The AFP Fundamentals of Fundraising Course was developed with a foundation from the AFP Essentials of Fundraising Program and the AFP First Course in Fundraising course. It is up to date, including the latest in technology from social media to CRM.

The course is composed of 7 modules that have been designed by experienced fundraising professionals to meet the real-world needs and challenges nonprofit organizations face every day. This 16-hour program includes case studies and projects for groups and individuals to make the learning experience both substantive and enjoyable.

The AFP Fundamentals of Fundraising Course offers a complete overview of the development function, featuring the most current information and techniques. This 16-hour intensive program will provide an overview of skills, techniques, and program components for individuals with 0 to 4 years of fundraising experience.

Modules

Module I: Overview of Fundraising

Module II: Developing an Integrated Fundraising Program

Module III: Marketing for Ongoing Success

Module IV: Building and Sustaining Relationships

Module V: Securing the Gift

Module VI: Volunteers – Partners in Fundraising

Module VII: Management & Accountability

Completing the full Fundamentals of Fundraising course entitles participants to 16 point of CFRE credits.

Registration fee includes a printed manual, snacks, and lunch. Free parking is available in the Atlas Hotel parking lot. The course runs from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm both days.

Karen Mercier, CFRE, CAWA, MCIOF

Capital Campaign Director, Regina Humane Society

Fundamentals of Fundraising Course Instructor

Karen began her fundraising career in 2002 and is an experienced development specialist with skills in the areas of major gifts, annual and planned giving, events and capital campaigns gained while working for a variety of organizations in the Edmonton and Regina area.

Prior to leading the capital campaign for the construction of a new Animal Community Centre for the Regina Humane Society, Karen led the development programs at Habitat for Humanity Regina, the Regina Humane Society and the RCMP Heritage Centre. She has also served as a Campaign Consultant for KCI, worked in major gifting with the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) and held progressively senior positions with the United Way of the Alberta Capital Region.

Karen holds a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Alberta, a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) designation and is a member of the Chartered Institute of Fundraising (MCIOF). In 2020 she became only the third person in Canada to achieve a Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA) designation. In 2021, Karen completed the AFP Faculty Training Academy Course to become an AFP Master Trainer.

Karen volunteers actively in the community currently serving as a Director of United Way Regina, the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Foundation for Philanthropy Canada and AFP South Saskatchewan . She is also a member of the AFP Peeps Social Media team and Past Chair of both AFP Canadian Council and the AFP South Saskatchewan Chapter.