January 23, 2009 

Dear Friend of Philanthropy, 

Happy New Year!   

In talking with many colleagues over recent weeks, most agree that times are tough for fund raising.  Donations are flat or down from previous years.  Many donors are hesitant to make significant gifts until the economic picture brightens.  Ironically demands for many nonprofit services have gone up as a result of the poor economy.  Whether raising funds to provide scholarships or to help families struggling to make ends meet, many area nonprofits are busier than they have ever been.  This paradox poses a unique challenge for fundraisers.  We continually seek fresh, creative ways to engage our constituents and help our organizations achieve their programmatic goals. 

Fortunately for fund raisers in west central Wisconsin, there is a great resource to help – Chippewa Valley Fund Raising Professionals (CVFRP).  Being a member of CVFRP can help each of us succeed in today’s challenges, through:

• Attending quarterly educational programs.  Hear timely, useful tips on ways to strengthen your fund raising efforts and advance your organization;
• Networking with nearly 100 colleagues.  Receive a membership directory, making it easy to contact your peers and learn from their experiences;
• Accessing popular resources through the CVFRP collection available at your local library;
• Keeping up with local nonprofit news by posting announcements and job openings on the website (www.cvfrp.org).

More importantly, your membership will demonstrate your commitment to advancing philanthropy and the critical work of nonprofit organizations throughout the Chippewa Valley.  Collectively we have an impact on nonprofit professionals, volunteers, donors and recipients of services – virtually everyone in west central Wisconsin. 

I look forward to welcoming you as a 2009 member of Chippewa Valley Fund Raising Professionals soon. 

Thank you, 

Michelle Dingwall, President