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Association Forum Foundation – Member Support Fund Application

Empowering Association Professionals to Rise, Rebuild, and Renew

When life or work shifts, your career journey doesn’t have to pause.
The Association Forum Foundation’s Member Support Fund helps association professionals stay connected, reskill, and continue growing—no matter what season they’re in.

Whether you’re facing reduced hours, in between positions, or re-entering the profession, this fund ensures you can access the learning, community, and opportunities that keep your career moving forward.

Why It Matters

The Member Support Fund is more than financial assistance—it’s a bridge to opportunity.
It’s how our community stands together to ensure every association professional can continue learning, leading, and contributing to the industry we love.

Who the Fund Supports

We’re here for association professionals who are:

  • Working full-time and seeking additional support for development
  • Experiencing reduced hours or temporary furlough
  • Between positions or seeking re-employment
  • Re-entering the association workforce

Our purpose: to make sure every association professional has access to the tools, networks, and programs that foster resilience and career growth.

What You Can Receive

  • Up to $1,500 in support toward membership dues, learning programs, or event participation
  • Membership grants for non-members
  • Membership extensions for current members who have lost employment (per AF Board policy)
  • Access to exclusive educational programs, signature events, and peer networks

What is included in the Member Support Fund?

Recipients may request support for one or more of the following options:

Membership Options

  • ½ Membership (Through Mar 2026) – $157.50 value
  • 18-Month Membership (Through Mar 2027) – $472.50 value

Learning Programs (2026)

  • Fit for Purpose (Jan 2026) – $700
  • AI/CoPilot LAB Program (Feb 2026) – $215
  • Associations 101 (Feb 2026) – $390
  • Associations 201 (Mar 2026) – $390
  • Emerging Leaders (Feb–June 2026) – $1,440

Signature Event

  • Holiday Showcase 2025 (Dec 3–4) – $440

Applicants may combine requests as long as the total value does not exceed $1,500.
However, final award amounts are determined by the review committee based on the application, demonstrated need, and the overall needs of the professional community.

Please Note:
If you have already registered and paid for Holiday Showcase 2025, refunds will not be issued.
If you have additional professional development needs, you are encouraged to apply for a grant toward another eligible program.

Who Is Eligible

To qualify, applicants must:

  • Be an association professional—or preparing to re-enter the field
  • Demonstrate financial need tied to employment changes (reduced hours, job loss, or funding cuts)
  • Show a commitment to continued professional development and engagement

How to Apply

  1. Complete the Application Form – Provide your contact information and employment status.
  2. Share Your Story – Tell us about your connection to Association Forum (events, volunteering, or learning experiences).
  3. Select the Support You Need – Membership, learning programs, or signature events.
  4. Describe Your Goals – Explain how this opportunity will help you stay engaged and advance your career.
  5. Provide Financial Context – Share brief details about your current financial circumstances and development plans.

All applications are handled with care and confidentiality.

How Awards Are Determined

Applications are reviewed using a transparent scoring rubric based on:

  • Engagement and membership tenure
  • Financial need
  • Self-investment and initiative
  • Employer partnership or support
  • Community contribution and potential impact

Funds are awarded to the highest-scoring applicants until allocations are complete.

Important Dates

  • Application Deadline: November 16
  • Award Notification: November 26

Apply Now

Your professional journey matters. Apply today and let the Association Forum Foundation help you stay connected, confident, and career-ready.

Questions? Contact us at info@associationforum.org