AFP Silicon Valley

July 2026 Newsletter

News you can use from AFPSV!

President’s Message

Celebrating July, Together with Purpose

Reflecting on independence, gratitude, and community.

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Happy July! This year, the month carries extra weight. As our nation marks 250 years since the Declaration of Independence, I’ve been thinking a lot about what freedom really means, and about the work that still lies in front of us.

My message this year has been a simple one: bridging the gap, together with purpose. There may be no better moment to sit with that idea than right now.

And yet, we’d be telling only part of the story if we stopped there. Independence did not arrive for everyone at once. For many communities, freedom came later, came partially, or is still being worked toward today. Honoring this moment honestly means holding both truths at once: gratitude for how far we’ve come, and clear eyes about how far we still have to go.

In many ways, that is exactly what those of us in this profession do. Fundraising, at its heart, is about closing gaps between need and resource, promise and reality, the world as it is and the world as it could be. Every campaign we run, every donor we cultivate, and every mission we serve is an act of bridge-building, and that purposeful work is the very heart of what we do together.

Thank You, and What’s Ahead

None of this happens alone. To our members, our board, and our support staff: thank you. Your generosity, your time, and the dedication that keeps this chapter running behind the scenes are the reason AFP Silicon Valley is such a special place to belong.

As we continue through this year, you’ll notice us leaning even more intentionally into community, creating more spaces to connect, learning from one another, and strengthening the bonds that make our work sustainable and joyful. We’re grateful to be building this next chapter with you.

In Closing

However you spend this July—celebrating, watching World Cup soccer, resting, reflecting, or all three—I hope you feel proud of the work you do and connected to the community that does it alongside you. The gap between where we are and where we hope to be is wide, but it closes a little more every time we show up for it, together and with purpose.

Save the Date

Upcoming AFPSV Programs & Events

Mark your calendar and join AFP Silicon Valley for upcoming opportunities to connect, learn, and grow with fellow fundraising professionals.

Connect with AFPSV

Happy Hour / Networking Social

Join us on Thursday, July 30 for a relaxed networking happy hour bringing together fundraising professionals in a lively German beer garden setting. Enjoy traditional brews, lite bites, and a welcoming atmosphere designed to spark meaningful conversations and new connections.

If you work in development, philanthropy, or nonprofit leadership, this is a great opportunity to share ideas and build relationships across the sector. Come unwind after work while expanding your professional network in a casual, social environment.

Upcoming AFPSV Program

Why Your Board Isn’t Fundraising

And What Actually Works
The Board Moves Method: A Trust-Centered Approach to Board Fundraising

Key Takeaways for Participants

Creating Opportunity, One Registration at a Time

A thoughtful change to program pricing will help create new opportunities for fundraising professionals early in their careers.

Now, every future member registration will help build a stronger foundation for our profession. By bridging the gap together with purpose, we’re creating pathways for fundraising professionals early in their careers to access experiences like AFP LEAD and AFP ICON.

Together, we’re helping ensure the next generation of leaders begins their journey with stronger footing, broader connections, and the opportunities to grow, lead, and make a lasting impact.

Annual Campaign

Support the Future of Silicon Valley Fundraising

As fundraisers, we know that true impact happens through connection. We bridge the gaps in resources and understanding across our community every day. But no one does this work alone. Who helped bridge the gap in your career?

Whether it was a mentor, a colleague, or the person who first introduced you to fundraising, we invite you to support AFP in honor of that person. Your donation ensures ALL fundraisers have access to the AFP community and resources to help them in their career in the same way.

As a chapter run by a lean, dedicated volunteer board, our annual campaign ensures that all local fundraisers have access to the same game-changing resources and community you enjoy. Help us reach our $16,000 goal to fund these three vital pillars:

Your gift today helps us build a stronger, more equitable fundraising community. Let’s bridge the gap, together with purpose.

Silicon Valley Philanthropy Day

Who Inspires You? Nominate a Silicon Valley Changemaker!

Silicon Valley isn’t just shaped by tech and innovation—it’s shaped by the incredible people and organizations who give their time, resources, and vision to make our community stronger.

Every year, AFP Silicon Valley shines a spotlight on the local heroes whose generosity and leadership create lasting, meaningful impact. But we need your help to find them!

Submit your nomination today and help AFP Silicon Valley recognize the people and organizations making a meaningful difference in our community.

Professional Development

Studying for the CFRE? Join Our Study Group!

Are you preparing to take the late summer or fall exam to become a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE)? You don’t have to study alone!

The AFP Silicon Valley Chapter and AFP Monterey Bay Chapter are co-hosting an online study group to help you prepare. Led by Sharon Papo (AFP Silicon Valley) and Steve McShane (AFP Monterey Bay), this group is recruiting fellow fundraisers who are ready to master the material and ace the test.

Take the Next Step in Your Fundraising Career

Becoming a CFRE is a powerful way to accelerate your career, boost your earning potential, and prove your mastery of ethical, best-practice fundraising to employers and major donors.

Get Involved

Join a Committee! Serve on the Board!

Want to develop or try a new skill? Use one that doesn’t fit your daily work? Build your network of advisors, friends—and maybe even future employers?

Pop a note to Laura & Margot at volunteers@afpsv.org —or contact the committee you’re interested in directly! We welcome members as well as future members to join a committee or consider other meaningful volunteer opportunities.

Meet Your Board

Get to Know Shana Peete and Maricris Morrison

Our volunteer Board of Directors brings a wide range of experience, leadership, and perspective to AFP Silicon Valley. This month, we’re highlighting two of the leaders helping strengthen our chapter and the broader nonprofit community.

Shana Peete

Co-VP of Education

As CEO of the CEN – Center for Excellence in Nonprofits, Shana has dedicated her career to strengthening nonprofit leaders and organizations. Her strategic leadership, commitment to professional development, and passion for building resilient, mission-driven teams make her an incredible asset to both our chapter and the nonprofit community.

As Co-VP of Education, Shana helps shape learning opportunities that empower fundraising professionals at every stage of their careers. From educational programs and mentorship to professional development, her leadership is helping create meaningful opportunities for our members to learn, connect, and grow.

Maricris Morrison

Co-VP of Silicon Valley Philanthropy Day

Maricris brings a unique combination of strategic thinking, relationship building, and a deep commitment to philanthropy. In her professional role as Director of Fund Development at Pacific Clinics, she has helped build a culture of philanthropy, strengthened donor engagement, and secured transformational support for her organization’s mission.

She also shares her expertise as a speaker and workshop facilitator, helping teams turn complexity into clarity through thoughtful systems and leadership.

As Co-VP of Silicon Valley Philanthropy Day, Maricris helps lead the planning of our chapter’s signature event, working alongside volunteers, sponsors, and community partners to celebrate the individuals and organizations making a lasting impact across Silicon Valley.

AFP Silicon Valley

Learn, Connect, and Grow with Us

From educational programs and networking opportunities to mentorship, volunteer leadership, and career resources, there are many ways to stay connected with the AFP Silicon Valley community throughout the year.

Thank you for being part of AFP Silicon Valley and for the work you do to strengthen philanthropy throughout our community.