2026

Nominations are now open for The Power of Giving: Philanthropy Awards! Choose from the categories listed below and submit your nominations by February 27, 2026.

Click here to submit your nomination

The Joan Gambeski Award for Outstanding Professional Fundraiser

This prestigious award honors a professional fundraiser who exemplifies the highest standards of ethics, leadership, and commitment in the fundraising profession. The recipient should bring honor, distinction, and dedication to their work, serving as a role model within the nonprofit community.

Nominee criteria:

• Must have at least 10 years of professional fundraising experience

• Must be currently active in the fundraising field

• Demonstrates exceptional leadership, integrity, and commitment to ethical fundraising practices

• Champions philanthropy through collaboration, mentorship, and impactful results

This award recognizes those who represent the ideals and professional standards set by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP).

Outstanding Emerging Fundraising Professional Award

This award celebrates a new and promising fundraising professional or organization making significant strides early in their career. The recipient demonstrates creativity, innovation, and a deep understanding of philanthropy, showing great potential for long-term impact in the sector.

Nominee criteria:

• Up to 5 years of fundraising experience (individuals or organizations new to the field)

• Demonstrates ingenuity, resourcefulness, and leadership potential

• Shows a commitment to ethical fundraising and best practices

• Has made a measurable contribution to fundraising success within their organization or the broader community

Outstanding Fundraising Volunteer Award

This award recognizes an individual or volunteer group whose leadership, dedication, and hard work have significantly advanced the success of fundraising efforts in their community or organization.

Nominee criteria:

• Must be a volunteer, not a paid staff member

• Demonstrates exceptional leadership in coordinating or inspiring other volunteers

• Has made a substantial impact on major fundraising projects or campaigns through personal time, effort, and advocacy

• Embodies a spirit of philanthropy and service

Leadership in Corporate Philanthropy Award

This award honors a corporation or business that has fostered a culture of philanthropy and community engagement at all levels of its organization. It recognizes companies that lead by example, encouraging both financial contributions and employee involvement in charitable activities.

Nominee criteria:

• Demonstrates an outstanding commitment to philanthropy, including:

1. Significant financial support of one or more nonprofit organizations

2. Leadership involvement in nonprofit causes (such as board service or sponsorship of initiatives)

3. Volunteer participation and engagement of employees in charitable work

• Represents the work of the entire company or corporate culture—not just an individual leader

• Serves as a role model for other businesses in the community