Reflecting on Support During Latinx Heritage Month

Latinx Heritage month (also designated as National Hispanic Heritage Month) runs from September 15 to October 15 in the United States. It began as only a week celebration in 1968 and was expanded to be a month-long celebration in 1988. During this time, we recognize the contributions to the US by Latinx Americans and we celebrate the histories, cultures, and heritages of American citizens who are from, or whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. In addition to celebrating during the month, we have opportunities to teach and learn about others who may not speak the same language, practice the same religion, or follow the same cultural practices as us. Such education fosters understanding and acceptance.

The United States is home to people from hundreds of other countries. Centuries ago, Hispanics were some of the first people to come to the US. The Hispanic and Latinx culture and traditions have significantly impacted America in numerous ways—from art to food to philanthropy and the concept of community. The number of nonprofits serving Hispanic populations has increased dramatically as well as the number of professionals who identify as Latinx.

AFP created Affinity Groups so like-minded fundraising professionals could come together to have thoughtful conversations about various topics in our field. Gabby Herencia (she/her/ella) is the Director of Community Giving at Peer Health Exchange and helps lead the AFP Latinx Affinity Group. She shared with us her thoughts about the importance of the group: “Having a space where Latinx folx can come together embraces the elements that make Latinidad and Comunidad possible. I believe in the power of creating BIPOC systems of support, uplifting others that look like you, and amplifying the voices that often go unheard. That is why it's important to have opportunities like the Latinx Affinity Group as it allows individuals with similar cultural backgrounds to show up as their most authentic self.”
 
Having an Affinity Group for Latinx fundraisers strengthens the profession. When the turnover of development professionals is high, it can impede an organization’s ability to fulfill its mission. The Affinity Group meetings provide opportunities for members to get advice and to encourage one another. Such support can help keep fundraisers in their jobs. According to the Human Resource Standards Institute, “employee affinity groups produce several important benefits for organizations, including a more inclusive culture and improved recruitment and retention.” When organizations are too small to have enough employees to create their own groups, associations, like AFP, fill that vital role.

Gabby pointed out, “As a fundraiser, part of doing this work includes understanding how our differences can bring us closer together. It's a huge bonus if you have BIPOC fundraisers on your team. Not only will they bring their friends and families of diverse backgrounds to your organization but it will open doors to further diversify your donor base. When you have BIPOC folx that look like you at your organization, they attract more BIPOC folx to get involved, volunteer, and donate. Imagine if you had your donation marketing materials available in other languages? You could tap into a whole audience of supporters you never thought was available to you.”

To learn more about AFP Affinity Groups, including the Latinx Affinity Group, click here.