Advanced Studies: Worth the Time and Effort?

The CFRE boils down to marketability, says one nonprofit professional in a Chronicle of Philanthropy article on the merits of by David Whelan (March 20,2003). Today, about 4,000 of our 25,000 AFP members have the credential. CFRE International, now independent from AFP, is working to greatly expand that number. Does having the CFRE credential mean you will get the job you want or more money? Some nonprofit executives and recruiters say no. Others say yes.

The CFRE credential, according to boosters, helps those who attain it get better jobs, higher salaries and more respect from bosses and donors (Whelan). It is clear that more professionals earn the credential each year. And it is clear that more people are now seeking formal education about nonprofit management. A special report in the January 8th issue of the Chronicle details the recent expansion of college offerings. More than 90 colleges and universities now offer masters degrees or concentrations in nonprofit management, and more than 240 institutions offer coursework. Many courses (and even degree programs) are available online. All of this implies a new professionalism. While certification or formal education may not yet be a major or the major determinant in who gets hired and how much money they get paid in the nonprofit sector, it appears that we are definitely moving in that direction.

Greetings from John Gile

During National Philanthropy Day, we had the honor of recognizing our dear friend and colleague John K. Gile for his profound impact upon nonprofits in Western North Carolina. John was overwhelmed by the ovation he received and sends this note of thanks to all his AFP friends. John has a new address and welcomes your calls or visits. You may reach him at John K. Gile, Givens Estates, 100 Wesley Drive, Room 302, Asheville, NC 28803. Telephone (828) 277-8037. Aas you know, John loves to hear AFP gossip, so don't be a stranger!

Way to Go, J., CFRE!

Congratulations to Warren Wilson College Director of Annual Fund J. Clarkson on becoming a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE)!

There's Still Time to Join the Human Race!

Want an easy and fun way to fundraise for your organization? The Human Race is a 5K walk, run or roll on March 27th, 2004, 9 am to noon rain or shine, at UNCA Carl Straus Track (Health & Fitness Center for rain). Any WNC non-profit organization can join the race. Organizations receive 75% of the money collected by people racing in their name, and The Volunteer Center of Asheville and Buncombe County receives the remaining percentage for organizing the race and to continue to mobilize volunteers to make a difference in our community. The Volunteer Center does all the work of planning and marketing the race. Contact Kim Porter at 828-252-4357 or http://www.volunteerasheville.com for more information. (Check your local United Way or Volunteer Center for additional Human Race Events in WNC.)