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Dear AFP Central VA members and friends,

As summer begins to wind down, I'm excited about all that lies ahead for AFP Central Virginia this fall. From opportunities to strengthen our skills and connect with one another to celebrating the people and organizations making a difference across our region, there are many ways to engage with our chapter in the months ahead.

In September and October, we'll continue our monthly professional development programming with two dynamic workshops designed to help us grow as leaders and fundraisers. On September 10, Sarah Milston of The Spark Mill will share practical tools for leading with greater clarity and confidence. Then, on October 8, Robert L. Dortch, Jr. will challenge us to think differently about our funder relationships and how we navigate an evolving philanthropic landscape.

We're also preparing for two important opportunities to recognize and shape our community. Nominations are open for our 2026 National Philanthropy Day Awards, where we'll celebrate the individuals and organizations whose generosity, leadership, and service strengthen Central Virginia. And as we begin planning for 2027, we're inviting nominations for professionals interested in serving on the AFP Central Virginia Board and helping guide the next chapter of our work.

There's a lot to look forward to this fall, and I hope you'll find a way to be part of it—whether that's joining us for a workshop, nominating someone whose impact deserves recognition, or considering how you might lend your own leadership to AFP Central Virginia.

I look forward to learning, connecting, and celebrating alongside you in the months ahead.

Yours in service,
LaChelle M. Lewis, Ph.D.
Chapter President, AFP-CVA

LaChelle M. Lewis, Ph.D., 2026 AFP Central VA President

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AFP Central Virginia is committed to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access (I.D.E.A) in all Chapter activities.

Announcements

  • National Philanthropy Day Nominations Are Now Open

    By: Trammell Beckmann Trammell Beckmann , one month ago

    Every act of generosity has a story. National Philanthropy Day® is our opportunity to recognize the individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, and philanthropy strengthen Central Virginia and inspire others to give, serve, and lead.

    AFP Central Virginia is now accepting nominations for the 2026 National Philanthropy Day Awards. We invite you to help us celebrate those making a lasting impact across our communities by submitting a nomination in one of the following categories:

    • Emerging Philanthropic Leader Award
    • Enduring Spirit of Philanthropy Award
    • Outstanding Organizational Partner Award
    • Volunteer Impact Award

    Award recipients will be recognized during AFP Central Virginia's reimagined National Philanthropy Day celebration this November—a community-centered experience featuring service, learning, connection, and the recognition of our region's philanthropic leaders.

    Nominations must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 26, 2026.

    Click here to access the National Philanthropy Day Nomination Form.

  • AFP Central VA Scholarships

    By: Trammell Beckmann Trammell Beckmann , 5 months ago

    Invest in yourself! AFP Central Virginia is  accepting scholarship applications. When you join the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Central Virginia chapter, you receive the best resources for fundraising professionals, including access to mentoring, monthly program meetings, networking, and state and international conferences. You will meet colleagues in the region who understand the day-to-day challenges you face in philanthropy and will be your champion along the way, wanting to see you succeed. Learn more about member benefits.

    AFP Central Virginia’s scholarship structure aligns with our commitment to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access (IDEA). Our key goals for these scholarships are to remove barriers for:

    • Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC)

    • Fundraisers from small organizations

    • Members who are deeply engaged in AFP’s work to support and improve the fundraising profession

    Learn more and complete your application.

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