Have You Heard?

FS will host its second annual virtual conference and expo on May 19. The theme of the show remains the same as last year — Enlightening, Engaging and Empowering Donors — because that's pretty much what it all comes down to when you're trying to raise money and awareness for your important cause.

Like last year, the conference takes place completely online, and it's still free to register and attend.

You might be wondering how a virtual conference works. It's actually pretty cool. You register ahead of time, then log in to the live event on May 19. Once you're in, you have access to a virtual auditorium where you can take part in the live educational sessions; the trade-show floor where our sponsors will be hanging out to "chat" and provide information about their products and services; and the networking lounge where you can meet up with colleagues. There are even ice cream and coffee breaks, where participants can win free goodies. (OK … coupons for free goodies.)

Most of the sessions are live webinars, where speakers present their materials via audio and PowerPoint presentations, and then the audience can ask questions to be answered in real time. Some are audiochats, where speakers conduct their sessions live over the phone, with no audience 
participation, and others are pre-recorded webinars that can be accessed at your convenience. The show takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Our opening keynote will be presented by Andrew Bales, chief executive officer of Los Angeles' Union Rescue Mission and FundRaising Success' 2011 Fundraising Professional of the Year. The day ends with a rowdy bunch of fundraising pros — MINDset Direct's Kritstin McCurry, Merkle's Angie Moore, HRC's Ann Crowley, Paradysz's Amy Koop and ALSAC/St. Jude's Brian Cowart — sharing ideas about how nonprofit organizations can realistically benchmark their success.