While Louis Armstrong blew his horn, the great Billie Holiday sang “Do you know what it means to miss New Orleans?” If you missed Pride Philanthropy’s Fall Leadership Forum, you missed more than the Crescent City’s great music and food.
I was especially pleased to welcome and introduce AFP President Andrew Watt. His overview of philanthropy launched a powerful forum. Andrew spoke of the challenges not-for-profits face, and the opportunities before us. His comments on the importance of volunteer leadership, and the realities for small development staffs set the tone for a spirited three-days of learning and sharing.
New Orleans’ own Charlie Young shared a career’s worth of experience, his personal story of Hurricane Katrina, and real examples and recommendations of thriving through volatility.
DeKalb Medical Center’s Bob and Judy McMahan inspired everyone with their compelling story of volunteering, giving, leading, and loving their hospital, their community, their family, and each other.
Bill Stiles of the Johnson Group challenged us to build collaborative partnerships with our marketing colleagues, and the advantages of a coordinated message.
Our panel discussions and breakout sessions brought together development staff, volunteer leaders, and nonprofit administrators together to consider the importance of mission, operating in the face of constant change, major and planned gifts, and the successful small development shop.
If you missed this seminar, I invite you to plan now to join us this coming February 5-7 in Charleston, South Carolina, when we will explore “The Deep.” The Pride Development Institute’s Winter Leadership Conference will focus on the power of storytelling, and the importance and impact of connecting more deeply and emotionally with our donors, prospects, and leaders. Don’t miss our upcoming early bird savings announcement. Subscribe now, and then stay tuned for details.
AFP President Andrew Watt with Chris Rollins
