AFP-NYC Statement on Coronavirus COVID-19
Chapter Leadership Brief
By Steve Jacobson, AFP-NYC President and CEO, JCA, Inc.
While I typically would wish you a happy Friday, today is not, by any means, a happy day. We are all under threat from COVID-19, and its potentially devastating impact on our health and safety and the health and safety of our colleagues, family and friends. As a leading voice in our community for the professional advancement of fundraisers, we have a responsibility to enhance the lives and careers of our members and our fundraising community. But, we always have to consider the best interests of this community as we assess our engagements and interactions. With that said, AFP-NYC has decided to postpone all of our professional advancement programs and networking events through April 30th. Specific details on each activity will be forthcoming shortly.
This is a decision we have not made lightly. In recent days, the virus’s rate of infection has taken on seemingly exponential growth and there is no sign that the contagion will abate any time soon. Best practices indicate that we not take public transportation, congregate in large groups or come in close contact with anyone. We have to be smart. We have to be vigilant. We have to be safe.
Unfortunately, we don’t have a crystal ball and we need to take our actions for the time horizon that we can see. As we move forward, we will be regularly reviewing the upcoming events calendar. For now, our signature event, Fundraising Day in New York, is planned to be held as scheduled on June 5th at the Marriott Marquis on Times Square.
In terms of virtual, online educational and networking opportunities from AFP-NYC, stay tuned. We’ll be hitting up your inbox over the next couple of weeks.
Stay safe, everyone!