The 2026 Planned Giving Challenge invites fundraisers to initiate or expand their planned giving efforts by focusing on three practical priorities: marketing planned giving with clarity and confidence, cross-training staff to recognize and elevate planned gift opportunities, and committing to intentional prospect meetings in the year ahead. This challenge is designed to help fundraising teams move planned giving from a long-term idea to an active, integrated strategy.
8-8:30am Coffee/Networking
8:30-9:30am Program
Presenter: Julie Schuldner, Consultant
Julie Schuldner recently transitioned from her role at The Sharpe Group and is now focused on building her real estate career. She is also collaborating with the Cape Fear Historical Society on the development of a strategic plan and serves on the Board of the Cape Fear Region Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP). In addition, Julie served as Sponsorship Chair for the statewide AFP conference, which was hosted in Wilmington for the first time in 18 years. Under her leadership, the conference raised more than $70,000 in sponsorships—the highest total in the event’s history.