AFP Yosemite History

Our History

In the mid-1990s, Stanislaus County’s growing nonprofit community had few opportunities for professional development. Seeing this need, Carole Richard and Patty Stone explored forming a local chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (then NSFRE). With guidance from fundraising consultant David Barnes, they reached out to other nonprofits and officially incorporated the Yosemite Chapter in 1998. The name reflected the chapter’s broad geographic reach, stretching from the Sierra Nevada foothills to surrounding areas.

From its early days, the chapter offered monthly networking and educational meetings, hosted in donated spaces, and organized its first National Philanthropy Day luncheon in 2001. By partnering with the Modesto Rotary in 2005, the event grew significantly, and today it remains a highlight of our annual calendar. The chapter also hosted Fund Raising Academies, full-day workshops for nonprofit staff, helping strengthen the local fundraising community.

Today

AFP Yosemite has grown to over 50 members and continues to provide professional development, networking, and advocacy for fundraisers in our region. Chapter dues are $30. Learn more about membership benefits, or contact our Membership Co-Chairs:

Susan Mendieta-Beasley | (209) 549-8193 | beasleysm@prcfamilies.org
Christina Gusman-Meyers | (209) 932-3176 | cgusmanmeyers@pacific.edu

The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) represents more than 30,000 members in nearly 200 chapters throughout the world, working to advance philanthropy through advocacy, research, education and certification programs. The association fosters development and growth of fundraising professionals and promotes high ethical standards in the fundraising profession. For more information, www.afpglobal.org.

Local Member Organizations: 

International Headquarters

4300 Wilson Blvd., Suite 300
Arlington, Virginia 22203
Phone (703) 684-0410
Fax (703) 684-0540
Toll Free U.S. & Canada: 800/666-3863
Mexico: 866/837-1948