course offers a complete overview of the development function, featuring the most current information and techniques. This intensive program will provide an overview of skills, techniques, and program components for individuals with 0-4 years of fundraising experience or a great “back to the basics” for veteran fundraisers.

 

Location: 

Easterseals Redwood
BoardRoom
2901 Gilbert Ave,
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202

 

Dates & Times:  

Session 1 – Monday, November 3, 2025  from 8:30 am – 2:30 pm

  • Modules 1 & 2

Session 2 – Wednesday, November 5, 2025  from 8:30 am – 4:30 pm

  • Modules 3, 4 & 5

Session 3 – Thursday, November 6, 2025  from 8:30 am – 2:30 pm

  • Modules 6 & 7

Cost:

Early Bird Rate: 
$435 AFP Members,
$545 Non Members

Registration after October 16, 2025:
$485 AFP Members,
$595 Non Members

 

CFRE Continuing Education Points:  16
Full participation in AFP CFRE Refresher course is applicable for 16.0 points in Category 1.B -Education of the CFRE International application for initial certification and/or recertification.

AFP Cincinnati Chapter is looking forward to meeting in-person.   AFP Cincinnati Chapter and in person attendees shall follow all CDC and local guidance at the time of the event.  Warning:  there is an inherent risk of exposure to contagious diseases in any public place where people are present.  Waiver/Release/Indemnification:  as a condition of onsite participation in this meeting, attendees expressly waive any rights against and release and hold harmless AFP and any of its officers or agents and assigns AFP from and against any and all claims or liability of whatever kind or nature.  By completing registration for this event, attendees have read and understand all provisions of this release and freely and knowingly assume the risk and waive their rights concerning liability.  Thank you for your understanding.

Your reservation is a financial commitment.  There will be a 20% cancellation fee if you cancel your reservation within 7 days of this event.  Please contact the AFP office at admin@afpcincinnati.org or 513-939-2652. 

Virtual Webinar hosted by SNAP2025-08-12T09:26:59-04:00

 

Top 10 legacy fundraising strategies from scientific research: 
National data & results from the lab

After twenty years in academic research (plus more than a decade in frontline planned and major gifts fundraising), Professor James brings together scientific results from economics, neuroscience, psychology, demographics, and other disciplines to present the ten most important and effective strategies for increasing fundraising success in planned gifts. Beyond just “war stories,” this presentation gives you a deep understanding of what works – and why – in effective legacy fundraising.

While this event is designed for fundraising leaders, EVERY fundraiser—no matter your experience level—will gain valuable insights that will help your fundraising practice.  Attendees will find strategies helpful for giving of all types. We hope you can join us!

Date: Monday, September 8, 2025

Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Location:   Virtual Zoom Meeting

Cost:  
AFP Cincinnati Members  – $10
Non-Members and other AFP Members  – $49

 

More about our Speaker:

Russell James, J.D., Ph.D., CFP® is a professor in the School of Financial Planning at Texas Tech University where he directs the graduate program in Charitable Financial Planning (planned giving). He graduated, cum laude, from the University of Missouri School of Law where he was a member of the Missouri Law Review and received the United Missouri Bank Award for Most Outstanding Work in Gift and Estate Taxation and Planning. He also holds a Ph.D. in consumer economics from the University of Missouri, where his dissertation was on charitable giving. He is a member of the National Association of Charitable Gift Planners (CGP) Hall of Fame and an Honorary Fellow of the American College of Trust and Estates Counsel (ACTEC).

Prior to his career as an academic researcher, Dr. James worked as the Director of Planned Giving for Central Christian College in Moberly, Missouri for 6 years and later served as president of the college for more than 5 years. During his presidency the college successfully completed two major capital campaigns, built several new debt-free buildings, and more than tripled enrollment.

Dr. James has published research in more than 85 peer-reviewed scientific journal and law review articles. He is author of several books including The Storytelling Fundraiser, The Socratic Fundraiser, The Biblical Fundraiser, Inside the Mind of the Bequest Donor, and Visual Planned Giving. He has been quoted in a variety of news sources including The New York Times, CNN, and the Chronicle of Philanthropy and his financial neuroimaging research was profiled in The Wall Street Journal’s Smart Money Magazine.


Full participation in this program is applicable for 1.0 points in Category 1.B -Education of the CFRE International application for initial certification and/or recertification. 

Your reservation is a financial commitment.

Virtual Webinar2025-08-08T12:34:22-04:00

 

Do Less, Raise More

In this one-hour session, Anna Schlia offers a compelling invitation to simplify. Drawing on behavioral science and practical fundraising experience, this talk helps professionals recognize complexity bias, eliminate low-yield activities, and focus on what truly matters. Designed for fundraisers seeking clarity, efficiency, and greater impact.

Date: Tuesday, Sept 16, 2025

Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Location:   Virtual Zoom Meeting

Cost:  
AFP Cincinnati Members  – $10
Non-Members and other AFP Members– $49

 

 

More about our Speaker:

Anna Schlia is a speaker, consultant, and frontline fundraiser with 18 years of experience training advancement professionals in principal and major gifts, donor motivation, and effective solicitation strategies. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of Rochester, Schlia’s research explores the charitable triad theory and donor behavior within higher education, with a particular focus on women and girls’ philanthropy and fundraising ethics. She has presented nationally at CASE All Districts, AFP ICON, ICGS, and the Association of Professional Researchers for Advancement, and has consulted for higher education, K12, and social change nonprofits.


Full participation in this program is applicable for 1.0 points in Category 1.B -Education of the CFRE International application for initial certification and/or recertification. 

Your reservation is a financial commitment.

Virtual Webinar hosted by SNAP2025-06-01T23:39:19-04:00

 

Shifting Funding Streams—From Federal Grants to Private Sector Grant Requests

This dynamic, 60-minute session is designed for nonprofit professionals ready to diversify their funding portfolios and adapt to today’s competitive grant landscape.

Discover the key differences between federal and private sector grants, assess your organization’s readiness for private funding, and learn actionable strategies for researching, engaging, and building relationships with foundation and corporate funders. You’ll gain insights into implementing effective stewardship plans that foster long-term partnerships.

Whether new to private sector funding or looking to sharpen your approach, this workshop will equip you with the tools and confidence to secure new grant opportunities and strengthen your organization’s sustainability. Join peers and thought leaders for an interactive session packed with practical tips, real-world examples, and opportunities for discussion. Don’t miss your chance to elevate your grant strategy and drive greater impact for your mission!

Date: Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Location:   Virtual Zoom Meeting

Cost:  
AFP Members  – $10
Non-Members – $49

Note that members are being charged a fee for Networking & Knowledge events. This fee will help balance costs and allow us to continue to provide the quality programs and services you have come to expect from AFP Greater Cincinnati. If you have any questions, please contact Ken Coggeshall at kcoggeshall@afpcincinnati.org.

 

 

More about our Speaker:

Dr. Beverly A. Browning, known as Dr. Bev, is a distinguished grant writing expert and founder of the Grant Writing Training Foundation. With over 50 years of experience, she has helped clients secure over $750 million in grant awards across sectors, including government, education, healthcare, and Fortune 500 companies. Dr. Bev offers live, interactive courses such as a 15-week Coaching/Mentoring program and a 4-week course on The Business Side of Grant Writing for Freelance Consultants, along with specialized training in negotiating skills and nonprofit board capacity building. She is the prolific author of 48 grant-related publications, including seven Grant Writing For Dummies editions. Dr. Bev’s work combines deep expertise with a commitment to empowering grant professionals and nonprofit leaders nationwide.


Full participation in this program is applicable for 1.0 points in Category 1.B -Education of the CFRE International application for initial certification and/or recertification. 

Your reservation is a financial commitment.

Joint Meet & Greet2025-06-12T21:44:40-04:00

Join fellow AFP members and Greater Cincinnati Planned Giving Council members to network at the newly renovated Cincinnati Public Radio! We encourage you to bring a colleague or a prospective new member!

Location: 
Cincinnati Public Radio
2117 Dana Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45207

Date & Time:
Wednesday, September 10, 2025
4:30 PM – 6:30 PM

Cost: Members are FREE
Non-Members $25

Your reservation is a financial commitment.
Meet & Greet2025-05-12T18:44:10-04:00

 

Join fellow AFP members and friends to network in a casual setting. We encourage you to bring a colleague or a prospective new member! We hope you will join us!

Location: 
Braxton Brewing Co.
27 West 7th Street, Covington, KY 41011

Date & Time:
Wednesday, June 11, 2025
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Cost: Members are FREE
Non-Members $25

Your reservation is a financial commitment.
Virtual Webinar2025-05-29T06:06:03-04:00

Peer to Peer Fundraising

Attendees will be presented with the latest peer-to-peer industry benchmarks and trends and understand the changes in the landscape.  This will provide a key opportunity for attendees to gauge where their program or efforts stand and be armed with the information to make appropriate measures.

Date: Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Location:   Virtual Zoom Meeting

Cost:  
AFP Members  – $10
Non-Members – $49

Note that members are being charged a fee for Networking & Knowledge events. This fee will help balance costs and allow us to continue to provide the quality programs and services you have come to expect from AFP Greater Cincinnati. If you have any questions, please contact Ken Coggeshall at kcoggeshall@afpcincinnati.org.

 

 

More about our Speaker:

Kevin Sims, director of strategy, P2P, Streetlight Digital

Kevin Sims is the Director of Peer-to-Peer Strategy for Streetlight Digital, a full-service fundraising and marketing agency committed to helping non-profits reach their goals and ultimately further their missions.

Prior to joining Streetlight, Kevin worked for several national nonprofit organizations, leading their fundraising and volunteer efforts. Most recently, he served as Vice-President, Volunteer Field Relations & Engagement for a leading pancreatic cancer organization. While there, he guided the transition of nearly 60 community events to a one-date model while he and his team raised more than $17M in peer-to-peer revenue annually.

Kevin transitioned to non-profit work after a nearly 17-year career in journalism. That background provided surprising similarities to all of our work to further our causes; the power of “making the ask,” telling mission-inspired stories and putting people first.

Kevin is a University of Oklahoma graduate and spends most Saturdays in the Fall at Sooner football games. He and his partner live in the mountains north of Atlanta with their dog, Tybee Bojangles.


Full participation in this program is applicable for 1.0 points in Category 1.B -Education of the CFRE International application for initial certification and/or recertification. 

Your reservation is a financial commitment.

Giving USA – in partnership with Grants Plus2025-06-17T21:53:24-04:00

 

Get expert insights from the Giving USA Annual Report on Philanthropy – the most comprehensive analysis of charitable giving trends in the United States.

Grants Plus and AFP Cincinnati proudly present the 2025 Giving USA Cincinnati Briefing – a free virtual session featuring nationally recognized philanthropy expert Melissa Brown.

In this exclusive session, Melissa will break down the key findings from the latest report and share expert analysis to help nonprofit leaders turn data into strategy. You’ll walk away with practical, actionable takeaways to inform your fundraising, planning, and decision-making in today’s shifting philanthropic landscape.

Date: Tuesday, June 24, 2025

Time:
9:00-10:00 a.m. Program
10:00-10:30 Q&A

Location:   Virtual Zoom Meeting

Cost:  FREE! 

 

About our Speaker:

Melissa Brown, former editor of Giving USA and a respected consulting researcher, offers practical perspectives and actionable takeaways on the latest philanthropic research. She founded her firm in 2011 and helps charities “turn knowledge into action” through program evaluation, planning, and research. Melissa is a highly rated national speaker, a faculty member of The Fund Raising School, and a former chair of the Association of Philanthropic Counsel (APC).

 

 

Full participation in this event is applicable for 1.0 points in Category 1.B -Education of the CFRE International application for initial certification and/or recertification.

 

Emerging Leaders Virtual Meeting2025-02-26T21:03:20-05:00

Emerging Leaders – Join us for our session on, “How to Be Successful in a One-Person Shop,” where we’ll dive into practical strategies for managing your workload, making smart decisions, and building a strong network—without a big team behind you.

Our panelists, Adrienne Taylor, Lynn Smith, and Beth Benson will share their firsthand experiences, offering insights on time management, resource optimization, and overcoming common challenges faced by solo professionals.

This interactive session will give you actionable takeaways to help you work more efficiently, stay focused on what matters most, and grow both personally and professionally. Plus, we want to hear from you!

When you register, let us know what questions you’d like addressed so we can tailor the conversation to your needs. Whether you’re new to working solo or a seasoned pro looking for fresh ideas, this is a great opportunity to connect, learn, and walk away with strategies you can use right away.

AFP Cincinnati’s Emerging Leaders affinity group’s goal is to provide professional development, networking opportunities and cultivate a deeper sense of engagement within the Cincinnati Chapter and its activities. If you’d like to learn more about Emerging Leaders, you can visit Emerging Leaders – AFP Cincinnati

 

Location:   Virtual

 

Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025

 

Time: 9:30am – 10:30am

Cost:
AFP Members are FREE
Non-Members $45

 

This event will be approved for 1.0 CFRE Credits.

Your reservation is a financial commitment.

Meet & Greet2025-03-07T14:13:12-05:00

 

Join fellow AFP members and friends to network in a casual setting. We encourage you to bring a colleague or a prospective new member! We hope you will join us!

Location: 
Brewdog
316 Reading Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45202

Date & Time:
Thursday, March 20, 2025
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Cost: Members are FREE
Non-Members $25

Your reservation is a financial commitment.
Go to Top