National Philanthropy Day Nominations
Each year, the National Philanthropy Day Awards Program (NPD), hosted by the Association of Fundraising Professionals California Valley Chapter, recognizes outstanding achievement by individuals, corporations, foundations, fundraising volunteers, and fundraising professionals whose work creates a significant impact on the quality of life in the Central Valley.
The submission period is now open and will close on August 7, 2025. The judging process takes place in September, and all submitters will be contacted by phone or email in early October. The luncheon event to recognize honorees takes place on a Thursday in early November. We can’t wait to see and celebrate with you!
Individuals and organizations (nonprofit and for-profit) are invited to submit entries in the categories provided.
We encourage you to submit a nominee in as many categories as appropriate; however, each organization may submit only one honoree per category.
Before making a submission, please obtain permission from the honoree to do so.
Please read through the Guidelines and award categories before submitting a nomination.
Submission Guidelines:
1. Nominations for any award may be submitted by an individual AFP member, an AFP chapter or non-member individual or organization.
2. Past winners prior to 2015 are eligible for nomination.
3. The deadline for nominations for National Philanthropy Day is FRIDAY, AUGUST 7th, 2026, by 5:00 pm. Late entries will not be accepted.
4. All nominations MUST be submitted via the AFP CA Valley Website form.
5. All nominations MUST address the criteria set out for each award. (See Nomination Categories document)
6. Nominations will be judged solely on the responses to the criteria. Supporting documents (letters, newspaper, articles, etc.) may be included.
7. Incomplete nominations or nominations that do not address all of the criteria will not be considered.
8. There is an organizational limit of one nomination per category.
Elements of a Strong Submission:
• Honoree clearly meets award category requirements in which they have been submitted. (Page 2)
• Describe how this person/organization has made a difference in the community. Cite tangible and quantifiable examples of the nominee’s impact to the community.
• Discuss evidence of dedication, innovation, creativity and vision; include how nominee inspires and motivates others to act charitably. Generate excitement and enthusiasm for your nominee.
• Focus on ongoing activities and overall efforts.
• Research what your honoree is doing with other groups; encourage other groups to also submit a nomination for your honoree.
• Submit your nomination as though the judging panel does not know your nominee – they may not! Be as specific and detailed as possible.