STUART, FL - The Martin County Community Foundation (MCCF) sponsoredthe "Fired Up Fundraising" event for the Association of Fundraising Professionals on September 22 at the Wolf High Technology Center of IRSC in Port Salerno.

Gail Perry, author of "Fired Up Fundraising", presented her practical advice from years of successful fundraising to over 45 Treasure Coast non-profit executive directors and their board members who attended the workshop.

"Gail's passion for fundraising is infectious," said Bridget Baratta, Executive Director of the Martin County Community Foundation. "We walked out with a whole new toolbox of exciting skills to begin implementing her ideas. It was inspiring."

Sharing her how-to tips on successful fundraising, Perry told attendees how to channel their energies into productive fundraising, and overcome their fear of fundraising. She had attendees engage in role-playing that included rehearsing "cold calls", thanking donors with a personal phone call or handwritten note, finding out why they gave, taking donors on a private, behind-the-scenes tour, introducing donors to someone who has benefited from the organization, asking friends to be on the board, and sharing their passion which encourages donors' interest. She also stressed developing friendships first before asking for help; and suggested that board members can expand an organization's social networks by taking friends to see the organization at work and give them an emotional experience, then asking what moved them the most. Perry explained these sure-fire actions open the door, expand and connect new donors to the cause.

"Gail energized the meeting with exercises designed to stimulate new ideas and

overcome barriers to raising money in times of economic uncertainties," said Judy Cruz, president of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. "Her insight was invaluable, and got me thinking more about changing lives and less about raising money."

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About the Association of Fundraising Professionals

The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) is working to advance philanthropy through advocacy, research, education, and certification programs, and fosters the development and growth of fundraising professionals. The Treasure Coast Chapter represents some fifty charitable organizations in Martin and St. Lucie Counties. Visit the website at www.afptreasurecoast.org.

About the Martin County Community Foundation

The Martin County Community Foundation is strengthening the region's quality of life by building "community capital" - for today and tomorrow. Since 1988, it is privileged to facilitate the philanthropic spirit, identify important issues, share ideas, and build the financial resources to make positive long-term change in Martin County. To learn more about MCCF, visit the website at www.yourmccf.org.