The Blade: Philanthropy Day recognizes community leaders

TOLEDO, Ohio — It’s a nice time to gather with family and friends and of course, feast on a tasty meal. But it is more than just a day of feasting, it’s about counting one’s blessings and being thankful for what one has. Health, family, friends, a nice home, the blessings are endless. I know I have a lot for which to be thankful.

ONE organization in particular takes this time of year to recognize companies and individuals who give of their time, talent, and treasures because the impact of philanthropy on the community is vital.

The Association of Fundraising Professionals of Northwest Ohio (AFP NWO) hosted its 37th annual National Philanthropy Day, presented by the Greater Toledo Community Foundation on Nov. 13 at The Premier Banquet Hall.

“Each year, AFP NWO honors those who, through their hard work and dedication, have advanced philanthropy, enhanced our community and have created positive change,” according to the organization.

It was the biggest crowd yet of community philanthropists who gathered to celebrate this year’s honorees. Nearly 500 guests started arriving at 11:30 a.m. so they could mingle and network before the noon to 1:30 p.m. program. Everybody seemed to be there, representing organizations across northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan and individual philanthropists, too, including past honorees.

Chapter president Mary Isabell-Kinsman welcomed everyone. Kate Sommerfeld, Greater Toledo Community Foundation President and CEO, acknowledged everyone’s generosity.

After a tasty lunch, awards were presented as emcee Kalie Marantette of WTOL-TV, Channel 11 led the show.

This year’s award winners are: Outstanding Corporate Philanthropist - Ohio Logistics; Outstanding Foundation - John Henry Eldred Jr. Foundation; Outstanding Fund-raising Professional - Shannon Bova; Outstanding Philanthropists - Susan and Thomas Palmer; Outstanding Volunteer Fund-raisers - Sally Binard and Tony Rasczyk; Outstanding Media Outlet or Best Non-profit Media Coverage - Cumulus Media Toledo; Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy (Ages 5-17) - Olivia Edgell; and Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy (Ages 18-23) - Avalon Ayres.

Honorees received certificates and awards that were handcrafted by individuals at Unruly Arts, a studio that provides a nurturing, inclusive, and joyful environment in supporting artistic visions and needs of people with disabilities.

There were also dozens of other individuals who were recognized by non-profit organizations across northwest Ohio with Volunteer Recognition Awards.

“The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) represents 26,000 members in more than 240 chapters throughout the world, working to advance philanthropy through advocacy, research, education, and certification programs.” It fosters the development and growth of fund-raising professionals and promotes high ethical standards in the fund-raising profession. The AFP Northwest Ohio Chapter, established in 1987, has over 120 members from 79 non-profits and nine consulting firms in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan. For information visit community.afpglobal.org/afpnwo/home.

Thanks go to top sponsors including the Greater Toledo Community Foundation, the Toledo Museum of Art, Bowling Green State University Foundation, Inc., Buckeye Broadband, ProMedica Foundation, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northwest Ohio, The Andersons, Inc., and The University of Toledo Foundation.

And nearly 20 other sponsors including Blue Force Mobile Training Team, Friends of the Toledo Lucas County Public Library, Maumee Valley Habitat for Humanity, Metroparks Toledo Foundation, The University of Toledo Foundation, Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts, Toledo Zoo & Aquarium, University of Findlay Advancement, and United Way of Greater Toledo.

Perhaps this day inspired others to get involved in our community in some way. After all, anyone who gives of time or treasures, knows that it is much more rewarding than receiving and volunteering connects you with a wealth of new friends.