Gary Kernahan on why fundraisers can't afford to miss this year's Scottish fundraising conference
As fundraisers we have a duty to ourselves, to our charities and to our donors to be the best we can be. As such, I believe, it is the responsibility of every fundraiser to own and drive their personal development – a responsibility that many fundraisers already recognise, which is why people are already snapping up their places at the 2017 Scottish Fundraising Conference.
The Institute of Fundraising (IOF) Scottish conference, presented in association with Johnston Mailing, is the must attend event for all fundraisers in Scotland. It offers a once-a-year opportunity to immerse yourself in the latest best practice, insight from and success of your fellow fundraisers.
The conference offers the perfect networking opportunity for the 300 plus fundraisers in attendance each day
Gary Kernahan
Every year the conference evolves. Over the two days, the event now offers 48 sessions across six different streams, so delegates will have more choice than ever. The different streams ensure there is something for everyone whether you are interested in corporate fundraising, digital communications or even strategic planning.
Looking across the programme I am delighted to add an international dimension with Nicolai Skotland from Agency Scandinavia sharing insights into digital fundraisers and Simon Scriver, the public speaking champion from the Republic of Ireland, sharing tips and tricks to improve your presentation skills.
There are sessions that will inspire you. Margaret Clift-McNulty will share the story of her nephew, Alasdair, who set out to raise £100 in memory of his brother and created the phenomenal #WheresAlly campaign. I also have no doubt that Alan Clayton will send delegates off equipped to turn their charities into a great fundraising organisations.
One of the great things about the charity sector in Scotland is how openly we share with each other. In addition to learning from our expert speakers, the conference offers the perfect networking opportunity for the 300 plus fundraisers in attendance each day, offering an ideal forum to make new connections and exchange views with your peers.
Don’t miss out on the chance to attend what promises to be the biggest ever Scottish Fundraising Conference. Join us on the 3rd and 4th October at the Doubletree by Hilton Glasgow Central. Book your passes now to benefit from the early bird discount. If you work for an organisation with limited training budget don’t forget that you can apply for a bursary place, kindly provided by Sharpestone Skinner, or to volunteer.
Gary Kernahan is chair of the Scottish Fundraising conference committee.
