National Philanthropy Day Awards: Nominations Open in Des Moines

Nominations are now being accepted for the Central Iowa Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ 41st annual National Philanthropy Day Awards Luncheon, recognizing individuals, corporations, volunteers, and youth demonstrating exceptional commitment to philanthropic efforts in the region. The awards, which will be presented November 20th at the Des Moines Marriott Downtown, highlight contributions to the Central Iowa community. The nomination window closes April 17th at 11:59 p.m.

Recognizing Central Iowa’s Philanthropic Leaders

The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) – Central Iowa Chapter, has opened the call for nominations, seeking to honor those making a significant impact through charitable giving and service. Four categories will be awarded: Outstanding Corporate Philanthropy, Outstanding Individual Philanthropist, Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser, and Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy. The annual luncheon serves as a key event for the Central Iowa philanthropic community, acknowledging dedication to nonprofit organizations and the broader social solid.

Interested parties can submit nominations through an online form available here. The nomination process is designed to be accessible, allowing community members to easily recognize the contributions of those around them.

The AFP and the Landscape of Philanthropy

The Association of Fundraising Professionals represents professionals working in and supporting the philanthropic sector. Founded in 1967, the AFP boasts over 30,000 members in more than 230 chapters throughout the world, including the Central Iowa chapter. The organization provides training, resources, and advocacy to advance ethical fundraising practices and increase philanthropic support for nonprofits. AFP’s website details its mission and global reach.

Philanthropy in the United States is a substantial economic force. According to Giving USA 2023, Americans gave an estimated $490.23 billion to nonprofits in 2022. This figure represents a 3.4% decrease from 2021, adjusted for inflation, but remains significantly above pre-pandemic levels. The sector employs over 12 million people, representing approximately 4.8% of the total U.S. Workforce. The impact extends beyond direct employment, stimulating economic activity through grantmaking and program spending.

Central Iowa’s Nonprofit Ecosystem

Central Iowa benefits from a robust network of nonprofit organizations addressing a wide range of community needs. Organizations like the Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC) provide food and emergency assistance, while the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines facilitates charitable giving and community development initiatives. The presence of major employers, such as Wells Fargo and Principal Financial Group, also contributes to the philanthropic landscape through corporate giving programs and employee volunteerism.

The Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, for example, manages assets exceeding $600 million and distributed over $65 million in grants in 2022. Their annual report provides a detailed overview of their impact and financial performance. These organizations rely heavily on both individual donations and corporate sponsorships to fulfill their missions.

What to Consider in a Nomination

When considering a nomination, the AFP Central Iowa Chapter encourages focusing on demonstrable impact. For the Outstanding Corporate Philanthropy award, nominators should highlight the company’s commitment to charitable giving, employee volunteer programs, and community involvement. For the Outstanding Individual Philanthropist award, the focus should be on the individual’s financial contributions, leadership in philanthropic endeavors, and dedication to specific causes.

The Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser award recognizes individuals who dedicate their time and energy to raising funds for nonprofit organizations. Nominations should detail the volunteer’s fundraising efforts, leadership skills, and impact on the organization’s ability to achieve its goals. Finally, the Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy award celebrates young people who demonstrate a commitment to service and charitable giving. This category seeks to inspire the next generation of philanthropists.

Looking Ahead: The November Luncheon and Beyond

The National Philanthropy Day Awards Luncheon on November 20th will not only recognize the award recipients but also serve as a networking opportunity for professionals and volunteers in the philanthropic sector. The event typically draws several hundred attendees, fostering collaboration and raising awareness of the importance of charitable giving.

Following the luncheon, the AFP Central Iowa Chapter will continue its work to promote philanthropy throughout the year, offering training programs, networking events, and advocacy initiatives. The chapter also plays a vital role in connecting donors with nonprofit organizations, facilitating impactful giving and strengthening the Central Iowa community. The ongoing success of these efforts relies on continued community engagement and a shared commitment to supporting the region’s nonprofit sector.