National Philanthropy Day or NPD was conceived and organized by Douglas Freeman in the 1980s and the first official event was held in 1986 after President Ronald Reagan signed the official National Philanthropy Day 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. 

Last year, more than 130 AFP Chapters held NPD events and activities across North America. AFP plays a key role in encouraging giving and volunteering through its National Philanthropy Day activities. 

AFP exists to help people change the world. Not just fundraisers, but also donors, volunteers, corporations, foundations, and all others involved in the philanthropic process. By bringing people together, raising awareness of causes, and developing best practices and standards, we work as one community to ensure donors see their dreams come to fruition. We help them create the impact that will change the world.