Name: Chanel Weaver
Title: Fund Development & Community Relations Manager

Organization: Dress for Success Rochester 

Member since: 2023

How long have you been working in the fundraising profession?
I have been working in fundraising professionally for almost one year.
 
What do you love most about fundraising?
I love enlightening people about my organization’s cause, and networking around town.

Why did you decide to join AFPGV? 

I was invited to the spring conference, and I fell in love with the organization. The small groups during the conference led by different AFP members really sold me. It showed how passionate and educated members are!

What do you enjoy most about being an AFPGV member?  

I am enjoying all the opportunities to be an active member and a productive member of the many spaces that AFP has to offer. I have connected with so many people in just a few months.

What example would you give of a strategy or practice you learned from a fellow AFPGV member or a recent AFPGV educational event that you have recently applied in the workplace that has brought you success? 

I am currently serving on the I.D.E.A. Committee. Other members of that committee have shown me the importance of representation and also being present in spaces where your views need to be shared for the betterment of the organization.

Why is Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access (I.D.E.A.) important to you and for the work we do every day as fundraising professionals? 

I feel that being a young African American Woman, I am the embodiment of what the I.D.E.A committee is all about. Sharing my views as a person in a place where I can be an advocate for all people is important to me. Being a woman, I am also looking out for the betterment of our lives and our careers and showing other people of color especially in spaces where they do not often see reflections of themselves has become my passion.

What is your advice to other AFPGV members? 

To other AFPGV members, don’t be afraid to use your voice and meet new people. Networking is a great tool. If you have a message share it—and if you are passionate about something you can find a team of people right here who can support you.

Let's get to know you! If you would like to be featured in our next member spotlight or would like to nominate someone, please contact us!