At the heart of ethical and community-rooted fundraising lies a deep commitment to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access (IDEA). For the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), IDEA isn’t just a set of principles—it’s a call to action. It’s a recognition that to serve our communities well, we must actively dismantle barriers, confront inequities, and lead with intention.

As fundraisers, we know that relationships are everything. Yet systemic barriers—rooted in race, gender, ability, class, and more—continue to shape who has access to opportunity, power, and capital. The IDEA initiative at AFP is a powerful response to these realities. Launched to elevate underrepresented voices and promote equity in the profession, AFP’s IDEA work helps ensure our sector is reflective of the communities we serve and accountable to principles of justice.

The IDEA initiative offers tools, training, and support to help fundraisers deepen their understanding and practice. Whether you’re just beginning to explore how to integrate IDEA principles into your work, or you’ve been leading equity efforts for years, AFP offers a wide range of resources to guide your next steps. Members can access:

  • Educational resources and toolkits for staff, boards, and volunteers
  • Webinars, reports, and trainings on inclusive fundraising practices
  • Affinity groups, mentorship, and peer networks to support underrepresented professionals
  • Templates and discussion guides for implementing change within your organization

👉 Learn more at AFP Global’s IDEA Center

As national conversations grow more polarized and some funders and institutions attempt to quietly push IDEA principles aside, our role becomes even more critical. Equity is not a trend—it’s essential to how we build strong, sustainable communities. Now is the time to recommit, to lead with courage, and to hold the line.

That’s why our AFP Western North Carolina Chapter is thrilled to welcome Rochelle Jerry, CFrM, Chair of AFP Global’s IDEA Committee, for a very special luncheon program on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM (location TBA). Rochelle brings a wealth of experience and a deeply thoughtful approach to this work. Her session will offer both a historical perspective on IDEA in fundraising plus inspiration and practical insights into how we can build more inclusive organizations and fundraising practices right here in WNC.

This event is open to all nonprofit professionals—executive directors, development staff, board members, volunteers, and partners. We’re also exploring hosting a networking reception the evening before to give members, funders, and local leaders the opportunity to connect more informally with Rochelle and one another.

Whether you’re attending the event, accessing IDEA resources online, or looking for ways to bring these conversations into your workplace, there are many ways to engage. A few ideas to get started:

  • Share this event with your networks and invite a colleague or board member to join you
  • Explore AFP’s IDEA content and commit to one new action you’ll take this year
  • Reach out to our chapter if you’re interested in partnering, sponsoring, or supporting future IDEA work

Together, we are stronger. When we lead with equity and open the doors to access for all, our entire sector becomes more resilient, more innovative, and more impactful. We hope to see you in September—and on the journey ahead.

By: Jess McLean
IDEA Co-Chair, AFPWNC