2026 National Philanthropy Day Nominations

National Philanthropy Day Award
Categories and Criteria

CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT A NOMINATION

NOMINATIONS DUE AUGUST 7TH, 2026

The AFP Tampa Bay Chapter has honored leadership in philanthropy in Tampa Bay through its annual awards program since 1989. These awards celebrate the outstanding contribution of time, leadership and financial support of a special group of community members and organizations who set new benchmarks of excellence in the acts of giving and volunteering.

Click here to download the 2026 NPD Informational Packet for more information on categories, criteria, judging guidelines, and FAQs.

Philanthropist of the Year

Presented to an individual or family with a proven record of exceptional generosity to a variety of philanthropic causes and who, through direct financial support, has demonstrated outstanding civic and charitable responsibility and encourages others to take philanthropic leadership roles in the community.

• Evidence of direct gift support and its impact on your organization.
• Evidence of encouragement and motivation given to others to take leadership roles in philanthropy.
• Description of participation and financial support to other non-profits in the community.
• Evidence of philanthropic support to innovative approaches to solving problems.

Philanthropic Corporation of the Year

Presented to a corporation or corporate foundation that has demonstrated outstanding commitment through financial support and volunteerism, encouraging and motivating others to take philanthropic leadership roles in the community.

• Evidence of direct gift support and a description of its impact.
• Evidence of encouragement and motivation given to others to take leadership roles in philanthropy.
• Description of participation and grant support to other non-profits in the community.

Gayle Sierens Volunteer of the Year in Philanthropy

Presented to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills in coordinating groups of volunteers for major fundraising projects. The recipient should demonstrate exceptional skills coordinating and motivating groups of volunteers for fundraising projects and other initiatives for the benefit of charitable institutions and commitment to the advancement of philanthropy.

• Description of time, effort, and commitment to cause.
• Evidence of success in recruiting and motivating other volunteers.
• Description of impact on non-profit organization’s projects or initiatives.

Philanthropic Partner of the Year
Presented to a business with 100 employees or less OR a service organization that has demonstrated outstanding commitment through financial support and volunteerism and encourages and motivates others to take philanthropic leadership roles in the community.

• Evidence of direct gift support and a description of its impact.
• Evidence of encouragement and motivation given to others to take leadership roles in philanthropy.
• Description of participation and grant support to other non-profits in the community.
• Evidence of quality of leadership and organizational ability in fundraising campaigns.
• Description of time, effort, and financial commitment.
• Description of fundraising goals achieved by service organization.
• Description of participation in other community non-profit organizations.

Youth in Philanthropy

Presented to an individual or youth organization (18 years old and younger) that has demonstrated outstanding commitment to volunteerism and fundraising for the benefit of charitable institutions.

• Description of the impact of his/her involvement.
• Description of specific achievements accomplished through the youth’s efforts including hours and length of service.
• Description of participation in other community non-profit organizations.

Elements of a strong nomination

• Nominee clearly meets award category requirements in which they have been nominated.
• The primary focus should be on Tampa Bay efforts. National and/or international philanthropic involvements will be appropriately considered, but will not substitute for local involvement.
• Describe how this person/organization has made a difference in Tampa Bay. Cite tangible and quantifiable examples of the nominee’s impact to the community. Discuss evidence of dedication, innovation, creativity and vision; include how the nominee inspires and motivates others to act charitably.
• Add details and include hard data of direct support, including the financial contributions, volunteer activities, number of people impacted, outcomes, etc. Generate excitement and enthusiasm for your nominee. Share an inspirational story or anecdotal information; be descriptive.
• Focus on ongoing activities and overall efforts.
• Research what your nominee is doing with other groups; encourage other groups to also submit a nomination for your nominee.
• Submit your nomination as though the judging panel does not know your nominee – they may not! Be as specific and detailed as possible.

CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT A NOMINATION

Past Award Recipients - Click Here to see previous Winners
Frequently Asked Questions - Click Here to see the FAQ Page