AHP Connect Details

The nonprofit sector is continually changing, presenting new challenges such as evolving donor behaviors, technological advancements, and regulatory shifts. As a fundraiser, professional education empowers you to adapt, innovate, and ensure your strategies remain pertinent and effective. Certification, such as the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential, promotes continuous learning, and reflects a fundraiser’s expertise and ethical dedication. Obtaining certification involves meeting stringent criteria, including proven experience, knowledge, and a commitment to ethical conduct. These standards help to distinguish certified fundraisers as reliable professionals within a competitive landscape. 

Advantages of holding CFRE certification include: 

Career Advancement 

Fundraisers with credentials often experience greater job responsibilities, improved career prospects, and increased earning potential, as certification validates their qualifications. If you plan to look for a new job in the next year, invest in becoming a CFRE before you apply. 

“I think it’s a good time for [healthcare] fundraisers to stay open to learning and adapting . . . CFRE certification provided me with the skills and strategic background that helped our team excel during the private phase of my organization’s most recent capital campaign. With this foundation, I was able to collaborate effectively with leadership and board members to drive results, ultimately exceeding our goal before the public launch,” shared Caroline Osmeyer, CFRE (Maryland, USA). 

Ethical Assurance 

The CFRE certification stresses adherence to ethical guidelines, minimizing the likelihood of actions that could jeopardize an organization’s reputation. This builds trust and strengthens relationships with your team, the organization(s) you serve, and donors. 

Michael Crisona, MS, CFRE (New York, USA), says, “I’ve had several donors notice my [CFRE] credential. It provides a sense of comfort and respect for them as I guide and advise them on their philanthropy using ethical fundraising best practices. I believe the CFRE is a critical credential for every professional fundraiser to obtain. It positions you with legitimacy and credibility among donors and peers.” 

Credibility 

Certified fundraisers showcase their commitment to excellence and proficiency in key skills: earning the respect of donors, colleagues, and governing boards. According to the 2023 CFRE Certificant Survey, 94% of CFREs say earning the credential gave them enhanced credibility with employers and clients. 

Cary Gaymond, CFRE (Vancouver, Canada), shares, “The most important benefit of having CFRE certification is the credibility it provides. It demonstrates your expertise, professionalism, and adherence to ethical standards in fundraising, which builds trust with donors and organizations. Earning my CFRE has positioned me as a credible and knowledgeable partner, fostering trust with allied professionals across Canada. This collaboration has been vital in designing complex giving structures that align with the unique goals of high-net-worth individuals.” 

Commitment to Continual Learning 

Initiating and maintaining CFRE certification requires training, study, and keeping up with the changing fundraising landscape. As you navigate the CFRE process, you have the flexibility to choose education programs you believe will provide you with the most benefit for your career. 

“I very much appreciate that a component of earning and renewing the CFRE is education. It’s made me appreciate how critical professional development is to staying relevant and successful. Earning my CFRE validated the hard-earned knowledge of fundraising I’ve gained throughout my career. It means dedication to continuing to grow skills that will make me a stronger fundraiser and help to improve fundraising outcomes,” shared Betsy Wason, CFRE (Washington, DC, USA). 

International Community Building 

With more than 8,200 CFREs worldwide (1,600+ in healthcare), you will be part of a global network upholding confidence, ethics, and professionalism in fundraising. Josué E. Hernández, MA, CFRE (California, USA), shares, “This community of seasoned fundraisers has been an invaluable resource in my career, offering advice, guidance, and support whenever I needed it. The CFRE designation has not only advanced my career but also connected me to a network of professionals dedicated to excellence in fundraising.” 

Become a CFRE 

Continuous education and certification equip fundraisers with the necessary tools, knowledge, and ethical foundation to excel in their roles. Fundraisers can build trust, strengthen donor relationships, and enhance their organizations' influence within the communities they serve as the CFRE emphasizes professionalism. In an environment where trust and transparency are critical, a commitment to professionalism is not merely advantageous—it is essential. 

If you have access to professional development funds, consider using them towards earning your CFRE. 

Bio 

CFRE International is the credentialing organization that provides the only globally recognized fundraising certification. Since 1981, Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE®) certification has signified professionalism, ethics, and confidence in fundraising. The CFRE® certification program is accredited by the American National Standards Institute. More than 8,200 fundraising professionals hold the CFRE® credential, demonstrating accountability, service, and commitment to making a positive difference in their communities. Visit www.cfre.org or follow on LinkedIn.