Finding Our Path in Fundraising Through AFP-GLAC
By Bridget Altman Paskil and Jonathan Rios, Co-Chairs Emerging Leaders
Bridget’s Story:
When I first started at the Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County six years ago, becoming a professional fundraiser wasn't even on my radar. Coming from a background of marine biology, science curriculum development and administrative duties, fundraising was a foreign concept of which I knew nothing about. But sometimes the most meaningful career pivots happen through the people we meet and the communities that embrace us.
I'm Bridget Altman Paskil, Associate Director for Major and Planned Giving at NHMLAC, and my journey with the Association for Fundraising Professionals (AFP) began while working on a campaign feasibility study led by Cassie Carter of Campbell and Company, who introduced me to AFP-GLAC. She encouraged me to attend AFP events and panel discussions, introducing me to other fundraisers and allowing me to find camaraderie in new peers. Cassie didn't just help me through our work together at NHM, through her own involvement with AFP, she helped me grow a professional identity in ways I never imagined. She also regaled me with her stories of rescuing squirrels (as if I didn’t already think she was the coolest!)
For the past 2.5 years as a fundraiser, AFP-GLAC has been my professional compass. The lectures and development opportunities have become essential learning experiences where I not only deepen my understanding of the field but connect with seasoned professionals who generously share their expertise. There's something powerful about being in a room with people who have built established careers in fundraising—their stories, strategies, and wisdom have helped me find my own identity in this profession.
AFP-GLAC isn't just an organization I belong to; it's the community that helped me discover my identity as a fundraiser and continues to nurture my professional growth. This group understands the unique challenges we face and provides the emotional camaraderie I need to effectively support the community we serve.
Jonathan’s Story:
My career arc has taken me across a wide range of mission-driven organizations- from orchestras and theaters to universities and now conservation- but the constant has always been connection. As a trained violinist and arts administrator turned fundraiser, I’ve discovered that the most meaningful growth happens through the relationships we build - with donors, with mentors, and with one another.
I’m Jonathan Rios, Senior Philanthropy & Campaign Officer at the Catalina Island Conservancy. Like many, I didn’t set out to be a fundraiser- but I found my path because I personally witnessed how philanthropy can transform institutions and empower communities. Along the way, mentors helped pave the way for a meaningful career in philanthropy, navigate new challenges, introduce me to opportunities I hadn’t considered, and showed me what leadership in this field can look like.
I joined AFP-GLAC to expand my network beyond the arts and become part of a larger fundraising community. What I found was more than professional development- I found a sense of belonging. AFP-GLAC offers not just learning, but a community of peers who share their wisdom, support one another, and believe in the power of collective impact.
Whether I’m crafting a campaign strategy or connecting with a donor about what inspires them, I carry with me the lessons of those who’ve helped shape my path- and the knowledge that in this field, we grow stronger together.
About Emerging Leaders Initiative at AFP GLAC:
Bridget and Jonathan’s paths into fundraising were anything but traditional- but what they share is a deep appreciation for the mentors, communities, and unexpected opportunities that helped shape their careers. Now, as co-chairs of AFP-GLAC’s Emerging Leaders Initiative, they’re committed to creating space for early- and mid-career fundraisers to build community, grow alongside a cohort of peers, and access the same kind of support that made a difference in their own journeys.
Whether through informal gatherings, mentorship opportunities, or resource-sharing, the Emerging Leaders Initiative is designed to meet fundraisers where they are- and evolve with the needs of the field. That’s where you come in. Please take a few minutes to complete our short survey to help shape the direction of our programming. Your voice will help us develop meaningful experiences that support your growth, strengthen our sector, and ensure the next generation of fundraising leaders thrives. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to either of us to talk and connect, we are here to serve you.
Click here to participate in a quick survey to help grow our Emerging Leaders Program