Press Release for 2020 National Philanthropy Day
The Big Bend Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) is proud to announce the awardees of the 2020 National Philanthropy Day® Awards. These awards were created to recognize the best in philanthropy in our community and are part of an international day celebrating philanthropy. The Big Bend Chapter of AFP will honor the following awardees at the National Philanthropy Day® virtual event on
November 19th, 2020 at 3:30 PM ET. Register online at
National Philanthropy Day.
Local philanthropists to be honored
Gayla Parks will be honored as the 2020
Philanthropists of the Year. This prestigious award is given annually to a member of the community who has shown exceptional commitment to personal philanthropy by direct gifts and leadership to area non-profits.
Abby Walton with WCTV, will be honored as the
Outstanding Media Outlet or Personality of the Year. This award is given annually to a member of the media or marketing community who has shown an overwhelming support of non-profits. Ms. Walton has demonstrated personal commitment through her leadership as well as supporting many non-profits in their efforts to engage and connect with the community.
Red Eye Coffee will be recognized with the
Outstanding Community Organization or Business of the Year Award for its broad-reaching support of our community and many non-profits through contributions to local events, and by opening their doors to foster and enhance philanthropy.
Rick Kearney will be honored with a special recognition award,
COVID-19 Hero. This award is presented to an individual, family, or group whose philanthropic contributions are unique and impactful. Mr. Kearney went above and beyond with innovative support nonprofit agencies through this global pandemic.
Sherrill Ragans will be honored with the
Lifetime Achievement in Philanthropy. This award recognizes an individual who serves as a role model for philanthropy through his or her history of sustained volunteerism and financial giving. Mrs. Ragans is also active in passing along the value of philanthropy to future generations.
Finally,
Holly Bernardo will be awarded the
Outstanding Fundraising Professional of the Year award for her leadership and mentoring in the fundraising. Ms. Bernardo demonstrates fundraising expertise, professionalism and dedication in her role as the Director of Development at CESC, Inc.
These awards, as well as individual
Heart of Gold Awards, will be presented as part of National Philanthropy Day on Thursday, November 19. To reserve a table, purchase individual tickets, or recognize a loyal donor or volunteer with a Heart of Gold sponsorship, please scroll down for submission forms and details.
The Big Bend Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals enhances philanthropy and volunteerism, fosters development and growth of fundraising professionals and promotes high ethical standards in the fundraising community.
National Philanthropy Day
National Philanthropy Day®(NPD) is a special day set aside each November. The purpose of this day is to recognize the great contributions of philanthropy—and those people active in the philanthropic community—to the enrichment of our world.
NPD was originally conceived of and organized by Douglas Freeman in the 1980s, and the first official events held in 1986 after President Reagan signed the official NPD proclamation. The day provides an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of giving and all that it has made possible. NPD celebrates the endless daily contributions individuals and organizations across the world make to countless causes and missions.
Contact information: Colette Podgorski
Association of Fundraising Professionals Big Bend Chapter
Director of Development, FSU Foundation
(850) 850-228-8536
cpodgorski@foundation.fsu.edu
A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: