Mike’s Monday Message Takeover: Supporting IDEA in Fundraising: A Call to Action
While many institutions are busy crushing diversity and inclusion structures like last season's fashion trend, AFP knows there is much work to be done. As the new IDEA Committee Chair and Global Board Member (yes, you heard that correctly, and you know I'm excited to kick this door in!), I want to share why we should support AFP's IDEA framework now and in the future.
- IDEA is not perfect, but as a member organization, we have the power to dismantle systems and empower people.
- I am committed to this work because I've experienced first-hand both exclusion and inclusion in many professions. I remember when I was discouraged from joining professional development associations—trying to participate in educational sessions as a young professional and being quickly told I wasn't welcome. However, because an AFP Chicago Chapter leader listened to my story and encouraged me to apply, I am now involved in and mentoring young professionals entering the profession. This personal journey fuels my dedication to ensuring our sector becomes more accessible and welcoming to all.
- Research consistently shows that diverse organizations perform better. Studies in the nonprofit sector demonstrate that organizations with diverse leadership and inclusive practices raise more funds, reach broader donor bases, and create more innovative solutions to complex social challenges.
- IDEA initiatives create pathways for underrepresented professionals. By maintaining our commitment to IDEA, AFP continues to develop priorities that provide mentorship, professional development, and leadership opportunities for fundraisers from diverse backgrounds. This enriches our profession and strengthens our collective impact.
- Our ethical obligations as fundraisers demand it. The revised 2025 AFP Code of Ethical Standards emphasizes respect, dignity, and fairness. Supporting IDEA initiatives isn't just about compliance—it's about living our values and ensuring that philanthropy truly serves all communities.
- IDEA practices improve donor engagement. When fundraising professionals understand and represent diverse perspectives, they can better connect with donors from all backgrounds, leading to more meaningful relationships and sustainable support for our causes.
- We're building long-term resilience. We need resilience, more than ever, in our ever-evolving landscape. Organizations that embrace IDEA principles are better equipped to navigate societal changes, adapt to new challenges, and maintain relevance in an evolving philanthropic landscape.
Action Steps for Supporting IDEA
To strengthen our commitment to IDEA, AFP members can:
- Actively participate in AFP's IDEA training and educational programs
- Mentor emerging professionals from underrepresented communities
- Share success stories and best practices within their organizations
- Advocate for inclusive hiring and promotion practices
- Donate and support AFP's scholarship and fellowship programs
- Engage in honest conversations about barriers to entry and advancement in our profession
Looking Forward
While some organizations may step back from diversity and inclusion initiatives, AFP recognizes that this moment calls for renewed commitment rather than retreat. The challenges facing our sector—from wealth inequality to social justice—require diverse perspectives and inclusive approaches.
As your IDEA Committee Chair, I invite every AFP member to join in this crucial work. Our collective effort to advance IDEA principles will determine not just the future of our profession, but the impact of philanthropy on creating a more equitable society.
Together, we can build a fundraising profession that truly represents and serves all communities, ensuring that philanthropy remains a powerful force for positive change in an increasingly complex world.
We have a lot of work to do.
Rochelle Jerry
Professional Mission Driver
AFP Global IDEA Committee Chair
AFP Global Board Member
CEO + Co-Founder, Jerry Consulting Group, LLC
Adjunct Faculty - Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy - The Fundraising School
Author Information
Rochelle Jerry, AFP IDEA Committee Chair
Rochelle is a seasoned nonprofit professional with 29 years of experience, specializing in strategic and fundraising development. Her expertise spans grant writing, board leadership, governance, and volunteer engagement.
Throughout her career, she has served prominent organizations in leadership roles, such as American Student Dental Association (ASDA), Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), National Restaurant Association (NRA), The Chicago Children’s Museum (CCM), Society of Surgical Oncology (SSO), American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), Indiana Black Expo, Inc. (IBE), and the Indy Arts Council (IAC) raising over $16.1M.
She is currently an adjunct faculty member of Indiana University, Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, and is a member of the 2025 Black Leadership + Legacies Executive Women of Color in partnership with the Women’s Fund of Central Indiana.
Rochelle's innovative strategies have consistently boosted volunteer participation, leadership engagement, and fundraising outcomes. Her industry influence extends to conducting workshops, authoring articles, and teaching at conferences on topics including board strategic visioning, fundraising techniques, volunteer engagement, and grant writing. As a trusted resource and respected leader, Rochelle continues to shape the nonprofit sector with her supportive executive leadership approach.
Rochelle holds a B.A. in Marketing from DePaul University and pursued graduate studies in Nonprofit Management there. She has further enhanced her expertise with executive leadership and fundraising development education from Indiana University's Lilly School of Philanthropy, as well as public relations training from Porter Novelli and Ketchum Companies. As an active member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), Rochelle serves on multiple committees and the AFP Global Board of Directors.
Rochelle and William established Jerry Consulting Group, LLC and their firm assists organizations and leaders in enhancing community service through innovative governance and fundraising leadership approaches and social service strategies.
John Walker, Rugby Illinois Past President had this to say about Rochelle’s contractual work:
“I am so proud we contracted Rochelle in 2018! She created our first strategic & fundraising plan and implemented a governance volunteer committee structure. We can now complete our goals and serve our athletes. Rochelle’s association background and fundraising experience uniquely positioned her to do well in this role.”
Rochelle has been married to William for 12 years and they have a ten-year-old daughter, Paulena.