COUNTY — nominations for Outstanding Individual Philanthropist, Outstanding Corporate Philanthropist, Volunteer Fundraisier of the Year and Unsung Hero are due July 31 for recognition on National Philanthropy Day on Nov. 18.The Association of Fundraising Professionals Indian River Chapter is hosting its fourth annual awards ceremony honoring individuals and businesses who have made significant contributions to philanthropy in Indian River County. The event will be held at the Vero Beach Museum of Art. The nomination process is open to AFP members and nonmembers. All nonprofit agencies are encouraged to participate. Organizations are asked to submit the name and category of nominees as soon as possible to Mary-Ruth Foley via email at foley@McKeeGarden.org or by phone at (772) 794-0601, ext. 102. Once the nominee’s name is submitted, a mentor from the AFP is available to the nominating organization to assist in guiding the nonprofit through the application process. Application forms are available by contacting Ms. Foley. Organizations have until July 31, to submit their completed application packet. Last year’s award recipients included: Outstanding Individual Philanthropist- Bob and Sandy Brackett; Outstanding Corporate Philanthropist- Proctor Construction; Volunteer Fundraisers of the Year- Rick and Laura McDermott; and Unsung Hero- Carter Hopkins.”National Philanthropy Day celebrates the contributions of outstanding donors, volunteers and businesses exemplifying selfless dedication, community spirit and lasting impact,” said Robyn Orzel, Director of Development for the Vero Beach Museum of Art and Chairperson of NPD. “It’s an excellent way for nonprofits to celebrate the tireless efforts of their volunteers and fundraisers.”
AFP is still seeing sponsors at various leves to support the Awards Ceremony. Sponsors are be recognized on the event invitations, the program and other printed materials. The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) represents 30,000 development professionals in more than 200 chapters throughout the world, working to advance philanthropy through advocacy, research, education, and certification programs. The AFP Indian River Chapter was formed in March of 2006 and currently represents over 60 members, fosters development and growth of fundraising professionals and promotes high ethical standards in the fundraising profession.Information: Contact AFP Indian River Chapter President Ginny Blossom (772) 794-0701 or e-mail ginny@irlt.org.