Vincent Law, CFRE

Before becoming a CFRE, fundraising professionals often wonder if the certification is worth the investment or if having it really matters. As a CFRE since 2006, I’d like to shed light on the credential’s role in my own career and practice …

The Value of Holding a Voluntary Credential

I consider myself a self-starter who takes the reins when I see there are needs to be met. I founded both the Child Psychoecology Foundation and PhilanthroKids Academy to instill philanthropic values in young people.

In 2023, I celebrated 17 years as a CFRE, and 23 years in the fundraising profession. As an independent endorsement of my fundraising knowledge and experience, the CFRE credential has opened many doors for me, including broadening my network. My time on the CFRE International Board between 2017 and 2022, especially, 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.

CFREs Propel Worthwhile Causes Forward

When it comes to urgent priorities, CFREs in environmental nonprofits are doing work that will shape our 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.

Third-Party Endorsement of Knowledge

I highly recommend both newcomers and seasoned professionals in the field to 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 is not a credential you earn and then rest on your laurels. Since CFREs recertify every three years, the continuous learning requirement for recertification serves as a cornerstone of our fundraising professionalism.

The Highest Commitment to Donors

When explaining my CFRE credential to donors 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 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.

Organizations Benefit with CFREs on Staff

CFREs brings a range of valuable attributes to an employer:

• Encompassing respect for the fundraising profession.
• Willingness to go above and beyond.
• Continuous pursuit of new knowledge through lifelong learning.
• 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.

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 the organization itself.