National Philanthropy Day

Save the date for National Philanthropy Day 2026, taking place Thursday, November 5, 2026, at the Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma! Each year, we celebrate the profound charitable work of Tulsans who are making a difference and creating impact in our community. Proceeds from NPD directly support AFP Eastern Oklahoma's mission empowering individuals and organizations to practice ethical fundraising through professional education, networking, research, and advocacy.

Awards

Nominations for 2026 awards are open now through 11:59 PM Central on Wednesday, July 15! In order to submit a nomination, you will need:

  1. nominee contact information (email and phone)
  2. a nomination statement (between 1500 and 300 characters in length)
  3. a letter of recommendation in support of the nominee (written by someone other than the nominator)

Submit your nomination here.

Learn more about the different categories below, and view past winners. If you have questions about award nominations, contact President Clifton Baker at clifton@thegriefcenter.org.

Award for Outstanding Corporate Philanthropist

This award honors a for-profit corporation that has made contributions of funds and/or resources to one or more nonprofit organizations in the Tulsa region.

Award for Outstanding Foundation Philanthropist

This award honors a grantmaking foundation that has made contributions of funds to one or more nonprofit organizations in the Tulsa region.

Award for Outstanding Individual Philanthropist

This award honors an individual or family who has made contributions of funds and/or resources to one or more nonprofit organizations in the Tulsa region.

Award for Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser

This award honors a volunteer who has raised funds and/or resources on behalf of one or more nonprofit organizations in the Tulsa region.

Award for Outstanding Professional Fundraiser

This award honors a professional fundraiser who has raised funds and/or resources on behalf of one or more nonprofit organizations in the Tulsa region.

Award for Outstanding Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access in Philanthropy

This award honors individuals and organizations that have made a significant impact on inclusion, diversity, equity, and access in the Tulsa region by way of philanthropy.

Sponsorships

Are you or your organization interested in sponsoring National Philanthropy Day 2026? Contact Clifton Baker at clifton@thegriefcenter.org.

Thank you to our 2025 Sponsors!

Presenting Partner

Hardesty Family Foundation

Supporting Partner

Anonymous

Community Partner

Tulsa Area United Way

Congratulations to our 2025 award winners!

Outstanding Individual Philanthropist
Leslie Pritchard

Outstanding Corporate Philanthropist
Bill Knight Automotive Group

Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser
Stephania Grober, Pierce Norton and Emeka Nnaka
2024 Tulsa Area United Way Centennial Fundraising Tri-Chairs

Outstanding Fundraising Professional
Megan Nesbit
President & CEO, Philbrook Museum of Art

Outstanding Foundation Philanthropist
Hardesty Family Foundation