Join an AFP-Maryland Roundtable

Monthly Roundtable meetings of the AFP Maryland chapter are open to members only. 

AFP Maryland special interest Roundtables are an informal, but highly informative gathering of fundraising professionals who have challenges in common. Structure and requirements vary among groups and fundraisers are encouraged to reap the benefits of attending a roundtable or several in their areas of interest. For many of us, it's a relief to find that others have not only experienced some of the same challenges we face, but that they also have suggested solutions!

Meetings run 60- 90 minutes to accommodate the busy fundraiser's schedule. 

Non-members are welcome to attend any of the Roundtables once as a guest (i.e. once at annual, once at small shop, etc.). Questions? Please contact Roundtable Chair, Sheronda Nixon Booker.

View the Calendar of Events for upcoming schedule of roundtables.

Attendees are encouraged to RSVP to the roundtable facilitator to confirm date, time, location and topic each month.

We’re officially seeking members and colleagues to spark the next generation of learning conversations through our 2026 Roundtable Series!

Our monthly roundtables are designed to inspire collaboration, strengthen our sector, and expand the knowledge base of Maryland’s diverse fundraising community. This year, we’re taking a broader approach — moving beyond single-topic sessions to explore the full spectrum of development, donor relations, and leadership in philanthropy.

Whether your expertise lies in major gifts, corporate partnerships, planned giving, data-driven fundraising, DEIB initiatives, team management, or something entirely unique, your voice can help guide and uplift our profession. 

Roundtables are a fantastic way to test-drive a presentation idea, share insights from the field, and contribute to our collective growth.

Submit a 2026 Roundtable Proposal
https://form.jotform.com/252925028487061  

For best consideration, please submit by December 31, 2025.

Shared learning is one of the greatest benefits of AFP membership — thank you for helping us continue to advance philanthropy across Maryland.

GRANTS ROUNDTABLE

Facilitator: Erin Jackson 

Meets on the 4^th Wednesday of each month / 11:30am

Location:  Virtual Meeting via Zoom

Sample topics include:

• Managing the Grants Process
• Researching Grant Opportunities
• Proposal Writing (e.g., Needs Statements; Goals & Objectives; Evaluation; Budgets)
• Clarity in Writing
• Reporting
• Stewarding Institutional Funders
• Working Collaboratively with Program Staff
• Common Reasons Why Proposals are Declined
• Sustainability strategies

ANNUAL GIVING ROUNDTABLE

Facilitators: Emily Zikorus and Danni Lyles

Meets on the 2nd Wednesday of month / 12:00 p.m. (noon)

Location: Virtual Meeting via Zoom & In-Person

Sample topics:  Monthly Giving;  Annual Fund Strategies, Data Management, Storytelling Tips, Giving Programs

SMALL SHOP ROUNDTABLE

Facilitator: Sheronda Booker

Meets on the 3rd Wednesday of month, 12:00 p.m. 

Location: Virtual Meeting via Zoom

Sample topics:  Database Management, Engaging Your Board of Trustees, Peer to Peer Fundraising, Donor Advised Funds, Giving Circles, Major Gifts in a Small Shop, Communications & Marketing, Special Events, Development Planning, Donor Stewardship