Celebrating philanthropy
Nov. 15 a day to reflect and recognize those who give
National Philanthropy Day on Nov. 15 is a special day set aside each year to recognize and honour the contributions that philanthropy and people active in our global communities have made to our lives, our communities and our world. It’s also a day for Canadians to reflect on what philanthropy means to each of them.
Philanthropy is a deeply held value that is expressed in giving and volunteering. We have all in some shape or form, knowingly or unknowingly, practised or experienced philanthropy. It is the love of humanity.
I am a member, active volunteer and donor with the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) that advances philanthropy by enabling people and organizations to practice ethical and effective fundraising. AFP believes philanthropy is so powerful and inspiring precisely because it is voluntary — that through the goodness of our hearts, our need to connect, and our desire to see a better world, we come together to improve the quality of life for all.
Through the generosity of our communities, millions of dollars and millions of volunteer hours are given every year to worthy organizations, nonprofits and charities in the Hamilton area. Hundreds of programs and services — that help people who are homeless, clothe people in need, support student bursaries, redevelop our local hospitals — are made possible every day because of you and your commitment to your favourite causes.
Professional fundraisers are enablers of social good for nonprofits in our communities and trusted advisers to Canadian donors. It’s a role that is not well understood. Without a catalyst (a person in the middle) to bring together the donor who’s interested in making a difference, and the cause, the magic won’t happen.
For nonprofits, volunteers are an essential as partners to help professional fundraisers generate revenue and as board members to govern our organizations.
The impact of volunteers in Canada and in our community is significant. Volunteering is evident in the local tradition, from legion members selling poppies for Remembrance Day to employees volunteering time to organize special events for local charities.
People around the world celebrate National Philanthropy Day with award ceremonies, galas, luncheons, seminars and other special events. Outstanding donors, volunteers, corporations, foundations, small businesses, youth and others in philanthropy are honoured for their work in improving their communities and their world each and every day.
Locally, the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Golden Horseshoe Chapter, advances philanthropy through ongoing and meaningful educational opportunities and celebrates National Philanthropy Day with a luncheon on Nov. 16.
The Philanthropy Awards presented at the luncheon are not only a celebration of outstanding philanthropists and volunteers from our chapter and region who gave their time, talent and treasure to support great causes; it is a celebration of everyone.
I want to offer my sincere congratulations to the outstanding recipients of 2017 Philanthropy Awards from the AFP Golden Horseshoe Chapter:
Outstanding Philanthropists: Ron and Nancy Clark, Caledonia, nominated by Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation.
Outstanding Volunteer: Joseph Mancinelli, Hamilton, nominated by St. Joseph’s Healthcare Foundation.
Outstanding Corporation: Walker Industries, Niagara, nominated by OneFoundation for Niagara Health System.
Outstanding Philanthropic Group: The Hospital Auxiliaries of Niagara Health, nominated by OneFoundation for Niagara Health System.
Outstanding Small Organization: Georgetown Hospital Foundation, nominated by Georgetown Hospital Foundation.
Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy: Alex Hilson, Acton, nominated by Community Foundation of Mississauga.
Chapter Achievement Award: Roger D. Ali and Pati Greenwood, both past chapter presidents and long-standing AFP volunteers, nominated by the AFP Golden Horseshoe Chapter board of directors.