about : president's letter

by Randy Fox
May 2005.

With the merger of NAPP and NAFWC finally completed and our first conference successfully behind us, we can breathe a collective sigh of relief. But we can’t rest for long because there is much yet to do. We are faced with many challenges but are blessed with immense opportunities. We have a world of experience and yet we have a clean slate. It is up to us to shape our identity, now, and for the future.

For those who attended the Spring Conference in Chicago, it would have been impossible to return home and not be inspired and excited. The quality of the presentations was both visionary and enlightening. The quality of the attendees and their commitment to their professions made me optimistic about our future. The quality of the relationships with long time colleagues and the welcome and acceptance shown to those new to the calling of philanthropic planning reaffirmed that we continue to do the right things.

NAPP and NAFWC had continuous access to new members. Both had organizations which delivered new members regularly. Those resources no longer exist and the challenge of finding ways to grow the membership rest with us. The conference could easily have had two or three times the attendance. We’re on our own to shape and create the fabric of this new organization.

What we become is up to you. While the board and its officers are “in charge,” we’re nothing more than your voice. We have a solid treasury, a set of workable by-laws, a committed staff and a new sense of direction. We can become big or stay small; we can do one meeting or two; same format or an entirely new direction.

My challenge to you is to think about what you want AiP to be and to become. Give us your feedback, your voice and your vision. Then help get us there.