CFRE Program

What is the CFRE Program?

The Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) program provides the only internationally- recognized professional credential for fundraising professionals. The CFRE Program consists of three parts:

Application All candidates must complete a written application which requires information in four areas: Professional Practice; Education; Performance (dollars raised); and Service.  Click here to view additional information.

Examination Once a candidate demonstrates the minimum requirements on the written application, there is a written, multiple-choice examination designed to assess fundamental knowledge of fundraising theory and practice in the following areas: Prospect Identification, Solicitation, Donor Relations, Volunteerism, Management, and Stewardship. Two exam forms are available: one for U.S. and one for Canadian residents.

Recertification Once a candidate passes the written examination and is granted certification, he or she must apply for recertification every three (3) years. A new application updating your Professional Practice, Education, Performance (dollars raised) and Service is required. There is no examination requirement.

Ethical Code CFRE candidates must agree to uphold the Donor Bill of Rights and to adhere to a code of ethics and standards of professional practice in order to participate in the program.

Eligibility requirements are detailed in the CFRE Candidate Handbook which also contains an application. To receive an application for the CFRE program: call (703) 519-8480 or go to www.cfre.org/apply.html and click on "Apply Now" for online application.

AFP-MD Supports our Members' Pursuit of the CFRE Credential!

To assist you in preparing to sit for the CFRE Examination, AFP-MD has purchased three Participants Manuals entitled: CFRE Review Course: AFP's Review Course for the CFRE Exam.  This book is a wonderful resource to assist experienced fundraisers in preparing for the exam.  The books are available to AFP-MD members who have been granted authorization by the CFRE International to sit for the exam.  Contact the AFP-MD office at (410) 933-3460 to reserve your copy.

Mentors Program

MENTORS volunteer to support a protégé for a limited period (usually one to six sessions) over a maximum period of six months. Matching mentors' skills to the skills proteges hope to acquire is dependent on the available volunteer pool. Therefore, professionals with five or more years experience are strongly encouraged to volunteer for this program. Each mentor specifies the skills they are capable of and willing to share. Prospective mentors are accepted year round. To volunteer as a mentor, please email us at: mentors@afpmaryland.org

PROTEGES can request a mentor by sending an email message to protege@afpmaryland.org

ASSIGNMENTS: Mentors are added to our growing pool of volunteers and assignments are made as protégé requests are received. Every effort is made to make appropriate matches that consider the skills both sought and available. Also given consideration is the fundraising sector represented (arts, education, health care, museums, social services, etc.) Participants are urged to discuss plans for communication, tangible outcomes, and timelines before they enter into this learning experience. The most convenient forms of communication are encouraged and can be face-to-face, by telephone, email, and can include job shadowing. The duration of each session is at the discretion of the mentor.

Participation requires completion of applications from prospective career counselors and those interested in discussing a career move or a particular aspect of their work. The Career Connections Committee makes every effort to match those requesting assistance with someone who works in similar disciplines (arts, education, social services, health care, etc.) and share interests in specific fundraising skills.