Happy National Philanthropy Day!
Every year, the Association of Fundraising Professionals and its 200+ chapters honor National Philanthropy Day. Chapters around North America (and beyond) host events in their communities, presenting awards to donors and bringing together all those who care so much about investing in the community through giving.
Although the actual day of the event might vary a bit from city to city, National Philanthropy Day always falls a week or two before Thanksgiving. And that's appropriate because, for the members of AFP, it IS our Thanksgiving. A day when we gather around the table with friends and colleagues to celebrate the many acts of kindness we see. A day when we honor giving in all forms, large and small.
Today, as president of the SC Lowcountry Chapter of AFP, I have the honor of serving as host of our annual luncheon. About 400 people will be coming to Thanksgiving "dinner" with us today. And we have a big program to serve up. We're thrilled to have Matt Dunne, who manages community affairs for Google, as our speaker (if you didn't know, Google opened a shop in the Lowcountry a year or so ago). Plus, we have two big awards to give out. Bill and Ruth Baker are being honored as the Outstanding Individual Philanthropists (nominated by the Medical University of South Carolina). And Charleston Place Hotel is being honored as the Outstanding Corporate Philanthropist (nominated by the Coastal Community Foundation).
I am so thankful today to love in a community where donors identify need and use philanthropy as a solution. I am thankful for my AFP colleagues (especially those who made the event today happen) and for the community we all serve.
What's better than National Philanthropy Day? Having is as a part of Philanthropy Week! For the fourth year in a row, AFP Lowcountry has partnered with the Coastal Community Foundation, the Junior League, Women Making a Difference, and the Center for Women on Philanthropy Week. And South Carolina Bank and Trust has graciously supported this collaboration, helping us to spread the message of service and giving throughout the Lowcountry. (Thank you SCB&T!)
So much is happening that is so good. Yep, I'm thankful!
You've heard me say this before, but one of the best things about working at Blackbaud is being surrounded by so many people who care about giving back. Collectively, we believe in philanthropy. Individually, we decide what form our giving will take.
We announced our Reward Your Passion grant winners for the most recent quarter a little while ago, and the list gives you an idea of the diverse causes our people choose as vehicles for making change. Each of the organizations listed has received a $500 donation in honor of a Blackbaud employee who serves as a volunteer. Join me in congratulating my colleagues for what they do.
The Exodus Foundation
Skate for the Cure
San Diego Casa
People Against Rape
Love, Inc.
The Center for Birds of Prey
Make A Wish Foundation of Massachusetts
Rainbow Trust Children's Charity
East Cooper Meals on Wheels
Arthritis Foundation, Carolina's Chapter
Nathan Weidner Foundation
Boston Living Center
Needham Opportunities, Inc.
Evans Home for Children