Association of Fundraising Professionals Northwestern Pennsylvania Chapter

?? MEMBER SPOTLIGHT ?? We’re proud to highlight Breanna Watts, Director of Development at Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania! Breanna’s passion for philanthropy and dedication to a hunger-free community inspire us all. Her work helps connect donors, volunteers, and staff to a mission that makes a real impact. We’re grateful to have Breanna as an AFP member and for the meaningful contributions she brings to the fundraising profession! #AFPMemberSpotlight #FundraisingLeadership #PhilanthropyInAction #AFPNWPA

?? Hitting a Home Run With Your Annual Fundraising Plan ?? Is your annual fundraising plan solid, but could use improvement? Maybe it’s unrealistic, hard to follow, or… nonexistent? If any of these sound familiar, join Jeff Bagel, CFRE, on March 25, 2025, for an interactive workshop designed to help you build, refine, and actually use a strategic plan that makes your work easier. Jeff, author of Annual Fundraising Plans Made Simple (2nd Edition, CASE 2024), will share expert insights and lead hands-on exercises to strengthen your approach. You’ll also connect with fellow fundraisers and leave with actionable strategies to elevate your fundraising efforts. ?? Registration includes lunch and a signed copy of Jeff’s book! Don’t miss this chance to transform your annual fundraising strategy—sign up today! https://lnkd.in/e8XyzhAF

Looking to connect with fellow donor relations professionals over coffee? Join The DRX Collab for Donor Relations Coffee Talk, a free networking event where you can share ideas, ask for advice, and navigate industry challenges with your peers. Enjoy meaningful conversations in a relaxed setting at one of their upcoming gatherings: Tuesday, May 6 at LaBella Bean Coffee House in Bridgeville, PA; Wednesday, May 14 at Bean & Bear Cafe in Edinboro, PA; and Wednesday, May 21 at Cellar Door Coffee Co. in Garrettsville, OH. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with like-minded professionals and gain new insights. Register now at https://lnkd.in/eRCHrXRR and join the conversation! ? #DonorRelations #Fundraising #Networking #CoffeeTalk

Melanie serves as the VP for Education in our chapter -- we are lucky to have her here in NWPA!

This week, we’re happy to highlight Jordan Saeli, M.A. who serves as the associate director of annual giving & alumni communications at Gannon University! Jordan shared: "My role gives me purpose and joy, knowing that my work makes a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Every day brings new opportunities to engage, build relationships, and serve those around me." Through her work, Jordan fosters meaningful connections between alumni and their alma mater, strengthening the Gannon community and inspiring support for future generations. Her passion for philanthropy and engagement makes a lasting impact. We’re proud to have Jordan as part of AFP NWPA, where she continues to grow, inspire, and uplift our community! ???? #AFPNWPA #MemberSpotlight #CommunityImpact #AlumniEngagement

Congratulations to Juliet Hilburn – 2025 Chamberlain Scholar. We are proud to announce that Juliet Hilburn has been selected as this year’s AFP NWPA Chamberlain Scholar. Her passion for fundraising stood out to the selection committee, and we are confident she will represent AFP NWPA well. As the 2025 Chamberlain Scholarship recipient, Juliet will receive: Full registration to the AFP ICON conference, taking place April 27–29 in Seattle. A $750 travel stipend from AFP NWPA to support flight, hotel, and other travel expenses. Congratulations, Juliet! We look forward to seeing all that you accomplish.

?? Membership Spotlight: Elizabeth Valkanas ?? This week, we’re thrilled to feature Elizabeth Valkanas, Director of Development at the Erie Philharmonic! Elizabeth shared: “I’m constantly inspired by how music brings people together and creates lasting impact in our community. I love connecting people with opportunities to support something they’re passionate about.” Her passion for philanthropy and community shines through in her work. We’re proud to have Elizabeth as part of AFP NWPA, where she continues to inspire others. Stay tuned for more member highlights as we celebrate the amazing professionals who make a difference! ?? #AFPNWPA #MemberSpotlight #CommunityImpact

Join us at our first Lunch and Learn session of the year!

?? Membership Spotlight: Christine Eddy ?? We’re excited to kick off our Membership Spotlight Series with Christine Eddy, Development Director at the Erie Downtown Partnership! With over 20 years in development, Christine shares: “At heart, it’s about building meaningful connections, driving impactful change, and empowering others to realize their philanthropic aspirations.” Christine’s work exemplifies the incredible impact fundraising professionals have in our community. Thank you for your passion and leadership, Christine! Stay tuned as we celebrate more amazing members! ?? #AFPNWPA #MemberSpotlight #CommunityImpact

??? Merry Christmas & Happy Hanukkah! ??? Wishing you a joyous holiday season filled with peace, love, and happiness. From all of us at the AFP Northwestern Pennsylvania chapter, may your celebrations be bright, meaningful, and surrounded by those you cherish. ?? #MerryChristmas #HappyHanukkah #HolidaySeason #AFPNWPA