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Click here to download the 2011 Buddy Program Mentor Application!

Are you …

New to AFP and would like a one-on-one connection into our fundraising community?

An experienced fundraiser who is eager to share your insights with someone who may be new to fundraising?

Then the AFP Buddy Program is for you! The goal of the AFP Buddy Program is to help new members feel more connected to the fundraising community and to give experienced members the chance to become a mentor.

Here’s how it works

Buddy Pairs meet consistently for one year – monthly, quarterly, or at whatever interval works best. These meetings can take place over a cup of coffee while discussing how the first-year member’s job is going, having lunch together, or attending AFP events – whatever works best for both of you.

We will pair first year members of AFP with experienced fundraisers based on their areas of fundraising expertise. An e-mail will be sent to the Buddy Pair, letting them know they have been matched and that the experienced buddy should give the first-year member of AFP a call to get things started. If you’re interested in the Buddy Program, please contact us at (585) 586-7810 or send an email to [email protected] to get connected.

Testimonials

From experienced fundraisers:

"I’ve met with my buddy, she’s attended a luncheon, and attended the new member orientation. She is very appreciative and I feel good about being able to help someone. In general, I’ve heard very positive feedback about the program."

"My mentee is great. We've met for coffee and sat next to one another at last month's AFP meeting. He is extremely driven and has great experience in many areas. It has been great for me to get to know his organization as well. Thanks for the opportunity!"

"I somehow assumed that my mentee would be a “junior” development person, but she’s been in the field for a long time --- she’s just new to AFP! Silly me! I’m trying to get her on a committee or two. Nice match and a nice program."

From people who are new to AFP:

"My Buddy has been very helpful to me as I enter my membership to AFP. While I am not new to fundraising, it has been welcoming to have someone to show me the benefits of my membership. He and I have met for coffee and I have attended one monthly meeting thus far. I have expressed interest in committee work for AFP and he was eager to assist me in getting information on what I could do to help."

"My buddy is just fabulous! Very responsive to my questions, yes we have met and yes I have been to luncheons. A great experience overall!"

"I attended the new member orientation and luncheon meeting this month. I’ve spoken with my buddy on the phone and we’re planning to get together in the near future. Overall, I’d say AFPGV is a welcoming group and I look forward to getting involved."