How important is charitable giving to our society?

Very important. Total charitable giving in the U.S. is estimated at over $250 billion annually. There are over 1 million charitable organizations registered with the Internal Revenue Service. All data suggests that charitable donations will continue to increase and that the number of charitable organizations will grow.

How will earning a CGO designation help me?

A recognized professional designation will distinguish you from other planned giving officers, and in turn, distinguish your charity from others. Current and prospective donors will feel more comfortable working with a giving officer they know has the training and expertise to guide them through the philanthropic process. The CGO credential will also demonstrate your skills and commitment to the highest level of professionalism to current and potential employers.

What is the difference between being a Member and being a Fellow?

Membership is open to any individual or organization interested in supporting the Institute's mission and in need of the benefits offered to members. Only those professionals who have the requisite expertise and credentials are allowed to take the Fellowship exam, and only those who pass that exam receive the title of Fellow of the Institute for Stewardship and Philanthropy.

What are the benefits of becoming a Fellow?

In addition to the tangible benefits, Fellowship in the organization conveys to the public an expertise in charitable giving. This expertise will attract philanthropically-minded clients. Fellows will also gain prestige that will appeal to charitable organizations, which will recognize Fellows as leaders in the field of charitable planning with a high degree of professionalism and ethics.

What is the difference between a Fellow of The Institute of Stewardship and Philanthropy (ISP Fellow) and a Fellow of The Estate and Wealth Strategies Institute (EWSI Fellow)?

ISP Fellows are focused on charities and charitable giving. To apply for an ISP Fellowship, the applicant must show involvement and a high degree of knowledge of charities and charitable planning. Not only does an applicant have to meet the stringent standards required of an ISP Fellow, the applicant must also pass a rigorous examination that demonstrates the applicant's understanding and knowledge of key concepts.

To become an EWSI Fellow, an applicant must be appointed by the Directors of EWSI, Robert A. Esperti and Renno L. Peterson. They base their decisions on a comprehensive Application and by interviewing the candidate. Virtually all of the EWSI Fellows have superlative credentials and have taught courses that have been accredited by EWSI.