Connections. They are essential to every aspect of our lives - personal, spiritual and professional. While they tie us to our past and ground us in tradition and identity, connections are key to moving forward. As Lutheran Christians, we value connections to our past, to the larger community and to each other. These connections tie us together in community and move us forward in faith for service in and to the world.

Founded in 1979, the Association of Lutheran Development Executives (ALDE) is one of the nation's leading organizations of Christian development executives. The membership consists of more than 900 professionals in the areas of fundraising and communications.

ALDE promotes, teaches, and models Christian stewardship. The Association is comprised of 17 chapters, which promote networking and education, and provide opportunities for Christian fellowship. Members receive extensive benefits and services including:

• timely communications with updates on issues in our profession;
• executive searches;
• career training;
• the opportunity to explore professional issues and connect with peers.

But it is the shared goal of furthering God's mission in the world that brings together ALDE's diverse membership.

"I feel like my growth as a development professional has paralleled ALDE's growth. When I joined ALDE in 1982, the group was in its infancy, and my career was just starting, too. The connections I made guided me on the career path that has led to a great place." (Past ALDE president Frank Belden, Director of Development, South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation, Canada)