“Is the CFRE worth the investment?”
“Does it matter whether or not I have it?”
It’s not uncommon for fundraising professionals to ask themselves these questions before becoming a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE).
We caught up with Vincent Law Kin Ming, a CFRE since 2006, to shed light on the credential’s role in his own career and practice.
He’s a self-starter who capably takes the reins when he sees a need to be met. He has founded both the Child Psychoecology Foundation and PhilanthroKids Academy to instill philanthropic values in young people.
As a tireless advocate for professional credentialling, Vincent served on the CFRE International board from 2017 and 2022. In 2023, he celebrates 17 years as a CFRE and 23 years in the fundraising profession.
Here, Vincent talks about the value of holding a voluntary credential.
The CFRE credential is an independent endorsement of my fundraising knowledge and experience. It has opened doors for many people, including myself.
Being a CFRE has significantly broadened my network. My time on the CFRE International Board further expanded my international connections.
During that period, I promoted the CFRE credential via speaking engagements at fundraising conferences in China, Japan, and Korea. Through these engagements, I successfully grew partnerships with multiple educational organizations to promote the CFRE qualification in Asia.
Third-Party Endorsement of Your Knowledge
I highly recommend both newcomers and seasoned professionals in the field consider obtaining the CFRE credential. It is the sole international qualification specifically designed for fundraising. Attaining it signifies a fundamental level of competence and signals a commitment to fundraising standards and ethics.
CFRE certification plays a crucial role in advancing the professionalization of fundraising. It’s not a credential you earn and then rest on your laurels.
CFREs recertify every three years to remain current. The continuous learning requirement for recertification serves as a cornerstone of our fundraising professionalism.
A Commitment to the Highest Standards
When explaining my CFRE credential to a donor who may be unfamiliar with it, I emphasize it is more than just a designation appended to one’s name.
It represents a deep alliance to fundraising and a promise to serve donors in a highly professional manner, ensuring their needs are met and their trust is upheld.
I believe fundraising professionals should strive to hold a voluntary credential, such as the CFRE. Doing so demonstrates not only dedication to the fundraising field but also serves as proof of their attainment of a globally recognized credential.
CFREs are fundraising professionals who showcase their expertise and drive for excellence, instilling confidence in donors and enhancing their standing within the industry.
Teams and Organizations Benefit With a CFRE on Staff
A CFRE brings a range of valuable attributes to an employer, encompassing respect for the fundraising profession, a willingness to go above and beyond, a continuous pursuit of new knowledge through lifelong learning, and a steadfast focus to achieve the organization’s mission and advance philanthropy.
These values contribute to the overall success and growth of the organization, fostering a culture of excellence among a fundraising team.
Employer Support
Employees are an organization’s most valuable asset. Investing in staff to become CFRE-certified should be considered an integral part of the organization’s long-term staff development and investment strategy.
Employers who prioritize the well-being and professional growth of their employees have a responsible approach to their duties as employers. By supporting and incentivizing CFRE certification, organizations exhibit their commitment to fostering a skilled and knowledgeable workforce, ultimately benefiting both the employees and organization itself.
CFREs Propel Worthwhile Causes Forward
When it comes to urgent priorities, CFREs in environmental nonprofits are doing work that will shape the planet’s future.
In light of climate change and the increasing global importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, a CFRE can help raise awareness and financial support for sustainable and responsible practices.
I see an opportunity to incorporate ESG principles into fundraising causes, engage donors who prioritize ESG values, develop fundraising strategies that align with ESG principles, uphold ethical standards, and foster collaborations with ESG-focused partners.
