Advancing Philanthropy.
When it comes to giving back, Southwest Airlines stands firm. We champion the causes that matter most in the lives of the communities we serve. In order to do that, we look at our communities on an individual basis. In San Diego, we support a variety of organizations that focus on education, diversity, leadership, business, human rights and civic engagement. We work with each of those organizations to ensure that our support enables them to accomplish their goals and reach their mission to better serve the San Diego community.
Supporting the efforts of The Association of Fundraising Professionals, San Diego Chapter has not only allowed us to learn about many outstanding organizations and individuals, but also given us the opportunity to celebrate their impact in our region. I invite you to get to know them and support them!
AFP San Diego –Â Advancing Philanthropy
The Association of Fundraising Professionals, San Diego Chapter (AFP San Diego) is a group of more than 300 members who are committed to connecting San Diego’s generous community members with the charities that touch their hearts through gifts of time, talent and treasure. Founded in 1960, the Association of Fundraising Professionals, 31,000 members strong across 260 chapters worldwide, has more than a half-century of sustained excellence in fundraising leadership and professionalism.
San Diego is home to thousands of nonprofit organizations playing a major role in our region. AFP San Diego supports this by enabling individuals and organizations to practice effective, ethical fundraising, relying on a robust foundation of high standards, donor accountability and a commitment to the community we call home. Its activities include education and training, providing resources, networking, mentoring, advocacy and recognition.
Celebrating Passionate Excellence
Each year, AFPSD hosts its National Philanthropy Day celebration. Approximately 1,000 nonprofit leaders, community philanthropists and devoted volunteers will come together Tuesday, October 28, at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront. This much-anticipated gathering is held thanks in no small part to the steadfast partnership of Southwest Airlines whose own commitment to community is a shining example of corporate compassion. Whether through financial support, in-kind giving or networking, Southwest Airlines has been integral to the ongoing success of National Philanthropy Day in San Diego.
Not only does this event celebrate the difference philanthropy makes in the lives of people every day, but the funds raised by the event provide additional professional development and educational opportunities for AFPSD members. The luncheon also recognizes individuals and organizations from San Diego who demonstrate an exceptional commitment to giving back through volunteerism, philanthropy and professionalism.
The 2014 AFP San Diego National Philanthropy Day honorees are:
- Outstanding Philanthropist: Evelyn & Ernest Rady
- Outstanding Fundraising Volunteer: Lori M. Walton
- Outstanding Philanthropic Corporation: Cymer, LLC
- Outstanding Philanthropic Organization: Barney & Barney Foundation
- Outstanding Organization Volunteer: Dr. Elizabeth Jones
- Outstanding Development Professional: Kristin Bertell, MA, CFRE
- Outstanding Celebrity Volunteer: Sam “The Cooking Guy” Zien
- Outstanding Youth/Student Volunteer: Daisy Aguilar & Rosa Olascoaga
Fountain of Youth: Honoring Youth/Student Volunteers
Two very special young women will be honored at this year’s National Philanthropy Day luncheon: Daisy Aguilar and Rosa Olascoaga.
Daisy Aguilar was nominated by the Boys & Girls Clubs of San Dieguito. Ms. Aguilar’s passion for volunteerism started when she first joined the Boys & Girls Club at age 9. Her tireless commitment to the Boys & Girls Club Teen Mentoring Program in her community has seen the program grow by leaps and bounds — it now has more than 50 members.
Rosa Olascoaga was nominated by Reality Changers, a group that helps youth from disadvantaged backgrounds prepare to become first-generation college students. She is a four-year member of Reality Changers — currently majoring in Political Science — and as an ambassador for Reality Changers she has helped pave the way to college for many others. She also serves Mid-City CAN Youth Council, a local neighborhood leadership program that focuses on improving her neighborhood through policy changes and community activism.
For more information about AFP San Diego and National Philanthropy Day, please visit www.NPD2014.org.