I’ve gone back to school this fall! Villanova University and
the Philadelphia AFP chapter are offering a 10 week course in Fundamentals of
Fundraising. I enrolled.
It is taught by leading practitioners in the field and there
are almost 50 of us in the class. Experience levels vary widely as do the
agencies represented, everything from Eastern State Penitentiary to Hagley
Museum. The presentations are comprehensive and the questions and ideas are
thought provoking.
We sometimes work in silos and forget how large and varied
the nonprofit community is. Even though you may have successful approaches to
problems and projects it is good to learn about other approaches that have
proven successful too. Having a comprehensive refresher opens your mind and at
times pushes you beyond your comfort zone.
Learning is an ongoing process. I am excited to be in a
structured learning environment again with such well-informed presenters,
interesting topics and engaging and committed classmates. I recommend
continuing education to everyone. Workshops, retreats, on-line offerings and
classroom programs all give us the opportunity to expand our horizons. Indulge
yourself and learn some new tricks. It’s well worth the time.
Now I have to get back to preparing for next week…..Major
Gifts is the topic. But before I go, here is a quick, easy recipe for a fall favorite!
Baked Apples
When you think of
school, an apple for the teacher might be one of the things that comes to
mind. And baked apples are an
easy, delicious way to enjoy the taste of autumn. Pair with ham, roast pork or chicken for a tasty side
dish. Or top with ice cream and
drizzle with caramel sauce for a comforting dessert. This is an easy and fast microwave baked apple recipe.
1 tablespoon
granulated sugar or honey
2 tablespoons brown
sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
2 tablespoons raisins
or cranberries (optional)
2 teaspoons butter
2 Granny Smith Apples
1.
Core the apples
2.
Mix the sugar and spices and dried fruit together. Place the apples in a deep glass or
pyrex baking dish. Spoon the sugar
and fruit mixture into the apples.
Place one teaspoon of butter on top of each apple, cover.
3.
Microwave the apples on high for 5 to 6 minutes or
until fork tender. Let the apples
sit for a few minutes before serving.
