National Philanthropy Day
NOMINATION GUIDELINES
National Philanthropy Day® (NPD) is a special time set aside to recognize the great contributions of philanthropy – and those people active in the philanthropic community – to the enrichment of our world. This celebration provides an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of giving and all that it has made possible.
NPD Philanthropy Awards Celebration Luncheon features awards that recognize outstanding achievements by individuals, foundations and corporate philanthropists on the Treasure Coast. All nominees will be recognized and celebrated during the event when award recipients are announced.
What are the award categories?
Luminary Award
Honoring an individual who embodies the spirit of philanthropy through exceptional generosity and commitment to charitable causes.
- Narrative (Up to 300 words): Describe evidence of direct gift support and the impact of that support on your organization and the Treasure Coast community. Please focus on their philanthropic activities, community impact, leadership efforts and innovative ideas.
- Please provide a 50 to 75 word description to use in event program and marketing materials.
- Please include a photo (.jpg) of nominee or group with your email application.
Corporate Philanthropy Award
Recognizing a corporate business that has demonstrated outstanding commitment to corporate social responsibility and philanthropy through financial contributions, volunteerism, and community engagement.
- Narrative (Up to 300 words): Describe their corporate philanthropic programs and initiatives. What impact and outcomes have the corporation’s philanthropy made for the community? How does the corporation engage its employees in philanthropic activities?
- Please provide a 50 to 75 word description to use in event program and marketing materials.
- Please include a photo (.jpg) of nominee or group with your email application.
Small Biz, Big Heart Award
Celebrates a small business that showcases extraordinary generosity and community spirit through its philanthropic initiatives. (50 employees or under)
- Narrative (Up to 300 words): Describe the small business positive impact to the community. How does the small business demonstrate care and support for the community? How does the business engage with the community?
- Please provide a 50 to 75 word description to use in event program and marketing materials.
- Please include a photo (.jpg) of nominee or group with your email application.
Legacy Award
Recognizing individuals, living or deceased, that have shown years of dedication and commitment to an organization, catalyzing great community impact through philanthropy, volunteer leadership, or advocacy.
- Narrative (Up to 300 words): Describe the nominee’s most significant contributions, lifetime achievements and enduring influence.
- Please provide a 50 to 75 word description to use in event program and marketing materials.
- Please include a photo (.jpg) of nominee or group with your email application.
Community Impact Award
Recognizing a group, club or community committed to philanthropy, volunteerism, or advocacy, that enhances the mission of charitable causes.
- Narrative (Up to 300 words): Describe the mission and goals of the group. What are their key projects and initiatives? What impact have they had on the community? Include success stories and statistics.
- Please provide a 50 to 75 word description to use in event program and marketing materials.
- Please include a photo (.jpg) of nominee or group with your email application.
Rising Star (Youth) Award
Celebrates passionate young changemakers whose volunteerism, advocacy, and initiative are driving meaningful impact in the community and inspiring a brighter future.
- Narrative (Up to 300 words): Describe the nominee’s key philanthropic achievements to date and what makes you see them as a natural community leader? What sets them apart? Provide specific examples of unique solutions or projects they have initiated or contributed to.
- Please provide a 50 to 75 word description to use in event program and marketing materials.
- Please include a photo (.jpg) of nominee or group with your email application.
Hidden Gem Award
- Narrative (Up to 300 words): Describe the nominee’s specific contributions and actions of the nominee that have made a significant community impact, as well as their continued support of the organization?
- Please provide a 50 to 75 word description to use in event program and marketing materials.
- Please include a photo (.jpg) of nominee or group with your email application.
Please take this time to reflect on the outstanding hometown heroes helping your organization and our community, and consider celebrating them with us on National Philanthropy Day.
The nomination deadline is August 31, 2026
This is the time to celebrate and honor
heroes in our community – our home.
National Philanthropy Day Celebration Luncheon
Questions about your nomination?
Contact the Chapter Administrator
What is National Philanthropy Day?
National Philanthropy Day (NPD), celebrated each year as a day to recognize and honor the impact of philanthropy and those who work to make a difference in their communities and around the world. It’s a time to celebrate the countless ways individuals, nonprofits, businesses, and communities come together to create lasting change through generosity.
NPD was founded in the 1980s by philanthropist and fundraising professional Douglas Freeman, with the first official celebration taking place in 1986, following a proclamation signed by President Ronald Reagan. More than just a celebration, National Philanthropy Day is an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of giving—and to acknowledge the vital role that philanthropy plays in improving lives and strengthening communities every day.
When is National Philanthropy Day?
The Treasure Coast Chapter will celebrate National Philanthropy Day on Friday, November 13, 2026.
Who is eligible for a National Philanthropy Day award?
All Treasure Coast Florida nonprofits, corporations, foundations, and civic and service organizations are encouraged to nominate their donors, community partners, board members and other volunteers for an award appropriate to their role.
Nominees who have not been recognized in the prior five years are eligible.
Who can submit an application for a National Philanthropy Day award?
An individual, a public or private organization, a civic or service group, or an AFP member may submit a nomination for any award. Each nominating organization is limited to two nominations.
When are applications due?
Applications must be submitted through the nominations link on our website no later than August 31, 2026.
How do I submit an application?
Cast your nomination HERE!
How are honorees chosen?
A limited number of nominations will be recognized at the Awards Luncheon. The first five eligible nominations in each category will be selected.
How will I be notified if my honoree will be recognized?
Acceptance of your application will be acknowledged via email.
What if I have a question?
Questions about eligibility of a nominee whould be directed to Shannon Glendinning (shannon@hsslc.org).
