OVERVIEW
Globally, National Philanthropy Day is celebrated annually on November 15. This day signifies the importance of working together for the common good. Philanthropic deeds come in all different shapes and sizes - charitable giving, volunteering, etc. - and on National Philanthropy Day, no act of kindness goes unnoticed. 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. For more than 30 years, hundreds of communities across North America have come together to recognize the countless ways philanthropy has affected our world. Officially recognized each year on November 15, National Philanthropy Day® is celebrated by numerous fundraising professionals, government leaders, foundations, businesses, individual donors and others who wish to honor all the contributions philanthropy has made. NPD provides an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of giving and all that it has accomplished, as well as what there still is to do.
Locally, we are excited to celebrate the outstanding leaders in philanthropy with an Awards Reception on Thursday, November 12, 2026. You can help us honor those who gift their time, expertise and resources to the quality of life in our communities by nominating someone for a National Philanthropy Day Award. Visit our Awards Page.