On Wednesday, November 12, 2025, The Association of Fundraising Professionals of Northwest Ohio (AFP NWO) will celebrate its 38th Annual National Philanthropy Day. In their longstanding partnership with AFP NWO, Greater Toledo Community Foundation will continue as the presenting sponsor for the event, bringing their support and collaboration.
Each year, AFP NWO honors those who, through their hard work and dedication, have advanced philanthropy, enhanced our community and have created positive change. Similarly, the Community Foundation has hosted the Nonprofit Excellence Awards to recognize the worthwhile efforts and projects local philanthropic causes have made within the Toledo region. In a spirit of shared purpose and collective impact, AFP NWO is honored to integrate the Excellence Awards into their chapter’s celebration of philanthropy. This transition unites efforts to recognize the power of giving, deepen community engagement, and elevate the legacy of philanthropy.
“By combining the Nonprofit Excellence Awards with National Philanthropy Day, we're creating a celebration that elevates recognition of the entire philanthropic community and nonprofit sector,” said Kate Sommerfeld, president and CEO of Greater Toledo Community Foundation. “This collaboration with AFP Northwest Ohio exemplifies our shared commitment to maximizing resources and efficiency, ultimately benefiting the organizations and donors who make such meaningful impacts across our region.”
Abbey Hall, AFP NWO Chapter President, echoes Sommerfeld’s excitement. “AFP Northwest Ohio is excited to combine forces with the Greater Toledo Community Foundation for this year’s National Philanthropy Day. We look forward to celebrating our amazing donors and fundraisers together at one amazing event where our philanthropic community can come together.”
This year’s event will continue the tradition of honoring philanthropy through 8 signature awards, while integrating two new categories, presented by the Community Foundation, to recognize the critical work nonprofits do to strengthen our community:
- Outstanding Corporate Philanthropist
- Outstanding Foundation
- Outstanding Fundraising Professional
- Outstanding Philanthropists
- Outstanding Volunteer Fundraisers
- Outstanding Media Outlet or Best Nonprofit Media Coverage
- Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy (Ages 5-17)
- Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy (Ages 18-23)
- Volunteer Recognition Awards
- Nonprofit of the Year (Small), presented by the Community Foundation
- Nonprofit of the Year (Large), presented by the Community Foundation
Both winners in the Nonprofit of the Year category will receive an unrestricted grant of $6,500.00.
Nominations are accepted now through 5:00 pm on Friday, June 13. To submit a nomination, please click here.
Sponsorship opportunities, tables and individual tickets will be available June 1, 2025.