Are YOU ready for 2020?

Becoming a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) sets you apart

With 2020 just around the corner, it’s a perfect time to evaluate your career.  Are you are ready to set yourself apart, ready for your next career advancement, or ready to demonstrate your commitment to your philanthropy career?

If the answer YES to just one of these questions or all of them, then it’s time for you to consider becoming a CFRE.  The Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) certification was first awarded in 1981 and is the world’s only accredited certification for philanthropic fundraising professionals. While others may offer certificate programs or course work in nonprofit management the CFRE designation sets you apart as a fundraising professional. 

Here’s just four reasons that 2020 is your time to become a CFRE…

1. Career advantages and advancement. Stand out on the job hunt. CFRE certification can give you the “edge” when being considered for a promotion or other career opportunities. That’s why 89 percent of CFREs say the certification has enhanced their professional opportunities.
2. Greater earnings potential.  The 2018 Compensation and Benefits Study conducted by the Association of Fundraising Professionals showed that in 2018, CFREs in the United States earned on average $21,000 more than their non-certified counterparts. In fact, 83% of CFREs say earning their CFRE has had value in increasing their salary.
3. Reflects your personal and professional achievement. CFRE shows you have displayed mastery of the field by meeting requirements and standards set in philanthropy. Nearly 99% of CFREs say earning their CFRE gave them a sense of personal achievement.  Additionally, 9 out of 10 CFREs have gained increased recognition from peers by earning their certification.
4. Reflects your commitment to the profession. CFRE demonstrates to donors and funders that you are an ethical fundraiser who understands and cares deeply about the profession, the gifts that are secured and how they are directed. Donors can trust in the knowledge that CFREs pledge to uphold the Donor Bill of Rights and the International Statement of Ethical Principles in Fundraising and feel secure that their philanthropic vision will be honored and fulfilled.

For professionals with 4+ years of fundraising experience, now is the time to take action to become a CFRE in 2020.  To help you prepare, AFP of Southeastern WI is offering the AFP CFRE Refresher Course for the first time in 5 years in Milwaukee in January 2020. Taught by master trainers, this course reviews the six key topics covered in the test. Register for the two day AFP CFRE Refresher Course.  Scholarship funds will be available to attend this class. The AFP CFRE Refresher Course scholarship application is due by December 16.

For more information on the CFRE process visit CFRE.org or contact Shannon Watry, CFRE at shannonwatry@gmail.com or Andrea Homan, CFRE at ahoman@unitedcc.org.