You Can Do It (and We Have Your Back)

Well everyone, this is it!

The year-end giving season is the busiest time of the year for most of us. You've been planning for months, your campaigns are set, and if you haven't launched yet, I know your finger is hovering over the metaphorical big, red button.

But I'm not here to reinforce how important year-end giving is—or should/shouldn't be.

I'm here to remind you of two things during these often pressure-packed weeks: you can do it and AFP has your back.

One thing I've stressed to my amazing AFP staff this year, especially lately, is to give yourself and your colleagues a little extra grace.

These are complicated and stressful days in our sector and our world. We could all use a little more grace as we work hard to achieve the lofty goals set before us.

When you're feeling overwhelmed, take a step back. Remember that you're the expert, you've put in the hard work, you've got the rest of the fundraising community behind you, and you can do it. You're making incredible impact each and every day.

If you take that step back and you realize you need help, that's what we—AFP—are here for.

• Stuck and need help from a fellow fundraiser? Ask your question on AFP Connect.
• Need to know the latest trends or learn a new skill? We've got the research and a library of webinars.
• Looking ahead to 2023? AFP ICON awaits in New Orleans (and we've got the spectacular Emeril Lagasse joining us!)

So many fundraisers are working with constrained resources. It's easy to feel like you're on an island.

But remember that with these resources (among many), AFP has your back—as your bonus colleague, your additional source of wisdom, your sounding board, and so much more.

I wish you all the best over the next few weeks, take care of yourself and your fundraising colleagues, and remember that we're here for you!

And if there's anything I can personally do to make your year-end (or 2023) an even bigger success, please don’t hesitate to reach me via email at Mike.Geiger@afpglobal.org or on Twitter at @AFPMikeGeiger.

Mike Geiger, MBA, CPA