Association of Fundraising Professionals West Michigan

06/15/2026

Join us in celebrating Teresa Reid, Executive Director of Catholic Foundation of West Michigan for this Member Monday Spotlight!

Catholic Foundation of West Michigan's mission is to inspire and enable generous support for parishes, schools, and ministries rooted in the teachings of the Catholic Church to make a lasting impact in our communities and the lives of others. We are a non-profit community foundation dedicated to serving both donors and our Catholic community by facilitating charitable giving to impact and sustain a more caring community reflective of Christ’s love.

Why Teresa part of AFPWM?
"After more than 18 years in fundraising, I’ve come to value being part of the Association of Fundraising Professionals West Michigan as essential to both my growth and the integrity of our profession. It’s a community that elevates best practices, reinforces strong ethical standards, and challenges you to keep learning at every stage of your career. For me, AFPWM is a place to stay grounded in what matters most: building trust, stewarding generosity well, and walking alongside others who are deeply committed to advancing philanthropy with purpose.”

What is something valuable Teresa has learned or experienced as part of AFPWM?
"One of the most valuable experiences for me has been participating in National Philanthropy Day and serving as a mentor through the mentorship program. Both reinforced that philanthropy is not just about dollars raised, it’s about relationships formed and lives impacted. Mentoring, in particular, reminded me that we all have something to learn and something to give, and investing in the next generation of fundraisers is essential to the future of our work. AFP has helped me see our profession not just as a career, but as a vocation rooted in generosity and service."

Thank you, Teresa, for being part of AFPWM! We appreciate you!

06/12/2026

Do you know an outstanding philanthropist, volunteer, nonprofit leader, or community champion deserving recognition. Nominations are now open for National Philanthropy Day 2026.

Help us celebrate the people making a difference across West Michigan! Visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdYU7p6u7LoAM8zhf0OYD2TLInfSiICC4m-Uz_Bh9lrap8u4Q/viewform for more information.

06/08/2026

Meet Libby Crabb Wahlstrom this Member Monday! Libby is the Annual Fund Director at Paws With A Cause ® where they transform lives and strengthen communities through partnership with custom-trained working dogs.

Why is Libby part of AFPWM?
"I've been a part of AFPWM since I moved back to town in 2012. I think it's such a valuable opportunity for learning, networking, and connection. Not only have I appreciated the professional development and training opportunities, I've met some really amazing friends through AFP. The AFPWM network has helped me secure new jobs, get helpful feedback and support, and know the funding landscape in West Michigan even better. "

What is something valuable Libby learned or experienced as part of AFPWM?
"I received an AFPWM scholarship in 2023 to attend my first ICON conference. It was such a valuable experience to learn from national leaders in the field while networking with local friends and colleagues. It's something that I wouldn't have been able to do without the scholarship support from AFPWM."

Thank you, Libby, for your membership and participation!

06/05/2026

Save the date! The 40th Anniversary of National Philanthropy Day is coming to West Michigan on Thursday, November 5 at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

Join us for a special day celebrating generosity, impact, and the people who make our communities stronger.

06/01/2026

It's Membership Monday! Join us in celebrating Ethan VanOrman, Advancement Specialist with ICCF Community Homes where they focus on
equitable opportunity, affordable homes, and thriving neighborhoods.

Why are you a part of Association of Fundraising Professionals West Michigan, Ethan?
"As someone new in the fundraising world, AFPWM has been a crucial resource to help me grow in my position. Through AFPWM, I've found a community that's happy to provide me resources, encouragement, and opportunities."

What is something valuable you’ve learned or experienced as part of AFPWM?
"My favorite experience I've had through AFPWM was attending the National Philanthropy Day last year. I enjoyed meeting fundraisers from around the region who are passionate about addressing the injustices in their communities."

FYI: YOU can attend National Philanthropy Day on November 5 at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Check out details at https://afpwm.org/national-philanthropy-day/

05/19/2026

Inclusive events don’t happen by accident—they are intentionally designed to ensure everyone feels welcomed and respected.

Join Ashley Diersch at Paws With A Cause on May 29, 7:45a-9a.

Overview Inclusive events don’t happen by accident—they are intentionally designed to ensure everyone feels welcomed and respected. Register Here Description: Inclusive events don’t happen by accident—they are intentionally designed […]

05/15/2026

We are partnering with Drinks and Development again!

🤝 Connect with development colleagues
🧱 Build community
💡 Share ideas

The Mitten Brewing Company
May 19, 4:30p-6p

Hope to see you there!

05/13/2026

Summer Starts Here: New AFP Programs & Connections Ahead -

Fun in February

05/11/2026

We are starting Monday Member Highlights!

Meet Susan Hacker with Feeding America West Michigan. FAWM is committed to providing nourishment and hunger relief resources to our neighbors by amplifying the strength of communities through collaboration and advocacy.

“When I first started fundraising in 1989, I was encouraged to join my local AFP chapter and attend as many workshops and meetings as I could. Those have provided over 35 years of learning and growth opportunities, and just as vital, a circle of colleagues and friends.

Through conference speakers, monthly meetings, and webinars, I gain access to a wealth of knowledge from fellow fundraisers. This allows me to tap into a collective pool of expertise and experiences, covering everything from day-to-day operations and donor management to advanced techniques and emerging trends.”

Thank you, Susan, for your participation for 35 years!

Send a DM to share why you are part of AFPWM!

05/01/2026

A quick highlight reel from last Friday’s amazing webinar “Putting the AI in FundrAIsing.”

Bonita Jacksont with Community Foundation for Muskegon County facilitated a fascinating discussion with Jill Dooley from Kids' Food Basket and Anna Sytsema from Anna Kate Marketing about the benefits and pitfalls of integrating AI into our fundraising practices.

A great discussion was had around refining prompts, requesting AI to ask questions for clarity, comparing AI tools, developing both usage and governance policies, and next steps to take from wherever you are.

Thanks to all our speakers, AFPWM members, and guests who participated!

We’re looking forward to connecting May 29 about Inclusive Event Practices. You won’t want to miss it! Details and registration at https://afpwm.org/event/inclusive-events-in-practice/.