Written by Dena Cochran - January 30, 2009

Question: Why don't more AFP members apply to become a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE)?

Answer: Fear of failure and the mystery of how to prepare.

Fact: Every CFRE felt the same way before beginning the process, and help is available. It isn't as bad as you think.

The CFRE certification program requires minimum levels of time in the fundraising profession, continuing education hours, fundraising performance achievements, and service to philanthropy as well as an exam. To qualify for CFRE certification you must have at least five years fundraising experience. You must renew your CFRE certification every five years.

The CFRE program is operated by the independent CFRE Professional Certification Board which consists of representatives of several partnering organizations including AFP.

So why put yourself through all of this? Because earning certification gives you professional recognition by documenting your experience and testing your knowledge of health care resource development. It establishes your fundraising credentials in a way that will make you a more effective fundraiser who is more valuable to your institution and more desirable should you decide to change jobs.

To mitigate fear of failure and demystify the preparation process a number of organizations offer classes and programs to assist fundraising professionals master key competencies and review for the CFRE Exam. You can find these CFRE exam prep courses by clicking on the Prep Courses key at the CFRE website.

If you belong to the Association for Healthcare Professionals (AHP) you can purchase a core curriculum series of review materials which can help you prepare for the CFRE exam. AHP also publishes a recommended reading list to prepare for the exam.

The CFRE exam will be offered a number of times in 2009. It is in electronic format at established test sites.

I'll bring you more information about test dates, sites, and exam format in the next San Joaquin Valley Chapter newsletter. I've attached the link the to the CFRE website. In the meantime if you have questions, please call me at (559) 624-2359.