2025 Conference on Philanthropy

AFP-NJ’s 45th Annual Conference on Philanthropy

Learn. Network. Grow.

Step into a day designed to inspire, challenge, and connect you. The AFP-NJ Annual Conference on Philanthropy is the region’s premier gathering for fundraising and nonprofit professionals — a place to explore fresh ideas, build meaningful relationships, and elevate your impact.

Now in its 45th year, this can’t-miss event offers dynamic sessions, thought-provoking speakers, and hands-on learning experiences that meet you where you are — whether you’re just starting out or leading a major campaign.

Reserve your seat today!

Feel free to reach out via email with questions at afpnjchapter@afp-nj.org

Conference Registration Rates

Time until 2025 Conference on Philanthropy

Advanced Rates

Through November 8th 

  • AFP Members: $275
  • Future Members: $325

Final Registration Rates

Closes November 13th 

  • AFP Members: $300
  • Future Members: $350

Morning Featured Speaker

Marcy Heim

https://marcyheim.com/

Title: Shine On: The Generosity Mindset Experience

Luncheon Keynote Speaker

Laura Fredricks


https://laurafredricks.com/

Title: The 4 Asking Types – Which Are You?

Overall Conference Agenda

08:00 am – 09:00 am Registration/Breakfast/Networking
09:15 am – 10:15 am Morning Keynote – Marcy Heim, “Shine On: The Generosity Mindset Experience” – with original songs
10:15 am – 10:45 am Networking/Vendor/Sponsor Engagement
10:45 am – 11:45 am Morning Breakout Sessions
11:45 am – 12:15 pm Networking/Vendor/Sponsor Engagement
12:15 pm – 01:45 pm Luncheon Keynote – Laura Fredericks, "The 4 Asking Types – Which Are You?"
01:45 pm – 02:00 pm Networking/Vendor/Sponsor Engagement
02:00 pm – 03:00 pm Afternoon Breakout Sessions
03:00 pm – 03:30 pm Networking/Vendor/Sponsor Engagement
03:30 pm – 04:30 pm Afternoon Breakout Sessions
04:30 pm – 05:30 pm Cocktail Reception

Full List of Presenters and Titles

Presenter Name Presentation Title

Jessica Backofen

Grants: Are they worth it?

Lara Tilley-Bouez & Shawn McKay

Fundraising in Flux: Navigating Policy Shifts in Today's Climate

Priya Pachkawde & Jennifer Lui 

Financial Resiliency & Sustainability

Laura Fredricks

The 4 Asking Types -- Which Are You?

Lori Funicello

Power of Planned Giving

Jeff Grandy

Creating a Development Plan

Marcy Heim

Shine On: The Generosity Mindset Experience

Daniel Henkel

Leadership Without a Script: Learning to Lead When You're Not Ready

Jacqueline House, MBA CFRE

A Modern Feasibility Study: Six essentials to set your campaign up for success

Gary Laermer

Stewardship – It’s an experience not a thank you letter

Joie M. Langford, CFRE

Too Much of a Team Player: From Burnout to Boundaries and Bold Leadership

Leslie Marant

The Call to Courage: How Fundraisers Lead Change and Inspire Giving

William Miller

From Zero to $60M: Building a Winning Team from the Ground Up to Inspire Unprecedented Giving

Jesse Park

The Data-Driven Playbook: Campaigns That Cut Costs and Raise More

Billie Jean Ring

From Burnout to Brilliance: Revitalizing Your Fundraising Team

Click here for full session descriptions and presenter bios.

Executive Coaching Sessions

This year AFP-NJ will be offering 30-minute executive coaching sessions with one of two HR Professional Coaches. During these sessions, you will be able to discuss career opportunities, resume reviewal, goal setting, etc. Each 30-minute session is $25 for AFP Members and $40 for Future Members and can be added to your conference registration by clicking “+Add Items” and add “Executive Coaching Sessions ( AFP Member or Future Member).” 


Scholarships

Scholarships are available to offset the cost of a full-day conference registration fee. Apply here. Our application deadline has been extended to October 31, 2025.

Gwen M. Paxon

Co-Chair
Gwen M. Paxon, MA, CFRE
Catapult Fundraising

 Maria Healy

Co-Chair
Maria Healy
Catapult Fundraising

CHAPTER SPONSORS

Valued Exhibitors and Sponsors

Our valued Exhibitors and Sponsors will showcase cutting-edge products and a vast array of services designed to advance your organization's mission. If you or your organization is interested in becoming a Sponsor or Exhibitor, please click here to view our COP sponsor opportunities. 

Platinum Partner

Silver Partner

Bronze Partner

CONFERENCE SPONSORS

Breakout Session Sponsor

BREAKOUT SPONSORS

Ruotolo Associates

P3 Strategies