National Philanthropy Day Award

The AFP Suncoast Chapter has honored leadership in philanthropy in Tampa Bay through its annual awards program since 1989. These awards celebrate the outstanding contribution of time, leadership and financial support of a special group of community members and organizations who set new benchmarks of excellence in the acts of giving and volunteering.

Ever since President Ronald Reagan first proclaimed November 15th as National Philanthropy Day® over 30 years ago, communities across the globe gather to celebrate ethical and effective philanthropy and recognize those engaged in charitable giving and volunteerism.

We encourage you to educate your team and board of directors of the importance of this day and involve them in your nomination process.

Once all nominations have been received, our panel of non-member judges – a group of like-minded community volunteers from diverse backgrounds made up of business and civic leaders and past nominees – will review all submissions and select an honoree in each category based upon the criteria detailed below.

 

Philanthropist of the Year

NEW THIS YEAR: A $10,000 grant will be given on behalf of the awardee to the non-profit(s) of his/her choosing                                            

Presented to an individual or family with a proven record of exceptional generosity to a variety of philanthropic causes and who, through direct financial support, has demonstrated outstanding civic and charitable responsibility and encourages others to take philanthropic leadership roles in the community.

• Evidence of direct gift support and its impact on your organization.
• Evidence of encouragement and motivation given to others to take leadership roles in philanthropy.
• Description of participation and financial support to other non-profits in the community.
• Evidence of philanthropic support to innovative approaches to solving problems.

Philanthropic Corporation of the Year                                     

Presented to a corporation or corporate foundation (more than 100 employees) that has demonstrated outstanding commitment through financial support and volunteerism, encourages and motivates others to take philanthropic leadership roles in the community.

• Evidence of direct gift support and a description of its impact.
• Evidence of encouragement and motivation given to others to take leadership roles in philanthropy.
• Description of participation and grant support to other non-profits in the community.

Philanthropic Small Business of the Year                             

Presented to a business with 100 employees or less that has demonstrated outstanding commitment through financial support and volunteerism encourages and motivates others to take philanthropic leadership roles in the community.

• Evidence of direct gift support and a description of its impact.
• Evidence of encouragement and motivation given to others to take leadership roles in philanthropy.
• Description of participation and grant support to other non-profits in the community.

Gayle Sierens Volunteer of the Year in Philanthropy          

Presented to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills in coordinating groups of volunteers for major fundraising projects. The recipient should demonstrate exceptional skills coordinating and motivating groups of volunteers for fundraising projects and other initiatives for the benefit of charitable institutions and commitment to the advancement of philanthropy.

• Description of time, effort, and commitment to cause.
• Evidence of success in recruiting and motivating other volunteers.
• Description of impact on non-profit organization’s projects or initiatives.

Spirit of Philanthropy                                                                      

Presented to an individual, group or family that has recognized a charitable need and developed a unique approach to advancing philanthropy in the community. The award recipient will exemplify the spirit of giving above and beyond.

• Demonstrated extraordinary civic and charitable responsibility.
• Evidence of inspiring others to philanthropic action.

Philanthropic Service Organization of the Year                    

Presented to a service organization that has demonstrated outstanding commitment to volunteerism for the benefit of charitable institutions and a commitment to the advancement of philanthropy.

• Evidence of quality of leadership and organizational ability in fund raising campaigns.
• Description of time, effort, and financial commitment.
• Description of fundraising goals achieved by service organization.
• Description of participation in other community non-profit organizations.

Youth in Philanthropy                                                                   

Presented to an individual or youth organization (18 years old and younger) that has demonstrated outstanding commitment to volunteerism and fundraising for the benefit of charitable institutions.

• Description of the impact of his/her involvement.
• Description of specific achievements accomplished through the youth’s efforts including hours and length of service.
• Description of participation in other community non-profit organizations.

 

Elements of a strong nomination

• Nominee clearly meets award category requirements in which they have been nominated.
• The primary focus should be on Tampa Bay efforts. National and/or international philanthropic involvements will be appropriately considered, but will not substitute for local involvement.
• Describe how this person/organization has made a difference in Tampa Bay. Cite tangible and quantifiable examples of the nominee’s impact to the community. Discuss evidence of dedication, innovation, creativity and vision; include how nominee inspires and motivates others to act charitably.
• Add details and include hard data of direct support, including the financial contributions, volunteer activities, number of people impacted, outcomes, etc. Generate excitement and enthusiasm for your nominee. Share an inspirational story or anecdotal information; be descriptive.
• Focus on ongoing activities and overall efforts.
• Research what your nominee is doing with other groups; encourage other groups to also submit a nomination for your nominee.
• Submit your nomination as though the judging panel does not know your nominee – they may not! Be as specific and detailed as possible.

 

Past Award Recipients - Click Here to see previous Winners
Frequently Asked Questions - Click Here to see the FAQ Page

Proudly Sponsored by: