Gary Kernahan believes fundraisers have much to learn from each other and celebrate at this year's Institute of Fundraising Scottish conference
In recent times we have seen many headlines condemning examples of poor fundraising practice but we must not let this stop us recognising and celebrating the excellent fundraising that takes place.
There are lots of examples across Scotland of excellent fundraising providing people who care with the opportunity to help the causes they care about.
Across the country we have charities providing vital services that so many people are dependent on. This important work undertaken by charities is only possible thanks to the people who work so hard to raise funds.
I have always believed that we have some of the very best fundraisers here in Scotland
Gary Kernahan
I have always believed that we have some of the very best fundraisers here in Scotland and I am delighted to chair the Institute of Fundraising's Scottish fundraising conference. Over two days in October fundraisers from all across the country will come together to share and learn from one another as they strive to be the best they can be.
This year we will hear plenary presentations from Adrian Salmon on Standing up for our beneficiaries and Alan Clayton will share research and examples from around the world to inspire.
Then we will have 40 interactive sessions with over 50 speakers sharing stories on how to create successful teams, how to improve the experience for donors and how to work with the new landscape of fundraising regulation to name just a few.
Our conference offers a once-a-year opportunity to meet and network with hundreds of other fundraisers. I will never forget attending my first conference 10 years ago and being surprised at how open every speaker I heard and every person I met was. They were so willing to share and to help their peers and I recall going back to work with a huge list of ideas that I wanted to implement. I know I’ll be taking a big list back to work with me again after this year’s conference.
I hope to see you there.
The Scottish fundraising conference takes place on the 4th and 5th October at the Glasgow City Hotel. Book your place by 29 July to secure your early bird discount.
Gary Kernahan is head of regional development for Scotland at Muscular Dystrophy UK and chair of the organising committee for this year's Institute of Fundraising Scottish conference.
