As stated in the AFP Code of Ethical Principles, 'The Association of Fundraising Professionals exists to foster the development and growth of fundraising professionals and the profession.' Our mentoring program offers less experienced fundraisers the opportunity to benefit from the advice, counsel and guidance of more experienced fundraising professionals. Mentors are paired by the Mentor Committee with mentees who seek increased skills and confidence. Each team begins a one-to-one mentoring relationship by identifying a specific goal toward which to work during the committed time period.

The Mentor Committee provides support for the efforts of the teams to achieve agreed upon goals during the committed time period each year. Now in its tenth year, the program has paired numerous mentoring teams. In many cases the professional relationship has lasted well beyond the conclusion of the program.
 
Recruiting Mentoring Teams
Participation requires the completion of applications from prospective mentors and mentees. The Mentor Committee makes every effort to match mentors with mentees who work in similar disciplines (arts, education, social services, health care, etc.) and share interests in specific fundraising skills. Criteria for mentors include a minimum of five years experience in fundraising.  Chapter membership is required for mentees, and each prospective mentee identifies a skill or area of knowledge on which to focus.

Project-Based Focus
Mentoring teams are asked to identify one project with specific, tangible outcomes and time frames for their work together. The mentor guides the mentee in the successful completion of this project, so that when the mentoring relationship concludes the mentee has developed the skills necessary to replicate the project without assistance.

To volunteer for the Mentor Committee, please send your request to either of the Mentoring Committee Co-Chairs: Joseph S. Cuozzo, CFRE, jcuozzo@mercyneighbors.org or Donna Cleary donna@alsphiladelphia.org