AFP San Antonio | Advancing philanthropy through education, training, and advocacy

President's Message

Here we are, 2021! A new year of education, training, and professional growth.

While the media and social media are recapping the year that was for us – like you, I learned lessons I never thought I would find myself experiencing – professionally and personally.

When I became a fundraiser by accident in 2003 by answering a help wanted ad, I knew I had basic skills to keep my organization’s mission afloat – raise money and then raise it all over again learning from mistakes, successes, and sheer luck. What I did not know was the science of fundraising. I quickly found my way to AFP in Nashville, and that is where the real learning and mentoring happened. I found my people and developed some significant crushes on peers who seemed to have this development and marketing down. And when I moved to San Antonio 7 years ago – I developed new crushes.

I have discovered that there is not an ultimate pinnacle of success for fundraisers. When I became a CFRE, it meant that my heart and head were dedicated to doing the best I can for my organization. It has also sparked this insatiable need to learn and relearn, which today has manifested into an addiction to hanging out with smart people.

You are the smart people I am talking about. Our community of fundraisers, marketers, and communication professionals.

I look forward to serving as President – and most importantly learning from you and with you.

Be well, friends!

Laura Leach, CFRE

President, AFP San Antonio & South Texas Chapter

Associate Executive Director, SA Life Academy

Upcoming Events

Philanthropy 2021: The Road Ahead

Save the date and join us for a panel discussion with philanthropy professionals about the road ahead in 2021 from the fundraising and fiscal management perspectives. As communities have recently navigated through uncertain times, nonprofits are instrumental in meeting the needs of the community during the corona virus pandemic. This special panel will discuss what the nonprofit sector can expect in the new year and how your organization can maximize these opportunities to meet the ever evolving needs of the San Antonio and South Texas community.

Panel discussion will be on January 21, 2021 at 4 pm via Zoom.

Registration coming soon.

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Welcome to the San Antonio Chapter of AFP!

As the seventh largest city in the nation, the San Antonio community is proud of its rich history, cultural arts, family focus, advanced health care, and, above all, the amazing people that make this community as diverse and unique as any in the nation. Known as Military City USA, we welcome new residents on a regular basis and support the needs of those who protect our country.