Welcome to Congress 2009

Enhancing Philanthropy Around the World

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Learning from the best means a lot to me. Listening to people with great insights makes me think differently, it sparks my creativity and enhances my knowledge and helps me become better at what I do. That’s why I look forward to Congress every year and that’s why I think you’ll really appreciate the line up we have for you this Fall.

We’ve gathered the best speakers in all areas of fundraising and challenged them to give you the best advice possible. Some of their insights are spread throughout this book but that’s just the tip of the iceberg.    

I hope you’ll join me at Congress 2009. See for yourself why many call this the best fundraising conference in the world. Together, we’ll learn, share, be challenged and inspired… and have fun!

We’re keenly aware that this is a pivotal year for most us. We’re all taking a hard look at how we do business and determining what needs to change, so we can thrive in today’s rapidly changing economy.

In addition to our terrific speakers you’ll be able to visit our world-class fundraising exhibition, with new products and services to help you succeed in these interesting times.

Our pledge to you is to deliver exceptional value, the best education and friendly faces to share the experience with.

Creating Congress is the work of many people and I want to thank all who make this possible from our sponsors, speakers, exhibitors, staff and volunteer organizers who work long and hard to make this event so spectacular.

Register today and join us!  See you at Congress.

Sincerely, 

J. Mark Hierlihy, CFRE

Chair, AFP Congress 2009

My favorite quote:

"We must be alarmingly enterprising, and we must be startlingly original …and do new and striking things which constitute a revolution."

— William Randolph Hearst