National Philanthropy Day 2021



With Keynote by Lynne Wester, Donor Relations Guru

Rethinking Your Thanking: The Purpose-Driven and Donor-Centered Approach

Thursday, November 18, 2021

11:00 am - 12:30 pm

Registration FREE


The San Luis Obispo County Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) invites you to attend National Philanthropy Day 2021.

This year’s event will be virtual and LIVE on Zoom, Thursday, November 18, 2021 from 11:00 am - 12:30 pm and will feature a celebration of philanthropy within the San Luis Obispo County Community and a keynote presentation by Lynne Wester, Donor Relations Guru.

Philanthropy is so much more than simply writing a check. There are community members throughout our region who find ways to apply their talent and creativity to the causes they believe in. We will shine the spotlight on young philanthropist Claire Guyader and celebrate her creativity to provide hope to our neighbors in need. We will honor Mary Verdin and Verdin Marketing with the President’s Award for their service to our nonprofit community with their 24-Hour Give.

Join us for National Philanthropy Day 2021!

Please click HERE to register.

Rethinking Your Thanking: The Purpose-Driven and Donor-Centered Approach

We know acknowledgements can get bogged down by what organizations think donors want to hear: talking about the gift, providing updates from our organization, even making an appeal for future support. But what often gets lost is the true purpose — thanking the DONOR. Behind each gift made is a generous person with their own story and passion for philanthropy. By reframing our thinking and placing the donor at the center, our thanking can show sincerity, celebrate the humanity of our community, and build long lasting relationships.

Lynne Wester

Lynne Wester, Donor Relations Guru

Lynne Wester strongly believes that donor relations is the key to unlocking fundraising success and that organizations must be as dedicated to the donor experience, or DX, as they are to the ask itself. Sometimes referred to as the Olivia Pope of fundraising, Lynne helps organizations when they need it the most – when crisis or opportunity arrive.

Lynne and her teammates at the Donor Relations Guru Group partner with nonprofits large and small on a variety of initiatives from developing sound strategy and vision to utilizing technology and creating meaningful donor engagement - all designed to positively affect the fundraising bottom line. Her guidance has led her clients to be recognized on the national stage for fundraising innovation, creative communication, and groundbreaking donor relations work.

The DRG website in a unique industry tool filled with resources, samples and thought leadership on donor relations and fundraising. Lynne is regularly featured in publications such as the Washington Post, Chronicle of Philanthropy, and CASE Currents and has authored four books of her own on a myriad of industry topics.

Lynne received her B.A. from the University of South Carolina, holds a Masters in Strategic Fundraising and Philanthropy from BayPath University, and proudly sports a DUCKtorate from the Disney Institute.

 

President’s Award: Mary Verdin and Verdin Marketing

Join us in honoring Mary Verdin and Verdin Marketing.  Since 2014 they have put a full team of creative and strategic experts behind their 24-Hour Give: a complete donation of a total re-brand for one fortunate nonprofit. The Women's Shelter became Stand Strong, a dramatic change to a positive, empowered vision.  SLO Hotline became Central Coast Hotline, alerting our neighbors to the south that this vital service was available to them as well. The end result is hundreds of hours of pro bono expertise that strengthens local nonprofits by sharpening their message and catching the eye of those who may need their good work.

Special Thanks

AFP SLO County would like to thank the Premier sponsor for the National Philanthropy Day Celebration, The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County.

With special thanks to Netzel Grigsby Associates for their support.