(Shreveport, LA) – United Way of Northwest Louisiana staff members Bruce Willson and Jennifer Adams received and recertified their Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) accreditation. CFRE is a level of professional practice achieved and maintained for a standard of excellence. The Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) program assesses knowledge across elements of the fundraising role. CFRE’s work is underpinned by a regular survey of professional practice. Individuals who satisfactorily pass an assessment of this knowledge and who meet certain experience requirements can qualify as Certified Fund Raising Executives. Willson received this distinction in 2006 and recertified in 2015 for the third time. Adams received her certification in 2014 after a yearlong process. The CFRE certification process consists of three parts: a written application, a written examination, and agreement to uphold a code of ethics and Accountability Standards. There is a requirement to recertify every three years.
Bruce Willson assumed his position as President & CEO in April of 2008. He has assembled an outstanding staff and helped the agency refine its mission and strategy. The net effect of this work has resulted in renewed enthusiasm internally which has spread to the community at large for the work of United Way. He is a Certified Fund Raising Professional and an active member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, serving as the Immediate Past President of the North Louisiana Chapter.
Jennifer Adams is the Director of Resource Development. Adams has worked in Shreveport-Bossier City for more than 15 years. Her public relations and marketing background covers a broad spectrum to say the least – from travel and tourism to neurosurgery, non-profit to state government. Adams has earned certifications specific to her fields; which includes her CFRE and continues to seek educational opportunities to advance her knowledge and understanding of the changing world in which we live.
About United Way
For the past 80 years, United Way of Northwest Louisiana has improved lives of individuals by creating opportunities for a better life. Today, the organization is reaching beyond the historical role of passing through fundraising dollars and focusing efforts on specific goals in Education, Income and Health, while continuing to provide a safety net to ensure that the basic needs of individuals in crisis are still met. United Way of Northwest Louisiana serves 37 agencies and 5 partnerships throughout the 10 parish region. Anyone interested in becoming involved, making a donation, or volunteering time is encouraged to contact United Way at 677-2504 or visit www.unitedwaynwla.org.
About CFRE
The Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential was first awarded in 1981. In June 2013, the CFRE became the first globally-recognized credential for fundraising professionals. Since 2001, CFRE International has existed as an independent nonprofit organization. They are dedicated to setting standards in philanthropy through a valid and reliable certification process for philanthropic fundraising professionals.