Written by: Beth Harper Briglia, CAP & CPA, Vice President, Philanthropy Services

We often look closely at funds expended on memberships in professional organizations. Like me, you probably belong to several associations, and have to justify the cost to belong to those organizations. I have no trouble justifying my membership in the Planned Giving Council of Greater Philadelphia. Why?

PGCGP provided me with the mentorship that I needed when I entered the world of planned giving. A mentor is an advisor who can guide you to greater knowledge in a field. Trained as a CPA, I had years of professional experience. However, I had never engaged in philanthropic planning. PGCGP provided me the education to be successful. More importantly, I found colleagues who have offered their expertise and guidance as I have matured in my philanthropic advisory role. I am proud to call these colleagues my mentors.

Encouraged to join PGCGP by a colleague, I was welcomed into the ranks of those who at that time had much more expertise than I in this field. Volunteering on the Planned Giving Day Committee gave me the opportunity to meet experts in a field that often seems complex and confusing. My colleagues have introduced me to professional experts and information sources; urged me to obtain my CAP certification; speak at and participate in professional events and to serve as a mentor.

As a mentor, I enjoy the opportunity to give back to an organization and colleagues that have given much to me. One such colleague is Shelley Speirs who shares her story below.

Written by: Shelley Speirs, MBA, Director of Major and Planned Gifts, East Stroudsburg University Foundation

I was first introduced to the Planned Giving Council of Greater Philadelphia (PGCGP) by a colleague who invited me to a seminar as her guest.  The experience was very informative and offered a deeper level of understanding of philanthropic planning and planned gifts.  Speaker presentations and collegial conversations at subsequent events were equally stimulating and inspired me to become a member.

As a benefit of joining PGCGP, I was able to request a mentor and was matched to Beth Harper Briglia.  Beth has been helpful in answering questions, providing advice, sharing materials, and suggesting opportunities to engage with PGCGP.  By way of Beth, I became involved with the 2018 Planned Giving Day committee.  Since then, I was nominated to serve on the PGCGP Board. I graciously accepted and began my service in January 2019.  In April, I participated in the PG Course and have also committed to assist with next year’s programming.

I can honestly say, the benefits of my PGCGP Membership and the Mentor Program have exceeded my expectations.  I have been able to sharpen my skills in planned giving, remain current on industry news and trends, learn from field experts, create a network of professional colleagues, and provide service back to the organization.