This is my final blog post as President of this chapter, and I honestly can’t believe how quickly two years have passed. (Is this what everyone meant when I was younger and they warned me time would speed up?!). When I first started attending AFP programs back in 2012 – still cutting my teeth on fundraising – I barely knew anyone. I felt out of my element and unsure of my place. Two years later, I joined the Philanthropy Institute planning committee, and the rest is history! I am so glad I took that first step and got involved with AFP.

As we wrap up 2025 and turn our attention to 2026, I want to leave you with a few pieces of popcorn wisdom (some kernels that I hope will stick with you) as you continue your journey with AFP WNC:

  1. AFP WNC is what you make it. The more you put into it, the more you get out of it. Show up consistently. Introduce yourself to new-to-you faces. Commiserate when needed. Share your experiences. Join a committee. Ask questions. Your engagement shapes the value you find here.
  2. Change is inevitable. The workforce has changed. Your organization has changed. You have changed. Ten years ago, we hadn’t yet weathered a global pandemic, a devastating tropical storm, or the rapid-fire evolution of AI. Our chapter looks different than it did a decade ago. Meet change with grace, flexibility, and a willingness to try new things.
  3. You are not alone. We’re all figuring this out as we go. But it’s really nice not to walk alone. We are truly better together.

As I roll off as President, I am deeply grateful for your trust, your kindness, your ideas, and your willingness to embrace the unknown right alongside me. I hope to see you at our December Crafted Conversations and in 2026!

Sincerely,

 

 

Kate Frost
President, Association of Fundraising Professionals – WNC Chapter