RDS: Looking Back and Forward

I predict that Alliance members will find the Resource Development Services (RDS) ever more important in 2012 and for the rest of this decade. Further reductions in governmental revenues are expected by most agencies, philanthropic giving to the sector is far from keeping pace, and the needs of our clients are not diminishing.

RDS has accomplished so much due to the hard work of its founding volunteers and staff members over the past decade. I especially recognize the late Peter Goldberg. Peter, who I greatly miss. He supported and encouraged the many volunteers and staff who have devoted hundreds of hours of time to assembling reference resources; presenting seminars, webinars, and teleconferences; and counseling (at no charge) member executives and development directors on pressing problems through the listserv and personal conversations.

Another leader continues to be Bob Jones, chair of RDS and president and CEO of Alliance member Children’s Aid and Family Services in Paramus, N.J. His insight and experience have guided the RDS work plan and resulted in a curriculum that has been proven effective for our members.

So what about you? Are you and your colleagues taking full advantage of RDS? The manual, the seminars, and other learning opportunities? Resolve in 2012 to do so! RDS is appropriate for senior executives, board leadership, and resource development volunteers. Take full advantage of the benefits of Alliance membership and the RDS. The challenges of the decade require it.