REGISTRATION IS OPEN

Celebrate the people and organizations making a difference in our community.

Join AFP Greater Madison for National Philanthropy Day 2026, a special celebration of the generosity, leadership, and community spirit that make meaningful change possible.

This is an opportunity to gather with fellow fundraisers, nonprofit leaders, community partners, philanthropists, and friends to recognize the people and organizations whose commitment to giving back strengthens our community.

Come for the celebration. Stay for the connections. Leave inspired by what philanthropy makes possible.

Thursday, November 12, 2026
11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

The Edgewater Hotel
1001 Wisconsin Place
Madison, WI 53703

REGISTER TODAY

Be part of the celebration

In November, we'll come together to recognize the people and organizations whose generosity helps create a stronger, more connected community. National Philanthropy Day is more than an awards program. It's a chance to pause, celebrate philanthropy's impact, and connect with the people helping move our community forward.

What you can look forward to:

✨ Celebrate our 2026 Honorees
Join us as we recognize individuals and organizations whose generosity, leadership, and commitment to our community make a difference.

🤝 Connect with your community
Build relationships and reconnect with colleagues, nonprofit leaders, philanthropists, and community partners from across the Madison area.

💡 Be inspired by philanthropy in action
Hear stories of generosity and impact and celebrate the many ways philanthropy creates opportunity, connection, and positive change.

🍽️ Enjoy lunch and conversation
Lunch will be served before the program, with time to connect and network with fellow attendees after the celebration.

2026 Honorees

Coming soon!

We'll soon announce the individuals and organizations we'll recognize as our 2026 National Philanthropy Day Honorees.

Don't miss the opportunity to celebrate them—and the spirit of philanthropy that brings our community together.

Save your seat for National Philanthropy Day 2026.

Register today and join us for an afternoon of celebration, connection, and inspiration.

REGISTER NOW

AFP Greater Madison proudly presents National Philanthropy Day 2026. 

This year's honorees will have demonstrated exceptional dedication, compassion, and leadership, inspiring us all to make a difference in the lives of others. Their tireless efforts and generous spirits have not only transformed countless lives but have also set a shining example of how actions can ripple out to create lasting change. Join us in celebrating their achievements and expressing our deepest appreciation for their invaluable contributions.

What Is National Philanthropy Day?

National Philanthropy Day is a special day set aside on the fifteenth of November. The purpose of this day is to recognize the great contributions of philanthropy—and those people active in the philanthropic community—to the enrichment of our world.

NPD was originally conceived and organized by Douglas Freeman in the 1980s, and the first official events were held in 1986, following President Reagan's signing of the NPD proclamation. The day provides an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of giving and all that it has made possible. NPD celebrates the endless daily contributions individuals and organizations across the world make to countless causes and missions. 

How does AFP Greater Madison celebrate National Philanthropy Day?

Each year, we gather (in-person or virtually) to celebrate philanthropy in our local community. It is a chance to celebrate today the impact that philanthropy has on us all as a community. Nominations are received, and a panel of judges (individuals from the community) selects the annual honorees. 

Thank you to the sponsors who support our local celebration of National Philanthropy Day. Your sponsorship enables us to highlight the remarkable impact our local philanthropists have on the nonprofit sector.