Mentor Program Reflections
Reflections from participants in our AFP Golden Gate Mentor Program.
Being part of the AFP Mentor Program has been such an invaluable experience. My mentor, David Madson, has been an incredible resource – always generous with his time, thoughtful in his guidance, and proactive in thinking of opportunities for me to grow. His direction and encouragement have strengthened my confidence as a development professional and helped me navigate new challenges with clarity and purpose. I’m so grateful for the support and sense of community this program provides.
- Mentee
The AFP-GG Mentor Program has helped me strengthen and refresh our development approach at a key moment for our organization. As a result, I’ve built stronger strategies for event engagement, sponsorship development, and donor and corporate partnerships, each aligned with a clear mission and message.
It has also helped me refine how we communicate and structure engagement and campaigns for donors and sponsors. Because of this work, we’ve already seen measurable growth in engagement, support, and new partnership opportunities.
- Mentee
Why have I been an AFP mentor for over 30 years?
Because it makes me feel good to pay it forward. I had mentors early in my career who helped me grow in the profession. I want to do the same for others new to the fundraising profession. I also want to keep growing. The Mentees I have worked with have taught me a lot about generational changes, technology and, by virtue of asking good questions, have helped me better understand our changing world and our role as development professionals.
- David Madson, Mentor
The AFP Mentoring Program has been a transformative experience. I’m grateful to my mentor, Liz, whose guidance and encouragement have helped me advance my fundraising career. Through our work together, Liz has supported me in strategizing major gifts, reimagining aspects of our annual fundraising gala, and clarifying the direction I want to take in fundraising.