INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — The Association of Fundraising Professionals Indian River Chapter (AFPIR) is pleased to announce the recipients of this year’s National Philanthropy Day awards.
An award presentation will take place Tuesday, Nov. 18, at Riverside Theatre, 3250 Riverside Park Drive, at 5:30 p.m., followed by light hors d’oeuvres and cocktails.
The local celebration honors Indian River County individuals and corporations in five specific categories: Outstanding Individual Philanthropist, Outstanding Corporate Philanthropist, Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser, Unsung Hero, and Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy.
This year’s guest Master of Ceremonies is Bob Carter, President and CEO of Bob Carter Companies and the current Chair of the International Board of Directors of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. Carter is known worldwide for his expertise in helping philanthropists and nonprofit organizations build dynamic teams to create transformational change.
The presentation is the culmination of many months of the application and selection process, which included a kick-off workshop for the nonprofits in June, and mentor-mentee relationships between AFPIR members and the nominating organizations to help ensure the submission of strong applications which showcase the varied philanthropic efforts of the nominees. Judging was conducted again this year by the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Southwest Florida Chapter.
This year’s award recipients are:
Outstanding Individual Philanthropist: Robert Bowman, nominated by SunUp ARC.
Since moving to Vero Beach in 1980, Bowman has proven himself to be an outstanding philanthropist. His many philanthropic endeavors include: SunUp ARC, VNA, Dogs For Life, Riverside Theatre, Hospice House, and John’s Island Foundation. “If you can afford to give and are lucky enough to be able to do so, you should. I don’t understand why everyone doesn’t make charitable gifts,” he says. Bowman’s generosity has made a significant impact in the lives of those living in Indian River County. “It’s an honor and a responsibility to give back to those in our wonderful community. It just plain makes me feel good!”
Outstanding Corporate Philanthropist: Girard Equipment, Inc., nominated by Indian River Habitat for Humanity.
Girard leads his company’s mission to impact his community by his selfless devotion and keen ability to recognize needs and solve problems. In the past, Girard has stated “Indian River County has given me so much. I am blessed and honored to be able to help make a difference in the lives of its residents.” Girard and his company, Girard Equipment, Inc. has impacted the lives of Indian River County nonprofits, the people they serve, and Girard Equipment employees by setting an example as a role model and mentor. They motivate everyone to better themselves and their community.
Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser: William F. Glavin, nominated by Gifford Youth Activity Center.
Glavin is known for his divine commitment to make a difference in the lives of others and the ability to lead others to accomplish great fundraising goals for not-for-profit organizations. His actions exemplify the true essence of the disciplines and criteria spelled out in the AFP nomination process. He has shown throughout his time of volunteer involvement with agencies in Indian River County that his diplomatic technique to encourage others to take philanthropic leadership roles does work.
Unsung Hero: Ross Cotherman, nominated by Boys & Girls Clubs of Indian River County.
Cotherman is a dedicated volunteer and advocate for the less fortunate in our community. He has served in leadership roles on numerous boards of directors and was instrumental in the development and growth of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Indian River County. Prior to his 14 years with the Clubs, Cotherman was a past President and Campaign Chair for the United Way, founding member of Childcare Resources, and treasurer for the Special Olympics, just to name a few. His commitment to each organization he has served has changed the lives of thousands of children in our community. Never one to seek recognition, Cotherman is truly an Unsung Hero.
Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy: Brian Barnett, nominated by Quail Valley Charities.
Barnett has chosen to dedicate a good portion of his young life to being of service to others. He enthusiastically and without need for recognition gives of his time and talents to support and to raise funds for organizations that help children and those less fortunate than himself. He volunteers, not waiting to be asked, generously giving with dedication and follow through. All who work with Brian, classmates and adults, attest that Brian is a philanthropic young man of leadership and character.
Additional honorees being recognized for their contributions include: Pauline Adams of I’ll Never Tell; Melvin Baker, IV; Jo Ann Becker; Dr. Gary and Deb Freed; David and Barbara Hefflebower; Sheriff Deryl Loar; Dr. Robert Rappell, D.O., J.D.; Ken Roberts; Bob Schlitt, Jr.; Bob and Carmen Stork; and Jack and Carolyn Veeneman.
NPD Sponsors are Youth in Philanthropy Sponsor: Bob Carter Companies; Event Sponsors: Bank of America, Indian River Community Foundation, Leigh Jewelers, Publix Supermarket Charities, and Wells Fargo. Corporate Sponsors are CenterState Bank, Coyle Consulting Co., Florida Power & Light, John’s Island Foundation, Inc., Kmetz, Nuttall, Elwell, Graham, CPAs, Marine Bank & Trust Company, Rehmann, and Rossway Swan Tierney Barry. In-Kind Sponsors are Frabel Studio, and Martina’s Photography and Josh Malyn Videography & Post. Media Sponsors are Press Journal/TC Palm and The Breeze 93.7 FM. Venue Sponsor is Riverside Theatre.
Tickets to the celebration are $35 per person and reservations are required in advance. Monies raised from the event are reinvested locally in AFPIR, supporting the profession of fundraising through chapter membership scholarships for new and current members to attend professional development workshops.
For more information, visit the AFPIR website at afpindianriver.afpnet.org or contact NPD Committee Co-Chairs Katie Kowanic at (772)-567-8969 or Shannon Bowman at (772)-567-3202.