Chapter Mission and Vision

About Our Chapter

The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) represents more than 30,000 members in over 230 chapters worldwide. It works to advance philanthropy through advocacy, research, education, and certification programs. The association fosters the development and growth of fundraising professionals and promotes high ethical standards in the profession.

AFP believes that to guarantee human freedom and social creativity, people must have the right to freely and voluntarily form organizations to meet perceived needs, advocate causes, and seek funds to support these activities. To guarantee these rights, AFP’s purposes are to:

  • Foster development & growth of fundraising professionals committed to preserving & enhancing philanthropy
  • Establish a code of ethics and professional practices
  • Require member adherence to a professional code of ethical standards and practices
  • Provide training opportunities for fundraising professionals
  • Implement programs that ensure cultural and social diversity in our membership and leadership
  • Collect, research, publish, & disseminate historical, managerial, & technical information on philanthropy & philanthropic fundraising
  • Promote public understanding of philanthropy and philanthropic fundraising
  • Conduct activities that maintain and develop legislation favorable to philanthropy
  • Enlist, organize, and support members to achieve our purposes
  • Foster international cooperation, knowledge exchange, and education among fundraising professionals worldwide
  • Use all necessary and proper means to accomplish our purposes
  • Provide a valid and reliable certification program for fundraising professionals

The Greater Cleveland Chapter provides year-round professional development and career advancement opportunities, including seminars, workshops, the annual fundraising boot camp, and our highly acclaimed certificate program offered in collaboration with IU’s Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. Our 380+ active members are development professionals, consultants, allied professionals, and fundraising volunteers who meet regularly at networking and knowledge-sharing events. Members also benefit from our mentoring program, volunteer leadership opportunities, career board, National Philanthropy Day celebration, and more. Every year, the chapter offers $10,000 in scholarship opportunities to offset membership dues, educational program fees, and registration for the AFP International Conference.