ADRP Strategic Plan 2026-2030

As ADRP enters its third decade, we do so with a renewed sense of purpose, focus, and optimism. Our 2026 – 2030 Strategic Plan builds on the momentum and learning of the past five years, most notably the successful launch of the Fundamentals of Donor Relations course and a sharpened focus on community, education, and equity. Informed by extensive input from board members, committee volunteers, and our member survey, this plan reflects who we are today and who we aspire to become.

In an evolving global landscape where donor expectations are shifting, technologies are advancing, and the philanthropic sector itself is under increased scrutiny, this plan is rooted in our commitment to elevating donor relations as a vital, strategic function – and to ensuring our members feel connected, empowered, and equipped to meet the moment. 

OUR MISSION

ADRP is the diverse community of donor relations professionals sharing education, knowledge, and experience, and empowering members to advance their careers and drive excellence in the field.

OUR VISION

To be universally recognized as the leading authority on donor engagement in the philanthropic sector.

OUR VALUES

Visionary leadership ● Absolute integrity ● Member empowerment and connection ● Service and program excellence ● Inclusivity, accessibility, and belonging

 

WHAT GUIDES US: The Seven Ends

ADRP exists to create specific outcomes for its members and the profession. These Seven Ends underpin all we do.

Member Maturity and Advancement

1. Members are positioned for career advancement and to be recognized as leaders and influencers in the profession.

Member Skills and Abilities Development

2. Members have access to high-quality, relevant, and diverse educational resources and offerings that support professional growth.

3. Members have opportunities to connect, collaborate, and exchange ideas with a diverse, global network of peers and industry professionals.

4. Members learn, apply, and advance effective, ethical, and innovative donor relations practices.

Member Experience

5. Members experience ADRP as an inclusive, welcoming and empowering professional community.

6. Members have meaningful opportunities to engage through volunteerism and leadership roles with ADRP.

Value of Profession

7. Members are knowledgeable and able to champion the value and impact of donor relations in the philanthropic landscape.

OUR CORE PRINCIPLE: A culture of belonging and empowerment

At the heart of ADRP is a commitment to treating our members the way we believe donors should be treated – with care, respect, and a deep sense of inclusion. We strive to foster an empowering, connected professional community where all voices are valued and donor relations professionals feel seen, supported, and inspired to lead.  

By 2030, we aim to:

  • Retain members at or above ADRP’s five-year average retention rate
  • Increase overall membership by 15%
  • Sustain non-higher education membership share at 40% or higher
  • Grow non-USA membership by two percent annually
  • Host ADRP’s second conference outside of the USA
  • Grow total revenue by five percent year over year
  • Ensure no more than 40% of total revenue comes from conference (revenue diversification)
  • Increase member engagement through data-informed growth targets, with the 2025 baseline guiding final percentage goals
  • Improve volunteer satisfaction by five percent
  • Publish at least one influential research or standards-based resource

What this means for you, our members

As an ADRP member you will:

  • See your voice represented in programming and priorities
  • Engage with a growing, diverse network of professionals
  • Access curated, cutting-edge learning content
  • Benefit from an organization focused on empowering your success

Together, we’re elevating the profession, and each other.

Our Five Strategic Priorities

1.    Membership

We will grow and sustain an inclusive, diverse, and engaged global community of donor relations professionals. We aim to:

  • Increase overall membership
  • Explore and test flexible, modular membership options
  • Improve representations across geography, sector, and demographics
  • Strengthen onboarding and member experience
  • Define, track, and increase member engagement

2.    Education

We will deliver a varied and relevant portfolio of educational experiences that underscores the value of donor relations in philanthropy and strengthens ADRP’s position as the leading authority in the field. We aim to:

  • Audit and align ADRP’s educational offerings with member needs
  • Develop a long-term roadmap toward donor relations certification
  • Expand and diversify ADRP’s education offerings to meet member needs and increase access
  • Strengthen ADRP’s thought leadership through research and content partnerships

3.    Marketing and Communications

We will elevate ADRP’s voice and visibility as the leading authority in donor relations. We aim to:

  • Increase awareness of ADRP’s offerings, value, and impact across the philanthropic community
  • Strengthen ADRP’s brand identity and presence across platforms
  • Position ADRP as a thought leader and convener of the profession
  • Evaluate engagement with communications channels and adapt strategy accordingly
  • Expand access and representation through inclusive communication practices

4.    Organizational Structure and Sustainability

We will advance operational excellence through strong governance, transparent administration, and a sustainable volunteer and leadership infrastructure. We aim to:

  • Ensure consistent organization review and strategic alignment
  • Strengthen Board governance and succession planning
  • Build a sustainable and rewarding volunteer experience
  • Improve internal coordination and communication across ADRP’s ecosystem
  • Embrace strategic use of technology and innovation
  • Review and evolve committee structures across ADRP to ensure strategic alignment and long-term sustainability

5.    Financial Health

We will ensure overall financial health and long-term stability of the organization. We aim to:

  • Increase, diversify, and balance ADRP’s revenue streams
  • Build annual processes to review and update ADRP’s revenue strategies
  • Strengthen ADRP’s sponsorship strategy to deliver mutual value
  • Establish robust financial governance to guide investment and spending decisions
  • Increase transparency and member trust through clear financial reporting and storytelling

Our Envisioned Future (10+ Years)

Looking beyond 2030, ADRP envisions a future where donor relations is recognized not simply as a function, but as a driving force in philanthropy. Donor relations professionals are seen as indispensable leaders – shaping strategy, strengthening trust, and stewarding impact across every corner of the philanthropic landscape.

Membership in ADRP is essential to career development. Philanthropy professionals at all stages turn to ADRP for the community, content, and credentialing that elevate their work and define their paths. Our courses, resources, and research are globally accessible, widely respected, and deeply relevant – grounded in real-world practice and future-facing thought leadership.

ADRP is widely recognized as the authoritative voice and convener for the profession. We are a catalyst for ethical innovation, a champion of inclusive and impactful philanthropy, and a trusted partner to organizations and leaders around the world.

Through this plan, we’re laying the foundation for that future – one that celebrates and elevates the donor relations profession, and one that positions ADRP as the home where that future continues to take shape.