Photography by Dero Sanford | Hair by Hilari Thibault & Maddison Wendland with Anue Salon | Makeup by Augusta Andrews with B. Barnett
“Especially during these challenging times. The Association of Fundraising Professionals helps advance our fundraising community.”
The Association of Fundraising Professionals creates an invaluable global network for its members. The AFP Arkansas Chapter President-Elect Jennifer Owens Buie elaborates, “Belonging to the Association of Fundraising Professionals sends an important message to the world that our industry is united and cares about issues such as ethics and public trust.” She is proud to lead a chapter with various distinctions and looks forward to National Philanthropy Day later this month.
The membership of Association of Fundraising Professionals Arkansas Chapter is 160+ strong comprised of approximately 150 nonprofit organizations. Jennifer recognizes the resources that it provides to her colleagues. “It’s an opportunity to connect, engage in creative thinking and achieve great things.” Benefits include access to professional development and career advancement which Jennifer considers incredibly important, “Especially during these challenging times. The Association of Fundraising Professionals helps advance our fundraising community.”
The landscape of Central Arkansas is more vibrant as a result of the countless nonprofit organizations that are committed to improving the lives of fellow Arkansans. Building a better, brighter community is the finite focus of the business and civic leaders that engage in this philosophy. “I originally joined to learn from the education sessions, but I quickly realized how much more the Association of Fundraising Professionals does – it’s an investment in yourself and your organization.” Jennifer acknowledges that AFP helped prepare her for her new role at Arkansas Repertory Theatre, but she credits her parents – and her tenure as a Brownie during elementary school – with her introduction to community service.
Jennifer’s love for the Capital City is unwavering. She attended UA Little Rock and that experience helped cultivate the leadership skills she utilizes today. “I was an active member of Chi Omega, it laid the foundation for what it means to be a part of the community.” Jennifer later joined Junior League of Little Rock and was introduced to projects with an emphasis on the welfare of women and children through school preparedness + wellness initiatives. Her gratitude for the Natural State is palpable and she appreciates the perspective her work provides. “I believe it is a privilege to lead, represent and serve your community; it makes all the difference in the world.”
