In
the U.S., Certified Fund Raising Executives (CFRE) earn 17% more than their non-certified colleagues. The average salary
of CFRE certificants in the United States is $85,032. Statistics courtesy of the 5th Annual Compensation
and Benefits Study conducted by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) – January 2005.
Okay,
it pays to get your CFRE, but why else is certification important? Here are the top 10 reasons from CFRE International: Certification
grants you more credibility; Certification can improve career opportunities and advancement; Certification prepares you for
greater on-the-job responsibilities; Certification improves skills and knowledge; Certification may provide for great earnings
potential; Certification demonstrates your commitment to the fundraising profession; Certification enhances the profession's
image; Certification reflects achievement; and Certification builds self-esteem. Certification offers greater recognition
from peers. Visit http://www.cfre.org/why_certify.html for a more detailed discussion of the reasons to seek your CFRE certification.
Are you thinking
about CFRE certification? Our chapter offers mentors to members seeking their CFRE certificate.
If you are interested in a CFRE mentor to help you navigate the process, please contact Jennifer Richard at Jennifer@winklerconsultinggroup.com.
