A few weeks back I interviewed Andrew Watt, President and CEO of AFP International at AFP’s 53rd International Conference.
Interview Highlights (Transcript)
Here are a few brief excerpts from our interview. But definitely watch the video if you have the time. There are several important ideas Andrew shares.
The Critical Importance of Public Policy
AE: In your [AFP] speech, you focused on partnerships and collaborations. Can you elaborate?
AW: Most people know I come from a public policy background… collaboration is a great thing… bringing people together to really achieve something bigger than they can achieve apart.
So leverage. It’s really all about leverage.
If you look at any one of us and our relationships at the organizational personal level, how do you actually maximize the benefit of that? …It’s really exciting to see the innovation that comes out of that.
AE: Another thing you’re talking about is government and public policy. Tell us about that.
AW: We can roll it back and relate it to communications… Success depends on the buy-in of people around us and that’s the media, legislators, and individuals giving the money.
There is no more critical partner than government. We don’t need them to intervene. We need their support to give us space and potential to achieve the things we do on the ground. It’s critical to success.
AE: Can you give an example of something AFP is working on with regard to public policy?
AW: Yes, earlier this year I was on the Hill with a bunch of colleagues and organizations, just to say thank you to some elected representatives — from both sides. Thank you for the America Gives More Act. It went through before Christmas. It’s huge. They said the work you do is too important to become a political football. We know we’re going to look at tax reform, but we wanted to take the charitable provisions off the table.
Then they said – don’t get comfortable… you can’t depend on this continuing. You must continue to tell us why it continues to be important.
That’s why public policy is so important.
AE: What can individual AFP members do to support efforts like that.
AW: Just talk. You’re good at relationships. Take those skills out into the public… when you’re having a coffee with a friend. Talk about what you do. Do it with that lens.
Watch the full interview for more on this topic.
Research Will Lead the Way
AE: AFP is involved with a variety of research projects. Can you tell us what they are?
AW: We’re working with fabulous partners… Giving USA, Urban Institute on projects like the Fundraising Effectiveness Project, the National Research Collaborative. It’s important because we need hard data for management and communication.
I’m a research geek. I keep research reports on my nightstand. I’m really excited about these partnerships around research. It’s helping us to punch way beyond our weight.
AE: I’ve been to several research sessions at this conference focused on research. I think people are hungry for the data, and it’s helping formalize the profession… so good work on that!
Watch the full interview for more on this topic.
Rebels, Renegades, and Pioneers
At this year’s conference, you unveiled a new track — Rebels, Renegades, and Pioneers. Why don’t you tell us about that?
AW: It gives us the opportunity to have some no holds bars conversations… to think more broadly about the big issues. So far, I’ve sensed real excitement about it… we’ve been live-streaming.
AE: People are so hungry for advanced topics, and it’s what you’re addressing in this track… having those higher level conversations.
AW: Absolutely. And, giving those advanced fundraisers the opportunity to interact.
AE: That’s one of the things I love most about this conference — all the networking.
Watch the full interview for more on this topic.
Final Thoughts from Andrew Watt
AE: Any final thoughts?
AW: We’re exploring new ways to operate in Canada, new educational programs, new research projects… watch every space that’s available because every space will be filled.
We want to hear from you. What are your thoughts on public policy, or some of the other topics discussed in this interview? Leave a comment below.
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