Resources

Tools, tips and information for nonprofits

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Mobilizing Your Community for Advocacy and Social Change

"People can care deeply about an issue and still have very little idea how to influence it. We have a role in helping them understand where their involvement can make a difference and making that first step easy to take."

BlogArts & CultureAssociationsEducationEnvironment, Conservation & AnimalsFoundationsHealthHuman ServicesPublic & Societal BenefitReligionLeadershipAnnual GivingMajor GiftsBoard EngagementDonor EngagementCommunicationsDiversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI)Fundraising

If You’ve Seen One Board, You’ve Seen One Board: Why Governance Has No Single Blueprint

Benchmarking reveals there's no single blueprint for nonprofit board excellence. Learn why intentional, fit-for-purpose governance beats copying "best practices."

BlogArts & CultureAssociationsEducationEnvironment, Conservation & AnimalsFoundationsHealthHuman ServicesPublic & Societal BenefitReligionBoard EngagementLeadershipLeadership Development

Giving USA 2026: Donor Advised Funds Deep Dive

Discover key calls to action from Giving USA 2026 in Alford Group’s expert video analysis of philanthropy trends shaping the future of giving in the U.S.

BlogGiving USADonor EngagementFundraising

Giving USA 2026: Key Findings and Strategic Insights

For more than 60 years, Giving USA: The Annual Report on Philanthropy has been most comprehensive report on philanthropy in the United States. Its annual findings chronicle the economic, legislative, technological, and demographic forces shifts that shape the philanthropic landscape and influence how Americans give. 

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Giving USA 2026: Rewriting the Philanthropic Playbook

This comprehensive 90-minute webinar will draw insights from experts in their fields. These experts work directly with high-net-worth individuals, families, corporations, and foundations. They will share firsthand perspectives on how donors and funders are approaching investment, evaluating impact, and modernizing their giving vehicles in today's environment.

WebinarGiving USADonor EngagementFundraising

The Persistent 4%: Michael Greer on Giving USA 2026 and Arts Philanthropy

Learn from Michael Greer in this Alford Group interview on Giving USA 2026 and Arts Philanthropy

BlogArts & CultureGiving USALeadershipPlanned GivingFundraising

Learning Forward: Reflections on Professional Development 

Professional development isn’t a destination—it’s an ongoing commitment to learning, adapting and growing alongside a changing world. Drawing from experiences at AFP ICON and AFP Advancement Northwest’s annual conference, Frances Jacobson reflects on the value of staying connected to professional communities, challenging assumptions through research and embracing continuous learning as a core practice for nonprofit leaders and consultants alike.

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Creating a Culture of Gratitude Through Intention and Strategy

Creating a Culture of Gratitude Through Intention and Strategy explores how nonprofits can move beyond transactional thank-yous to build authentic, lasting relationships with donors, funders, volunteers and partners. Alexis Cooke shares practical stewardship strategies, recognition ideas and engagement frameworks that help organizations embed gratitude into their culture while strengthening donor retention and community connection.

BlogArts & CultureAssociationsEducationFoundationsReligionHuman ServicesPublic & Societal BenefitLeadershipFundraisingLeadership Development