Association of Fundraising Professionals Silicon Valley Chapter

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Association of Fundraising Professionals Silicon Valley Chapter

AFP will help you in ways that benefit your organization and your career.

The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) fosters the development and growth of fundraising professionals and promotes high ethical standards in the fundraising profession. The Silicon Valley Chapter is proud to serve our chapter members with monthly luncheons, workshops, and other events of interest to professional fundraisers and the non-profit community. As the largest community of pro

fessional fundraisers in the world, we are dedicated to ensuring that members have the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to get the job done and to advance professionally.

08/17/2026

This month, we’re excited to spotlight Margaret Galvan, VP-Elect of Programs!

Margaret first became involved with AFP Silicon Valley as a 2025 IDEA Fellow, an experience she credits with helping her build connections, grow her confidence as a fundraiser, and deepen her involvement in our local fundraising community. Today, she continues that journey as a member of the AFPSV Board.

In her role as VP-Elect of Programs, Margaret helps shape the educational programs that bring our community together, from identifying speakers and topics to supporting the planning of our monthly programs.

Outside of AFPSV, Margaret is a Development Specialist at The Peninsula College Fund, supporting an organization dedicated to helping first-generation, low-income students graduate from college and launch successful careers.

We’re grateful to have Margaret’s energy, perspective, and commitment to growing the fundraising profession on our board!

08/11/2026

What if board fundraising didn't feel like asking for money?

One of the biggest misconceptions in fundraising is that every board member needs to become a solicitor. In reality, some of the most valuable contributions a board member can make happen long before a gift is ever requested.

Join AFP Silicon Valley on August 25 for Why Your Board Isn't Fundraising (And What Actually Works): The Board Moves Method with Katy Giron and Shannon Petrello.

This session will explore practical ways to help your board:
• Build trust with prospective donors
• Share compelling stories about your mission
• Leverage their networks with confidence
• Understand their role in fundraising without feeling uncomfortable

If you've ever wondered how to move your board from hesitant to engaged, this program is for you.

📅 Tuesday, August 25
🕥 10:30 AM–12:30 PM
📍 Sobrato Center for Nonprofits, Redwood City

Register today and join us for an engaging discussion with two experienced nonprofit leaders who have helped organizations strengthen board engagement and fundraising success.

07/27/2026

This week's AFPSV Board Spotlight features Shana Peete, Esq. (She/Her/Ella), our Co-VP of Education.

As CEO of the CEN - Center for Excellence in Nonprofits, Shana has dedicated her career to strengthening nonprofit leaders and organizations. Her strategic leadership, commitment to professional development, and passion for building resilient, mission-driven teams make her an incredible asset to both our chapter and the nonprofit community.

As Co-VP of Education, Shana helps shape learning opportunities that empower fundraising professionals at every stage of their careers. From educational programs and mentorship to professional development, her leadership is helping create meaningful opportunities for our members to learn, connect, and grow.

Thank you, Shana, for sharing your expertise and investing in the success of our fundraising community. We're grateful to have you as part of the AFP Silicon Valley Board!

07/21/2026

This week's AFPSV Board Spotlight shines on Maricris Morrison, our Co-VP of Silicon Valley Philanthropy Day.

Maricris brings a unique combination of strategic thinking, relationship building, and a deep commitment to philanthropy. In her professional role as Director of Fund Development at Pacific Clinics, she has helped build a culture of philanthropy, strengthened donor engagement, and secured transformational support for her organization's mission. She also shares her expertise as a speaker and workshop facilitator, helping teams turn complexity into clarity through thoughtful systems and leadership.

As Co-VP of Silicon Valley Philanthropy Day, Maricris helps lead the planning of our chapter's signature event, working alongside volunteers, sponsors, and community partners to celebrate the individuals and organizations making a lasting impact across Silicon Valley.

Thank you, Maricris, for your leadership, dedication, and the passion you bring to AFP Silicon Valley. We are grateful to have you on our board!

07/20/2026

Thinking about earning your Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential?

Join our online CFRE Study Group, co-hosted by the Silicon Valley and Monterey Bay AFP Chapters.

📅 Wednesdays
🕛 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.
📍 Via Zoom
📆 Beginning July 8

Whether you're planning to sit for the late summer or fall CFRE exam, this study group is a great opportunity to stay accountable, build your knowledge, and prepare alongside fellow fundraising professionals.

The CFRE credential demonstrates your commitment to ethical, effective fundraising and can help advance your career and professional credibility.

Interested in joining or have questions? Email Sharon Papo at [email protected] for more information.

We hope you'll study with us!

07/16/2026

Looking to expand your fundraising network?

Join AFP Silicon Valley for an evening of networking at Ludwig's Biergarten in Mountain View. Connect with fundraising professionals, nonprofit leaders, and philanthropy colleagues from across the Bay Area while enjoying great food, drinks, and conversation in a relaxed setting.

Whether you're an AFP member or simply interested in meeting others in the nonprofit sector, everyone is welcome. Bring a colleague, make new connections, and exchange ideas with peers who share your passion for philanthropy.

Thursday, July 30, 2026
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Ludwig's Biergarten
383 Castro Street
Mountain View, CA 94041

Registration:
AFPSV Members: $30
Non-Members: $40

Register and learn more: https://afpsv.wildapricot.org/event-6745142

07/15/2026

Every day, people and organizations across Silicon Valley make our community stronger through generosity, leadership, and philanthropy. Now is your chance to help recognize them.

Nominations are now open for the 2026 Silicon Valley Philanthropy Day Awards, celebrating the individuals, corporations, foundations, volunteers, and fundraising professionals whose impact deserves to be recognized.

Hear from Maricris Morrison and Dee Dee Kiesow in this video about why these awards matter and why we encourage you to submit a nomination: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=REpRlffb1PA

Know someone who has made a difference? Take a few minutes to recognize their contributions.

Nominations close Friday, July 17.

Submit here: https://form.jotform.com/260926254220047

Questions and supporting materials may be sent to [email protected].
Let's celebrate the people and organizations whose generosity continues to strengthen our community.

06/08/2026

Fundraisers find ways to bridge the various gaps in our society through the connections we build within our community. Has there been a colleague or mentor who helped you bridge the gap in your career, helped you make connections, and maybe introduced you to fundraising? If so, we’d like to ask you to support AFP in honor of that person, and consider making a donation to ensure ALL fundraisers have access to the AFP community and resources.

Donate now at the link below!

https://community.afpglobal.org/afpcasiliconvalleychapter/donate

06/01/2026

What actually makes a fundraising gala successful in 2026?

That was the focus of our May program last week with Greg Quiroga, where nonprofit professionals gathered to discuss the evolving role of galas, auctions, and Fund-a-Need campaigns in today’s fundraising landscape.

One of the biggest themes from the conversation was that fundraising events are becoming less about tradition and more about intentional donor engagement. Greg shared that while live auction revenue has remained relatively stagnant, Fund-a-Need giving continues to grow because donors want a direct connection between their gift and impact. He emphasized the importance of emotionally compelling storytelling, strategic donor priming before the event, and creating momentum early with pre-committed gifts.

The discussion also explored donor psychology, event pacing, stewardship, and how organizations can better engage younger supporters through experiences and community-centered fundraising. One quote that especially resonated with attendees: “Dessert is permission to leave.” Every minute of a gala matters, and successful events are carefully designed to keep energy and momentum high throughout the evening.

Thank you to Greg and everyone who joined us!

05/29/2026

Board Spotlight ✨ Meet Caroline Evans, AFPSV Secretary

Caroline has been a dedicated part of AFPSV leadership for years, helping strengthen connection and community across the chapter through her thoughtful leadership and steady support.

Outside of AFPSV, Caroline is a social impact storyteller with extensive experience in events, volunteer engagement, donor communications, and partnership development. Throughout her career, she has helped lead initiatives supporting thousands of volunteers and high-impact fundraising efforts, always with a focus on helping organizations communicate their mission in authentic and engaging ways.

As Secretary, Caroline helps keep our board informed, organized, and connected while bringing a collaborative spirit and deep care for the nonprofit sector to everything she does.

Thank you, Caroline, for your leadership and continued commitment to the AFPSV community! 💙

Address

840 North First St.
San Jose, CA
95112

Website

http://afpsv.org/

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