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AFP-NYC’s Emerging Leaders Committee: Driving Growth and Fostering Community in Fundraising

AFP-NYC’s Emerging Leaders Committee: Driving Growth and Fostering Community in Fundraising

Chapter Leadership Brief 10.04.24

By: Mike Esposito, CFRE
AFP-NYC’s Sponsorship Chair, Emerging Leaders Co-Chair, Nominating Committee Member, and Cohort 2 Mentor

Our Committee’s Role and Purpose

The Emerging Leaders Committee (ELC) of AFP-NYC exists to amplify the voices and potential of those newer to the sector, regardless of age, by providing mentorship, creating opportunities for learning, and fostering a strong sense of community. As Co-Chair, alongside of Brently Winstead, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the continued impact of ELC on the fundraising profession this year.

We act as a platform for professional development and a connector within AFP’s broader organization. Members are encouraged to join other subcommittees within AFP-NYC, facilitating collaboration across key areas such as Government Relations, Professional Advancement, Mentorship, Sponsorship, IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access), and more. Each liaison plays a crucial role in ensuring the fresh perspectives of emerging leaders are heard and considered in shaping AFP-NYC’s future initiatives.


 
   

Pictured Above: ELC Members Attending Fundraising Day 2024

In addition, we organize and host one to two events each year that aim to raise funds for the AFP-NYC chapter, educate the sector on emerging trends, and bring fundraising professionals together. In the past, we’ve hosted networking events, in-person panel discussions, and online webinars on topics ranging from donor-advised funds (DAFs) to crypto giving.

How We’ve Innovated Throughout 2024

This year, our focus has been on deepening relationships, both among our committee members and within the larger AFP community. As the fundraising landscape evolves, we recognize the need for fundraisers—especially those early in their careers—to have a strong network to rely on. To that end, we implemented several new strategies aimed at building a thriving community:

  • Monthly 1:1s Among Committee Members: Understanding the importance of mentorship and peer support, we introduced optional monthly 1:1 meetings to give members a space to connect, share experiences, and exchange ideas. These conversations foster meaningful relationships that often extend beyond the committee. Members can choose to meet virtually or in person for their paired 1:1, and because the meetings are optional, there’s no pressure to meet every month. A special thanks to Helena Ayan for expertly organizing these meetings each month!
     
  • Anonymous Support Form: We established an anonymous support form where members can ask questions or seek advice on any professional challenge they’re facing. This initiative has fostered open and honest dialogue while allowing the collective wisdom of the committee to address a variety of topics. At each monthly meeting, we review any support questions submitted that month, read them aloud to the group, and provide real-time advice. If no questions were submitted, we invite members to share a challenge they faced earlier that week or even that day.
     
  • Increased In-Person Engagement: Virtual meetings are convenient for our members in New Jersey, across the five boroughs, and on Long Island, but they often lack the deeper connection that in-person interactions provide. In response, we’ve increased the number of in-person gatherings. Many of these meetings are hosted at members’ offices after work, frequently complemented by pizza and snacks. These events offer a relaxed setting for members to build stronger personal relationships. Occasionally, we invite guest speakers to share their work and experiences with the committee. Past speakers have included development professionals from organizations like Planned Parenthood, and in the coming weeks, we’ll hear from the Executive Director and Founder of a newly established nonprofit.
     
  • Increased Conference and Scholarship Updates: We’ve also increased the frequency of updates related to AFP conferences, scholarships, and learning opportunities. By keeping members informed of these resources, we empower them to take their professional growth into their own hands. This year, we’ve seen increased attendance at conferences like Fundraising Day New York, AFP Global’s ICON conference, AFP LEAD, and chapter-led events.

Pictured Above: Closing Keynote Speaker Phyllis Webstad, Founder of Orange Shirt Day, Presenting at AFP ICON 2024 in Toronto

Looking to the Future: Goals and Aspirations

As we look ahead, the Emerging Leaders Committee remains committed to supporting the next wave of fundraising professionals. Our goals for the coming year include enhancing our educational event by planning earlier in the year, continuing to host a targeted networking event in the spring, and initiating sponsorship efforts in the fall to set the stage for 2025.

Moreover, we aim to build on our current momentum by increasing the visibility of our members’ contributions. By amplifying their successes and leadership, we hope to inspire others to get involved with AFP-NYC, join the ELC, and strengthen the community as a whole.

Through these initiatives, we believe the ELC will continue to grow and innovate, not only within AFP-NYC but across the entire nonprofit sector. The world of fundraising is always evolving, and with the right support, guidance, and resources, the next generation of leaders will rise to meet the challenges ahead.

For more information about the Emerging Leaders Committee and how to get involved, contact the AFP-NYC office at admin@nycafp.org

Mike Esposito, CFRE, is a dedicated nonprofit fundraising professional with nearly a decade of experience in developing innovative strategies for mission-driven organizations. As the founder of Mike Esposito, CFRE LLC, he partners with small to mid-sized nonprofits to enhance their fundraising efforts through tailored solutions, including major gift strategies, comprehensive campaigns, and donor stewardship initiatives. In his role as Co-Chair of AFP-NYC’s Emerging Leaders Committee alongside Brently Winstead, Mike has been instrumental in nurturing the growth and development of emerging leaders in the fundraising field. He also serves on the Board of Directors of ParaCliffHangers, a nonprofit committed to making climbing accessible to everyone, regardless of ability.

 

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