National Philanthropy Day celebrates giving in Atlanta

By Jamie Tobias, gift planning officer, Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta

On November 9, the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) celebrated their 34th annual National Philanthropy Day, Georgia’s oldest and largest celebration of giving. A sell-out crowd of more than 1,000 people gathered to shine a light on the power of philanthropy in our region. The Community Foundation is proud to be the title sponsor of the event.

This year’s National Philanthropy Day honored four people who exemplify the impact that individuals and families can have on nonprofit organizations. Doug and Lila Hertz were named Philanthropists of the Year for their decades-long commitment to helping those in need. They were nominated by Susan G. Komen Atlanta, Camp Twin Lakes and Woodruff Arts Center, three nonprofits vital to our city that have benefitted from their good work. The Community Foundation is grateful to Lila Hertz’ 25-year leadership of Jeffrey Fashion Cares, which in its history has raised more than $3.5 million to support our Atlanta AIDS Fund in addition to providing support to Susan G. Komen Atlanta.

Dr. Sivan Hines was recognized as Volunteer Fundraiser of the Year. She was nominated by the Atlanta Youth Academy and Girls, Inc. for her dedicated work on behalf of youth opportunity. Sivan is a Board member, advisor and dedicated donor with the Community Foundation.

©2017 Decisive Moment Event Photojournalism, Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta, National Philanthropy Day Awards

Joey Odom was named Philanthropic Leader of Tomorrow. He was nominated by Covenant House of Georgia and spoke from his heart about the impact that Covenant House has made on youth at risk in our community.

I was honored to serve as President of AFP’s Greater Atlanta Chapter this year. Involvement in AFP has been an asset to my career by providing continuing education and professional development opportunities that have informed my day-to-day work as a fundraiser.

In this season of giving, we can be thankful for the generosity of donors and the hard work of non-profits and all they do to make the world a better place. It is a great reminder that we should all strive to maintain and sustain a level of gratitude and continue to give back all through the year.

In this season of giving, let’s all be thankful for those who are dedicated to lifting up those who need it most. And let’s maintain an attitude of gratitude to give back in whatever ways we can.